( ENSPIRE Community Spotlight ) Young Jazz Inspires People of All Ages to Spread Positivity
ENSPIRE Contributor: Abigail Elcock
It’s never too late—or too early—to change the world, and no one encompasses that more than rising Canadian pop artist Jazmin Headley. At the young age of 9, Jazz has used her abilities as a singer, actress, and voice-over artist to share positivity with everyone she meets. When she wrote her first single “Dance With Me” in 2020 as a tribute to George Floyd, she shared a message of hope during a time of heartache and chaos. Jazz stars in CBC’s Ukulele U, a brand new and inclusive sing-a-long show.
Jazmin’s passion for positivity is clear not only in her singing but also in her community-focused giving. Last month, Jazmin released her re-imagination of Michael Jackson’s classic song “We Are The World.” Shortly after the release, the young pop star performed her new version live at the 2022 HUG 5K hosted by Meagan’s HUG. Not only did Jazz inspire the hearts and minds of attendees, but she will also donate 20% of all proceeds from “We Are The World” to Meagan’s HUG’s fundraiser “Hope for Ukraine.” Jazmin also has a history of giving charitably on her birthday. For her 8th birthday, Jazz raised more than $1200 for SickKids.
ENSPIRE was thrilled to ask the rising pop star some questions about her incredible passion for positivity in her community.
How did your love for music start?
My love for music started at 3 years old. I would listen to Michael Jackson, Pentatonix, and Katy Perry all day and before bedtime. So pretty much listen to music 24/7. It was a sound I could not get enough of.
How has singing and performing helped you connect with people?
Singing and performing have helped me connect with folks that love meaningful songs that represent something in their life or have a great meaning. When I sing those songs, it brings focus and strength. By performing, I meet a lot of different folks, learn new things, and we always connect through the love of performing and/or singing.
What is your favorite part about being a young performing artist?
Definitely being on set. There is always a ton of candy! All of my favorites include on-stage performing when I’m singing, traveling, and learning new things.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted you as a young, community-focused artist?
COVID actually didn’t impact me negatively. I started singing and performing during COVID to make people happy and to keep myself happy and focused.
You’ve already fundraised for a variety of charities, organizations, and causes. How do you find these causes, and what about them is the most important to you?
I find my causes based on needs and what my heart tells me where I feel most or more help is needed. I always choose a charity that supports children, homelessness, and communities that are lacking the most essential that are needed, such as people without mobility or wheelchairs, especially for children, as most times we get overlooked. I always put myself in a position as a child in need, and I always tell myself this is what I would love for someone to help me with. Then I become that person. Taking action, I sing and people listen, so I get my message across that way.
Most important to me is a charity organization that supports children and people in great need, such as the Bounty Foundation in Jamaica. The Bounty foundation provides a variety of support to those in need of food, clothing, and wheelchairs. The Bounty Foundation donates based on the needs of people, so everyone gets help. Seniors, families, and children especially.
You already have young fans who look up to you and love what you do! How does it feel to have the support of your fans? What does your community mean to you?
I haven’t accepted the fact that I have fans as I see myself only as Jazz. Once people get to know me, they realize I’m just a fun kid. I appreciate the love and support from everyone as I do this for not only myself but also everyone that my music can help as well as children my age that have dreams, inspiring them to accomplish their dreams as long as they put their minds to it and work hard. Community means the world to me as I see the world as my community, and I try to reach out as much as I can.
We all can’t wait to see where you go in life and what you do next, Jazzy! How can people find your music and join your community?
I’m currently working on my new EP to be released this summer 2022 as well as working with MGM studios on a film, so people can keep updated at @realjazzj on my Instagram where I post all my updates!
Jazmin Headley’s humility shines through in all of her responses. Jazz’s infectious passion, generosity, and example have already made a profound impact on the world around her. She will no doubt continue to inspire people everywhere with her voice and message. Be sure to listen to Jazmin’s rendition of “We Are The World,” which is now available on all platforms!
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