Prenicia Clifton
Jabarri and the Power of Speaking Up
by Prenicia Clifton
Jabari and the Power of Speaking Up is a powerful story-meets-workbook experience that helps youth find and use their voice. In the first half, readers follow Jabari as he learns to stand up for a friend with the help of Victor the Voice. In the second half, the book transforms into an interactive workbook where youth practice real-life skills, build confidence, and learn how to speak up, support others, and make a difference.
Read the story. Practice the skills. Become the voice.
Jabari and the Power of Speaking Up: A Story + Workbook for Real-Life Courage
What does it look like when a young person finds their voice—and actually uses it?
Jabari and the Power of Speaking Up is a transformative learning experience designed to do more than tell a story. It equips youth with the confidence, language, and practical tools to stand up for themselves and others in real-life situations.
In the first half of the book, readers are drawn into a relatable and emotionally powerful story. Jabari faces a difficult situation when he sees his friend being bullied. Like many young people, he feels unsure, scared, and conflicted about what to do. That’s when Victor the Voice appears—a strong, empowering superhero who helps Jabari understand that courage isn’t about being loud, but about doing what’s right, even when it’s hard.
Through vivid illustrations and meaningful dialogue, students witness Jabari’s growth from hesitation to action. They see the impact of one voice—and how speaking up can protect, support, and inspire others.
Then, the learning deepens.
The second half of the book transforms into an interactive workbook, intentionally designed to move students from passive readers to active participants. Youth are guided through structured reflection, skill-building exercises, and hands-on activities that help them:
Practice what to say in difficult situations
Identify safe adults and trusted support systems
Build confidence in their decision-making
Develop empathy and awareness of others
Learn safe and appropriate ways to intervene
This dual format makes the book especially powerful in educational settings. It doesn’t just align with social-emotional learning standards—it actively reinforces them through application.
Why Schools Choose This Book
Educators, counselors, and youth program leaders are constantly looking for tools that are both engaging and effective. This book delivers both.
Standards-Aligned SEL Content: Supports competencies like self-awareness, social awareness, responsible decision-making, and relationship skills
Bullying Prevention & Intervention: Provides clear, age-appropriate strategies for real-life situations
Culturally Relevant & Inclusive: Features diverse characters that reflect the lived experiences of many students, especially Black and Brown youth
Ready-to-Use Resource: Functions as both a read-aloud and an activity-based curriculum tool
Promotes Student Voice & Agency: Encourages youth to see themselves as leaders and change-makers
Whether used in classrooms, small groups, after-school programs, or counseling sessions, this book creates space for meaningful conversations and lasting impact.
More Than a Book—A Movement
At its core, Jabari and the Power of Speaking Up is about shifting how young people see themselves. It reminds them that their voice is not just something they have—it’s something they can use to create change.
Because when one child finds their voice,
they don’t just change their own story…
they can change someone else’s too.
Prenicia Clifton is an empathetic, engaged, and analytical leader who believes that the heart and mind should lead together. She integrates emotional intelligence with strategic thinking, approaching leadership with both compassion and intentionality. Her core values—wellness, safety, and resilience—are foundational to how she builds teams, cultivates culture, and drives meaningful impact. Prenicia’s physical and mental health disabilities have profoundly shaped her leadership journey. Living with chronic pain and navigating mental health challenges has given her a deeper capacity for empathy, patience, and perspective. These experiences have framed her understanding of strength—not as perfection or performance, but as the ability to lead authentically, adapt with grace, and uplift others while honoring one’s own limitations. Rather than seeing her conditions as barriers, Prenicia views them as gifts that ground her leadership in humanity and humility. They’ve taught her to prioritize wellness in her work, create inclusive spaces, and lead with vulnerability and courage. Her lived experience allows her to connect meaningfully with others, advocate for equity with conviction, and remain resilient in the face of adversity. As a leader, Prenicia is committed to collaboration over control, growth over perfection, and authenticity over image. She brings a future-focused mindset, ensuring that every decision contributes to a culture of equity, belonging, and sustainability. Her leadership is not just about reaching goals—it’s about transforming systems through intention, care, and connection.
The Brain Superheroes are a powerful group of heroes who help children understand and strengthen their mental health, emotional resilience, and self-confidence. Each superhero represents important life skills and emotional tools that empower young people to face life's challenges. Among them are heroes like Monica of Mindfulness, who teaches the power of being present; Victor the Voice, who encourages speaking up against bullying; Phoenix the Fearless, who guides youth through facing fears; and Shekinah, Princess of Glory and Hope, who inspires bravery and optimism.
Zoe's Story of Finding Calm, Focus, and Confidence
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