Jamal Givens

Jamal Givens, founder and CEO of JG Enterprises, is a highly sought-after speaker, trainer and consultant in the field of prevention and mental health. Why? Because he loves to help people. His heart lies especially in helping youth, and those who work with youth, to bring out their best and reach their potential. Jamal’s dynamic personality, public speaking skills and expertise, combined with his singing/theatrical talents, positivity, and his ability to be relatable, make him an effective and engaging motivational speaker and educator.

Jamal completed his bachelor’s degree in sociology, with a minor in criminal justice, at the University of Arizona. He earned his master’s in educational leadership in human affairs at Northern Arizona University. He is a certified trainer (with “train the trainers” certification) in numerous evidence-based programs including prevention of substance abuse, bullying, and suicide and wellness promotion.

Jamal’s strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills have underpinned his ability to mobilize groups, teams and organizations, and to get results. He was the director for prevention services at CODAC Behavioral Health Services in Tucson, Ariz., for 20 years. From 2013 to 2018, Jamal served as the CEO/president for the nonprofit Arizonans for Prevention, a statewide network of substance abuse prevention coalitions, providers and supporters encouraging the development, implementation and sustainability of quality prevention services throughout the state.

In 2016, Jamal founded his own speaking, training and consulting services, JG Enterprises, to engage youth, schools, community organizations and businesses in mental health awareness and training. In addition, he successfully led the year-long effort in the LPKNC neighborhood coalition applying for nonprofit status in 2019. He currently serves as CEO and director of the LPKNC prevention services that continue to combat the use of alcohol, marijuana and prescription drugs among youth residing in South Tucson. Jamal has a proven track record in successfully applying for multimillion-dollar grant awards, which have been the sole source of his program funding throughout his career.

Jamal currently resides in Tucson, Ariz., with his wife and two children. In his free time, he enjoys singing karaoke, watching movies and spending time with his family.