Meet Jayden Watkins of Higher Is Waiting Nonprofit Organization

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jayden Watkins

Hi Jayden, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Ever since I was little, it was clear I had a calling. My father, a football coach, always tells the story of how I’d come home from church, throw on my football jersey like it was a preaching robe, and preach to my stuffed animals — repeating everything I had just heard at service. I was only 5 years old.

At age 9, I gave my first sermon. At 11, I wrote my first book, which was officially released when I turned 13. Despite facing criticism — even from some family members who thought I was too young — I remained focused on the purpose God placed in my heart.

In March 2020, God gave me the vision to launch The Preferable Podcast. I had no idea the world was about to shut down due to COVID-19, but that timing allowed me to connect with listeners globally. Over the course of four seasons, the podcast has featured life-changing stories, celebrity guests, and messages of hope and purpose.

Most recently, in January 2024, I founded a nonprofit organization to educate, equip, and empower individuals of all backgrounds through faith-based events and essential resources.

There are many other accomplishments and milestones I’m grateful for along the way — but these moments are just a few that reflect how I got to where I am today. And I know this is only the beginning.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road.

From the very beginning, people said I was too young — even some family members criticized me and questioned my calling. I was often overlooked, underestimated, and even bullied for being different, for choosing to walk in purpose at such a young age.

Sin tried to lure me in with temptation, distractions, and doubts — like it does with many of us. But even in my weakest moments, I’ve learned that God’s strength shows up the most.

Starting and sustaining a nonprofit hasn’t been easy either. There have been real financial struggles. I’ve poured all of my personal money into it — and I still do — simply because I believe in the mission that much. There were times I didn’t know how we would make it through, but God always made a way.

This work isn’t about me — it’s about empowering others, helping people see their worth, and walking in the assignment God created me to do. The journey hasn’t always been easy — but it’s been worth it.

As you know, we’re big fans of Higher Is Waiting Nonprofit Organization. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
My organization, Higher Is Waiting, is a nonprofit founded in January 2024 with a mission to educate, equip, and empower individuals through faith-based events, mentorship, and essential resources. We specialize in uplifting youth and underserved communities — not just by preaching hope, but by putting action behind it.

We’re known for our impactful programs like EMPOWERED, which provides teens with spiritual guidance, mentorship, personalized Bibles, food, and community service opportunities. We’ve hosted career exploration sessions, community service days, and events where youth have come together to feed the homeless and serve those in need. Our programs don’t just inspire — they activate purpose. We’ve also led initiatives that provide blessing bags filled with hygiene products and snacks, hosted back-to-school drives, and provided opportunities for young people to find their voice and their purpose.

What sets us apart is our authenticity, consistency, and bold faith. We move when God says move, even if it means funding it out of my own pocket. Our heart-led, youth-driven leadership and our ability to connect with people where they are make this organization not just a brand, but a movement.

I’m most proud of the fact that we’re building something that lasts — planting seeds in the next generation. We’re not just giving out supplies or hosting events — we’re changing lives, one person at a time.

What I want readers to know is this: Higher Is Waiting isn’t just a name — it’s a declaration. No matter where you are in life, there’s more for you. There’s greater ahead. And we’re here to help you get there.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5–10 years, I believe the nonprofit and faith-based empowerment space will experience major growth and transformation. People are craving real, relatable leadership — especially young people. There’s a shift happening where youth voices are no longer being silenced — they’re being elevated, and organizations like Higher Is Waiting are paving the way for that.

We’ll see more digital outreach and virtual mentorship opportunities, especially as technology continues to shape how we connect and serve. I also believe there will be a stronger emphasis on mental health, purpose-driven leadership, and community impact — not just church within the four walls, but taking the message into schools, streets, and social media spaces.

Another trend I see is more collaboration between nonprofits, churches, schools, and local government, creating sustainable change rather than just short-term solutions. I truly believe purpose-focused organizations that are authentic, youth-centered, and rooted in faith will become leaders in addressing issues like poverty, identity, access to education, and community development.

Higher Is Waiting is ready to meet those changes head-on — staying ahead by staying grounded in purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jaydenwatkins.com/higher-is-waiting
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjaydenwatkins/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamjaydenwatkins/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQs4Q9umW7ddB20zZTPYi5w