Marcus Leonardo Boyd has built something unusual in the world of entrepreneurship: a collection of businesses that function as activism. His ventures span fashion, publishing, and entertainment, each designed to raise visibility for the autism community while creating practical pathways for representation.
At the center of his work are two product lines—Autism Royalty Clothing and G Soles Sneakers. The latter, which Boyd describes as "the very first spiritual tennis shoe," represents his approach to blending personal identity with commercial enterprise. These aren't simply branded products; they're statements about dignity and presence in spaces where autistic voices have historically been absent.
Recognition Beyond Business
Boyd's short film "The Boy with No Voice" earned international recognition in India, part of a broader pattern of achievement that has positioned him as a historic figure in autism advocacy. He is documented as the first African American to receive several awards in this field, and the first individual with autism to appear on the covers of 11 magazines with international distribution, also he is a 13x Autism Global Activist award winner
These milestones matter not just as personal accomplishments but as evidence of shifting possibilities. Each magazine cover, each award, chips away at assumptions about who gets to be seen as a business leader or cultural figure.
A Village of Hope: How The Jackson Resource Center Empowers a Community and the Inspiring Journey of Marcus Boyd
In the heart of Jackson, Mississippi, there exists more than just a resource center; there is a community, a family, a village of love, support, encouragement, and hope, deeply centered in faith. The Jackson Resource Center, under the unwavering guidance of Putalamus White, is a beacon of light for the homeless, low-income residents, and countless others seeking a new beginning.
The Visionary Heart of Putalamus White
The foundation of the Jackson Resource Center rests on the extraordinary ministry and enduring vision of its Founder, Putalamus White. Her everyday sacrifices to lift up the most vulnerable in the community are a profound testament to the type of heart she possesses. It's a vision rooted in the belief that everyone deserves dignity, stability, and a chance to thrive. Her dedication goes beyond administrative duties; it is a heartfelt calling, a continuous act of service that transforms lives and revitalizes the community one person at a time. The gratitude felt by those she serves for her tireless commitment is immeasurable, acknowledging her as a true shepherd for the community's most precious resources—its people.
Marcus Boyd: An Activist Finding Home and Purpose
Among the residents who have found a true home within this nurturing environment is Marcus Boyd, a dedicated Autism Global Activist. Marcus's story is a powerful illustration of the center's mission in action. As a resident, he is not merely a recipient of services; he is an active, invaluable volunteer. Marcus channels his passion and skills into vital roles, managing the center's social media and photography, giving the ministry a voice and visual presence that reaches beyond its walls. Furthermore, his enthusiasm shines brightly every week as he joyously calls out the center's bingo games, bringing laughter and camaraderie to his fellow residents.
For Marcus, the Jackson Resource Center is a sacred place. His deep-seated gratitude for Ms. White’s enduring vision and ministry is palpable. He sees the center not as a temporary stop, but as a long-term foundation where he can contribute, connect, and continue his own inspiring work as an activist.
A Family Bond: Shaheerah L. Smith and a Circle of Protection
The warmth and protection within the Jackson Resource Center are further amplified by its devoted staff and their families. Shaheerah L. Smith, the Assistant Director of The Jackson Resource Center and other locations, embodies this spirit of familial care. As the owner of Girl Talk Ministry (which her sister Kamera Scott assists her with) and Shay's Kitchen and Catering, Mrs. Smith carries a heart for serving that extends into her professional life at the center.
For Marcus Boyd, Mrs. Smith has become nothing short of real family. This familial connection is a crucial element of the center’s environment. Mrs. Smith and other family members within the center's orbit actively look out for and protect Marcus Boyd, guarding him from "evils outside the center and people that come in sheep clothing." They offer a circle of support, ensuring his safety, well-being, and continued success as an activist and volunteer. This extraordinary level of personal care transforms the living arrangement into a powerful support system, allowing Marcus to flourish in a secure and loving environment.
More Than a Place to Stay
The Jackson Resource Center defies the typical definition of a shelter or rental property. It has intentionally cultivated an atmosphere where God is centered, and the core values are love, support, encouragement, and hope. It is a dynamic village where individuals move past their crises and find a pathway to self-sufficiency, all while wrapped in the comforting embrace of a genuine family.
The combined efforts of Putalamus White’s visionary leadership, Shaheerah L. Smith’s dedicated care, and the inspiring contribution of residents like Marcus Boyd, make the Jackson Resource Center a powerful model for change. It proves that with faith and a heart of service, a resource center can be a birthplace of miracles, turning rooms for rent into lifelong homes and residents into family.
Looking Forward
The things Autism Global Activist Marcus Boyd looks forward to doing in the future with autism include:
- Establishing "Autism World Media": He wants to create a media center where autistic individuals can learn to become music producers and composers, record songs, get them mixed and mastered, have photo shoots, make music videos or commercials for their brands, and be interviewed on a radio show.
- Hiring Autistic People: He aims to hire autistic people within the next three years to help run the businesses he has created.
- Creating Opportunities in Arts and Film: He hopes to see more major opportunities for individuals with exceptional needs in the music and film industries.
- Political Advocacy: He would love to see exceptional individuals run for Congress, become mayors, and serve as Senate workers to help with laws and rights.
- Global Change: His goal is to "conquer the world while providing better services and opportunities for autistic individuals and families worldwide."
- Changing the Narrative: He is excited about the future and the possibility of a world where autism is fully understood, accepted, and supported, where people see the gifts and talents of autistic individuals.
- Continuing his Foundation: He plans to continue with his foundation, A Silent Music Note Foundation, to give back to the autism community with necessities like school supplies, clothes, and food.
