Season 1 Episode 93
InnerG Unlmtd: Jillian Lenae Carew
“There’s tons of research to support the importance of Black educators, not just for children of color, but for non-children of color as well.”
Jillian Lenae Carew
Instruction Coach, Former School Leader, Principal and Teacher, Life Coach, Sneakerhead
“I was just being me, unapologetic about how I showed up as a Black woman in that space.”
Jillian Carew grew up on the south side of Chicago. Her mom relied on connections and fabrications to get her into better schools than her neighborhood provided, something she questioned even as a child. She went on to major in Math at UIUC but was lured into teaching via the Teach for America program that visited campus.
“Violence is young Black kids going to school for twelve years and receiving six years of education.” – Julian Bond, activist
Jillian began her teaching career in Vegas working mostly with Mexican students learning English. While the new scenery & environment presented challenges, she saw the progress in her students. She knew if they could do it, so could the kids in Chicago. When she returned home, kids gravitated toward her, being able to identify with her familiar swag and authenticity. Jillian spent a lot of time in good faith conforming to a system she thought she could change from within, only to learn speaking up & being herself gave her the same access. Through her company, InnerG UNLMTD, she helps students and parents achieve success authentically.
To stay informed, you can follow both Jillian and InnerG UNLMTD on Facebook and Instagram @JillianLenae and InnerG UNLMTD.
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