One-on-One with Jejuan Smith

There’s a quiet power in those who remain consistent. Jejuan Smith is one of those people. From the courts of Winston-Salem, North Carolina to the sets of major Hollywood films, his journey is a testament to ambition, faith, and intentional growth.

A multi-hyphenate talent—actor, model, athlete, stunt performer, filmmaker, and entrepreneur—Jejuan’s foundation was laid early through his passion for sports. With a full football scholarship and a background in basketball, he developed the discipline and drive that would carry him through each chapter of his evolving career.

He began modeling at age 16 for a local clothing line, soon appearing in music videos and television productions. From background roles on Drop Dead Diva to stunt work in Ant-Man, Sleepless Nights, and the Atlanta series, Jejuan's ascent in the entertainment industry has been steady and strategic. His directorial debut, Walk A Mile, which he wrote, starred in, and brought to life alongside a cast of fellow creatives, has earned accolades on the independent film circuit and solidified his voice as a storyteller.

Building a Brand That Serves

While many chase celebrity, Jejuan is chasing legacy. His most recent venture—his own bottled water brand—is rooted in a deep desire to do something rare, meaningful, and sustainable.

“Yes, [Jaden Smith] and some other brains came together and created the good idea of JUST Water. I think it's dope and positive for our world. My motivation was simply wanting to be different—not just from my peers—but because it's a low percentage of people actually providing water. I don’t mean distribution like the big brands—I mean independent and African American.”

His decision to enter the water industry isn’t about celebrity endorsement—it’s about ownership, access, and creating space for Black entrepreneurs in underserved markets.

The Process: Vision Meets Execution

Jejuan understands that great ideas require more than inspiration—they require action, planning, and investment.

“Depends on how many you want, who you want to do your branding—as far as bottling, your logo, and packing. Also, it determines the type of water you would like, or even CBD. So the process is always different depending on how hands-on you plan to be, and how much you want to spend.”

His words are both practical and empowering. By demystifying the startup journey, he opens the door for others who are ready to build something meaningful.

Looking Ahead

With experience spanning athletics, film, fashion, and entrepreneurship, Jejuan isn’t slowing down—he’s expanding.

“Next three years, I will continue being a mogul, an actor, filmmaker, and content creator. Scriptwriter, producer, and God-fearing family man.”

It’s a clear reflection of his mindset: grounded in faith, guided by discipline, and fueled by creativity.

Mastering Every Room

With so many gifts, it’s fair to wonder which one speaks to him most. But Jejuan doesn't view his talents in competition with each other—they are tools in his ever-growing toolbox.

“Basketball, because that was first. Then football. Then maybe acting, writing, creating… modeling last. I believe in being great at everything or at least working towards that. I don’t like doing stuff and being outdone by everyone around me, so if I’m good at everything then there’s not one meeting I can’t be in or move I can’t make.”

That mindset—of striving for excellence and refusing to be boxed in—is what sets him apart in every industry he touches.

An Unstoppable Journey

Jejuan Smith represents a new era of creative leadership—where artistry, entrepreneurship, and purpose exist together. He’s not just taking roles or signing deals; he’s building a legacy, creating his own opportunities, and carrying his community with him.

There’s no need to predict where he’ll go next. If his path thus far tells us anything, it’s that Jejuan moves with intention—and wherever he goes, he leaves a mark.

In a world that often asks us to choose just one lane, Jejuan Smith is boldly writing his own script. And it’s one we’ll be watching for years to come.

Photography by Alex D. Rogers