What’s up, I’m Ja’Mel Ashely.

Ja'Mel Ashely Ware is a dynamic visionary who seamlessly blends his talents as an entertainer, entrepreneur, and educator. Widely recognized for his significant contributions to entrepreneurship, HIV awareness, and reproductive health within the LGBQ and Trans community, Ja'Mel's work has made a lasting impact.

Ja'Mel's journey began at the early age of 7 when he became an HIV advocate, using his voice to educate and inspire others through public speaking. These early life experiences were enriched by his academic pursuits at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he earned a degree in Social Work. With a passion for entertainment and inclusivity, he later founded Intellectual Ratchet (IR), a Diversity and Inclusion Entertainment brand, marking the beginning of his entrepreneurial path. Ja'Mel is expanding his expertise by pursuing an MBA at Emory University's Goizueta Business School.

During his four years at THRIVE SS, Ja'Mel played a pivotal role in supporting young Black queer entrepreneurs committed to building socially responsible brands through Project Innovate, a micro-grants program. This experience profoundly influenced his dedication to empowering others.

Now, as the founder and managing partner of The IR Agency—where modern business meets people—Ja'Mel focuses on empowering organizations by bridging business acumen with social responsibility. The IR Agency provides transformative consultancy services that help organizations adopt a people-first mentality, ensuring they make a meaningful impact in leading businesses. With a vision of diversity-driven innovation for public health success, The IR Agency champions inclusivity and sets a new standard for excellence in consultancy services by unlocking potential through tailored, inclusive, and sustainable solutions.

Ja'Mel's community work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Urban Community Arts Network (UCAN) 'Spotlight Award' for his community contributions and developments, the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce 'Young Entrepreneur of the Year,' POZ Magazine's 'POZ 100 Transgender Advocates in HIV,' the ‘Hope Award’ from I Am Human, the ‘Pioneer of Resilience Award’ from Trans Life Awards, and the ‘Transgender Advocate Award’ from the Men's Engagement Network.

Living by the motto, "Live Life Whole. Be your complete self, and embrace life to the fullest," Ja'Mel exemplifies these principles in every facet of his life, continuing to inspire and mentor the next generation of thinkers and doers.

Ja’Mel is also the father of Sea Cannon and Heir Enéz, his pride and joy!