As I stepped into the bustling atmosphere of Syracuse University’s late on a Friday evening, I was immediately drawn to the vibrant display of creativity emanating from one corner. There, amidst the whirring of machinery and the clinking of tools, Jordan Pierre’s latest creation commanded attention: a collection of sweatshirts adorned with bold colors and shimmering rhinestones, each one a testament to his brand, .
In this hive of activity, Jordan Pierre ’23, G’24 stood out as a visionary entrepreneur, his passion evident in every stitch and detail of his creations. But his brand was more than just clothing; it was a beacon of unity, a rallying cry for those whose voices often go unheard.
“Amplify the voice of those that are unheard,” echoed his motto, emblazoned on every garment. And for Jordan, this was not just a slogan, but a mission—a mission to create a community where individuals could find belonging and connection amidst a sea of isolation.
“I realized that many of us feel alone at times, navigating spaces where we don’t feel understood,” he explained. “VOICE is where we find our tribe, where we refuse to remain silent.”
Jordan’s journey to national recognition began with a viral graduation speech that resonated with millions, challenging societal norms and advocating for change. His words reverberated across platforms, landing him features on , and even our own University News. Now, Jordan is determined to harness that attention and transform it into tangible support for students. “I’m working on creating a digital ecosystem,” he shared, “where every voice in our community can be heard, where we can come together to enact real change.”
Meaning VOICE is more than just a brand; it’s a community in the making. Events like the recent gathering at , a creative space in Syracuse, exemplify Jordan’s vision. Here, campus poets like Ariana Wilson come together to share their art, their words echoing with power and purpose. “Ariana Wilson, she’s a poet on campus,” Jordan explained, his eyes alight with pride. “Her poems are a force for empowerment, just like so many others here. I’m here to motivate them, to amplify their voices.”
As I left the maker space that evening, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by Jordan’s relentless dedication to creating a community where every voice matters—a community where, indeed, there are no destinations, only endless possibilities.
With no stopping in sight, Jordan led me to the place he calls home: a humble spot in Bed-Stuy in Brooklyn, New York. Here, amidst the bustling streets and vibrant culture, he found not just shelter, but the fertile ground where his dreams took root and flourished. “I’m not just an academic scholar,” he shared, his voice carrying the weight of his experiences. “I’m also from the hood. In many ways, I have intersectional experiences that shape my worldview.”
Now, standing at the intersection of his past and his present, Jordan is poised to give back to the community that molded him. A quick nod to the massive school drive he organized last summer, a testament to his unwavering commitment to uplifting the youth of Bed-Stuy. With 250 school bags distributed and a basketball tournament that brought neighbors together in celebration, Jordan’s message of unity echoed through the streets. “As a vessel,” he added, his gaze steady and resolute, “I serve those who seek genuine peace and connection.”
As we navigated the familiar streets of Bed-Stuy, Jordan’s presence illuminated the path ahead. In his eyes, I saw not just a man, but a beacon of hope for a community in need. As we parted ways, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by Jordan’s enduring spirit—a testament to the transformative power of community and the resilience of the human spirit.
Written By Elijah Brown ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications