Today we’d like to introduce you to Dorian Jordan
Hi Dorian, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Being part of the founding circle of the Wise Up to Rise Up Foundation has been an incredible experience. My role has been hands-on from the start—helping to build this foundation into a thriving, community-driven movement across the Gulf Coast. What began as a shared vision is now a platform that inspires people to see themselves as leaders and change-makers, often in ways they never thought possible. I’ve played a part in establishing our board of directors and building the momentum that’s helped us reach significant milestones in just one year.
My passion for empowering others extends beyond the foundation and into my work as an award-winning barber. I genuinely love what I do. There’s something amazing about helping someone who walks in feeling insecure about their hair. When I give them a fresh cut and see their eyes light up, it’s like flipping a switch. That moment when they catch a glimpse of themselves in the mirror and confidence washes over them is priceless. It’s more than just a new hairstyle; it’s more than just a fresh fade—it’s a shift in how they see themselves—a spark of empowerment that ignites from within. And that’s why I take confidence in the fact that all my cuts are pure—pure cuts. Just as I aim to inspire confidence in my clients with a razor-sharp hairline, I strive to empower the next generation through the Wise Up To Rise Up Foundation. Watching their faces light up as they begin to see their potential is what truly drives me.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Meeting the founder Khristopher Fields in college was a game-changer for me. His ambition changed my life. Together, we’ve overcome challenges that have shaped us into who we are today. Along the way, I’ve received recognition from the City of Houston, the Texas House of Representatives, and so many others who see the impact we’re making. But let me tell you—this recognition isn’t just about me. It’s about the mission of Wise Up to Rise Up Foundation.
Wise Up To Rise Up Foundation is genuinely making a difference in the lives of at-risk youth—especially those facing tough challenges like having incarcerated parents, experiencing domestic violence, or growing up in unstable home environments. Many of the struggles that often come with being part of families that fall below the federal poverty line are prevalent in these underserved communities. By focusing on these areas, we’re nurturing young visionaries and helping them realize their potential.
We’ve teamed up with campuses within IDEA Public Schools, Aldine Independent School District (ISD), and Houston Independent School District (ISD) to expand our outreach and create an even bigger impact in the community. Through these collaborations, we’ve connected with over 300 students— inspiring them to strive for excellence, embrace civic responsibilities, and become active members of their communities. Our efforts have been recognized with several awards recognizing their impact, with even more opportunities on the horizon.
We believe in inspiring young leaders from historically underserved communities to see themselves as capable of achieving prestigious awards—like the Presidential Educational Excellence Award, the Presidential Educational Achievement Award, the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, and the Congressional Youth Award. By fostering a supportive environment, we encourage these individuals to pursue their dreams. As a result, several young leaders have been honored with Bronze, Silver and Gold Medals and Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Office of the President of the United States for their outstanding contributions to community service.
In our first year alone, the Wise Up To Rise Up Foundation has achieved an impressive array of prestigious honors—showcasing the impact we’ve made in such a short time. We’ve received both the Presidential Bronze Medal and the Presidential Silver Medal from the Executive Office of the President of the United States—along with formal recognition from the Governor of Texas. The Texas House of Representatives has acknowledged our efforts, and we’ve received proclamations and accolades from four mayors across three cities in the greater Gulf Coast region of Texas. We’ve received certificates of recognition from a Harris County Commissioner and a Houston City Councilwoman, highlighting our dedication to the community. We’ve also been awarded the Robert L. Frost Award from Frost Elementary in the Houston Independent School District for inspiring the next generation. These honors showcase the real impact we’re making in empowering young leaders and affirm our mission to help create a brighter future for all.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At our core, Wise Up to Rise Up is dedicated to giving kids from underserved communities the tools and inspiration they need to break free from negative influences. Our leadership programs, motivational talks, and hands-on support are designed to keep them engaged, even when life tries to pull them down. We teach them that knowledge, inspiration, and strong ethics are the keys to rising above their circumstances. We’re here to help these young leaders envision brighter futures and recognize the power they have within themselves.
We’ve also formed strong partnerships with local sponsors like Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, and Raising Cane’s. These companies have generously stepped up to support our mission by coordinating food donations to community centers. Thanks to these partnerships, we’ve directly donated over $2,000 in food to places like God’s Point Mission Center in Greenspoint.
Being part of the Founders Circle has given me a greater perspective on the power of innovative and visionary thinking, ambition, and the importance of focusing on the bigger picture—not just for our generation, but for the countless generations that will follow and be impacted by our actions. This experience has revealed something far greater than myself, and I’m truly inspired. I’ve seen firsthand how kids from all walks of life change their view on learning and success. I’ve seen the impact that inspiring the next generation can have, and I truly believe that the Wise Up to Rise Up Foundation is going to be around for a long time, impacting more kids, families, and communities than anyone in this generation can possibly imagine.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
At Wise Up to Rise Up Foundation, we’re on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers—visionaries and project leaders—who are passionate about helping kids in underserved communities see themselves as award-worthy. We want people who are ambitious about inspiring these kids to work towards a lifetime of achievement.
And as you know, I’m also an award-winning, licensed, professional barber, so be sure to check out my barber page on IG @MJ_tha_barber. If you’re in Houston, come get a fresh cut from me! I love seeing the excitement in my clients’ eyes when they leave feeling great. Plus, everything I do ties into a bigger picture and a mission to make a real difference in the world. Let’s work together to inspire the next generation!
Pricing:
- 250 | Sponsership
- 500 | Sponsership
- 750 | Sponsership
- 1K | Sponsership
Contact Info:
- Website: https://WISEUPTORISEUP.COM
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiseupriseupofficial/
- Other: Mj@wiseuptoriseup.com
Image Credits
Wise Up To Rise Up Foundation
State of Texas — Office of the Governor
City of Houston — Office of the Mayor
City of Houston — Office of City Council
City of Manvel — Office of the Mayor
Harris County Pct 1 — Office of the Commissioner
