Meet Our Founder

Jakievia Broughton is a Pensacola, Florida native who spent most of her childhood and early adulthood rooted in the values of community service, mentorship, and compassion. Now residing in Dallas, Texas, she carries those values with her in every aspect of her work. From a young age, Jakievia participated in youth programs and mentoring initiatives that helped shape her character and fueled her desire to uplift those around her. Even with limited resources, she consistently demonstrated selflessness, generosity, and a deep awareness of those in need-traits strengthened by being raised in a family that believed in giving back and creating meaningful change.

Seeking broader experiences, she attended the University of South Alabama, where she earned a
B.A. in Criminal Justice. Her career began as a juvenile probation officer, a role that revealed her
passion for youth development and social services. Inspired by the challenges she witnessed and the
potential she saw in young people, Jakievia founded her own mentoring program to support youth in
every area of life.

Her personal experiences-educational opportunities, moments of transformation, adversity, failure, and success-led her to create a safe, empowering space for young girls impacted by life's challenges. Guided by the motto Girls Reaching, Achieving, Committing with Effort, she believes every girl can achieve a positive outcome when surrounded by support.

In 2020, Jakievia stepped into full-time leadership as Executive Director of G.R.A.C.E Mentoring, deepening her commitment to the community. Through school partnerships, collaborations with community centers and nonprofits, local business involvement, community service projects, public workshops, alumni engagement, and parent/family support, G.R.A.C.E Mentoring strengthens communities while fostering meaningful relationships and providing vital resources to girls and their families.