Empowering Students with Purpose, Power, and Possibility

With over a decade of experience engaging youth across the country, Jefferson Noël delivers high-impact keynotes and workshops that blend education, empowerment, and entertainment — helping students rise with confidence, direction, and belief.

Relatable. Real. Results.

Students don’t need another lecture. They need someone who speaks their language, sees their struggle, and challenges them to grow.

With a background that spans barbershops, college campuses, and national TV, I combine lived experience with practical tools to deliver programs that leave a lasting impact.

✅ Over a decade working with youth across the U.S.
✅ Trusted by GEAR UP, TRIO, and college readiness programs
✅ Rooted in humor, honesty, and hope

Program Offerings

🎤 Keynote Speeches
High-impact, motivational keynotes that inspire students to take ownership of their future.

🧠 Interactive Workshops (1–8 hours)
Hands-on, engaging sessions tailored to your students’ needs — from short workshops to full-day intensives.

📚 Book Talks & Author Q&A
Dynamic presentations based on GO, Manual for College Success, or Dollars & Scholars, with real-time audience interaction.

🎙️ Podcast Creation Experience (With Students!)
Students learn storytelling, public speaking, interviewing, and media skills by developing and recording their own podcast episodes.

🧩 Signature Activities & Experiences
Immersive group activities like:

  • Mirror Moment – self-worth affirmation

  • Puzzle Purpose – accountability & connection

  • Dear Future Me – reflective writing for vision-building

    I can also design a custom activity specifically for your program's goals, themes, or student needs. Let’s create something unforgettable — together.

🎓 Summer Bridge & College Readiness Intensives
Prepare students for academic, emotional, and social success as they transition into or through college.

💼 Life & Leadership Bootcamps
Short-term programs focused on decision-making, initiative, and skill development for personal and professional growth.

📈 Professional Development for Staff & Mentors
Training on how to connect, engage, and lead first-gen, underserved, and high-risk student populations.

📖 Curriculum Integration
Lesson plans and speaking content aligned with your program’s educational goals.

Specialized Topics Include:

  • Leadership & Influence

  • Public Speaking & Communication

  • Taking Initiative & Self-Motivation

  • Power of Vulnerability

  • College & Career Development

  • Building Transferable Skills

  • Confidence, Clarity & Purpose

  • Academic Grit & Time Management

  • Financial Literacy (Dollars & Scholars)

  • Community Engagement & Civic Identity

  • Personal Branding & Storytelling

I didn’t grow up knowing what I wanted to be… I just knew I didn’t want to stay stuck.

From dropping out of college to teaching at a nationally ranked university. From fearing my voice to speaking on international stages.
It didn’t happen overnight — but it started with a decision to keep going.

Click to learn more about my first-gen story.

My First-Gen Journey

Testimonials

  • "Speaking to over 80 teens, Jefferson struck a chord that resonated deeply with both youth and staff."

    Anith Benjamin, MPA

    Director of Teen Initiatives

    Boys & Girls Club of Broward County

  • "His vulnerability helped students reflect, confront their weaknesses, and grow with confidence."

    Dr. Lisa Gonzalez

    Director, Miami Gear Up

    Miami Dade College

  • "Jeff isn’t far removed from the students, so he relates — but his depth of experience shows the path in a powerful way."

    Dr. Anthony DeSantis

    Associate Vice President, Student Affairs

    Saint Leo University

  • "His speech was engaging, thought provoking, and challenged the process in an engaging way."

    Dr. Lauren Kaplan

    Student Life Advisor

    Northern Virginia Community - Annandale Campus

  • "Professor Noel broke down complex ideas with ease and created a rare space where students felt safe to be vulnerable."

    Sofia Lakucci

    Italian Program Representative

    Programma Doppio Diploma, Mater Academy

#GearUpWorks #TRIOWorks