We had the good fortune of connecting with Jada Pegram and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jada, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Free Legend brings awarness and a voice for the forgotten and often dismissed individuals in the criminal justice system. The judicial system is supposed to be about rehabilitation for those who have taken a wrong turn in life, however that is far from the case . While serving time , these individuals are neglected , abused , mistreated and targeted by those who are responsible for their “safety”. These officials are almost never brought to justice and families of the abused and deceased are left with unanswered questions. Those who make it to release are faced with many other obstacles and hardships. Rather than being accepted back into society to better themselves ,inmates are faced with; judgement, difficulties in securing a job , lack of financial aid to further their education and lack of access to much needed mental health care . All of these factors contribute to the high recidivism rate in this country. Statistically speaking minorities are the most affected community by these challenges.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The path of an Entrepreneur is never easy. We face many obstacles to gain the approval and support of our audience. We have to not only be our own motivators , researchers , marketing team and financial support but tackle everyday with an optimistic approach in hopes to getting closer to our goals. There is no clear path to take to become succesful just trial and error. I have been turned around and let down countless of times. I had no idea where to start or how to begin but knew i had to get up and keep going. Running a buisness is more than having face value. There is paperwork, legitimacy requirements, and countless expenses that many people don’t talk about. In addition to the many obstacles, my family and I still have to deal with the emotional toll it takes to carry out the vision of someone who is no longer physically with them. Even today in 2023 as Free Legend tries to spread awarness we are faced with censorship and backlash trying to stifle our voice and limit our reach. There is still more for us to learn and more challenges to overcome. This is only year two of the continuation of Free Legend but we take it day by day.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The city of Atlanta is extremely diverse and open to change. I encourge everyone to support many black owned buisnesses such as “Sluty Vegan” owned by the incredible pinky cole, and shop at the beehive for local and handmade designs. The beehive boutique collective is owned by the amazing Malene Davis. There are many supportive events such as the Black Runway Experience that showcases black owned brands. The BRE was created by inspiring individuals Angel Turner and Don Allen. I also encourge everyone to support businesses that hire felons and individuals in transition centers such as Tacos and Tequila and many others

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and formost I would like to give praise to God for making a way and providing opportunities for my family and I to help others. Next I would like to give praise to my Late brother and Free Legend creator Marcus Vashawn Pegram. Marcus had the vision and started to bring his ideas to fruition back in fall of 2019. After his passing, with the help of family and friends, we are able to continue his work knowing he wouldn’t want his legacy to end with him. Thank you to shoutoutinterviews for the opportunity to spread awarness about Free Legend and the work we do!

Website: www.FreeLegendBrand.com

Instagram: FreeLegendMVP

Facebook: FreeLegendBrand

Image Credits
Pop Up Shop Photos by : Amos Hudson Carnival Campaign Photos by : Bit Riot

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.