HOW IT ALL STARTED FOR JU
Ju grew up in Decatur GA, around the streets of Glenwood Rd. Growing up with difficult struggles and influences of the hood but always had the dream to become something bigger and bring something positive back to the hood. Growing up as a child Ju would wait until everyone was asleep to stay up and watch comedy movies and was inspired by classics such as Martin, Friday, and Def Comedy Jam on VHS tapes. That soon led to him being known as the comedian at Columbia High School.
People always ask him where did the name come from? Well, the name was given to him by his Uncle Bud who died when Ju was young. The name “Ju” came from hustling and making a way out of no way, attitude. Shortly after the passing of his uncle, his best friend, Francheska died. She was incredibly special to him as well. Ju, Francheska, and Delrico were all best friends. Franchescka, and her family weren’t as fortunate to have the nice clothes and shoes, so Ju and Delrico would sneak their best clothes from home and give them to Franchescka. The other kids would crack jokes on Franchescka, then Ju would intervene and revert jokes back onto the other kids. Shortly after their Kindergarten school year started, Franchescka was killed along with her brother by a drunk driver one night after school. At an early age, death was already something that Ju had experienced. From those life changing events the name Ju and his comedic gifts led him into comedy.
Ju grew up and later became a Father which he says is his biggest accomplishment yet. He fought hard for custody rights for his daughter, and thanks to his Attorney Latonya Askew, and the support from his family, and friends, he won joint custody. Soon after that he produced his own documentary on his child support situation and the court system. He later explained that the pursuit to chasing his passion and purpose in comedy wasn’t easy, but it was very much worth it. While going through life he loves to encourage others to put God first and believe in yourself and your dreams will manifest. Being happy and uplifting people, making them forget about their problems in life, has always been his motive and message. From deceased family, and friends, to other life obstacles – Ju has used it as fuel, his mix of pain and hurt, to light the fire toward success in his career and lifetime goals. Take every lesson as a blessing! Stay focused on what matters! Never give up!
While going through life, he’s felt every emotion you could imagine. He was very depressed at times, but he always kept his faith in God. “Keep your focus on God and the plan he has for you and he will align everything for you”, he stated. Ju knew one day he would be big, so he made a promise to God and himself, that he would never belittle, talk down, or go into a mind state of grandiosity.
“Always remain humble, and thankful for everything. Live Love and Laugh be blessed.
Peace…
