Mackenzie Robinson, affectionately known as Mac to her global team, spoke with me to delve into the complexities encountered in spreading entrepreneurship and STEM fields across developing nations. As the Executive Vice President of Philanthropy and Corporate Citizenship for NEYIUS, Mac stands as the driving force behind the Courtney Jordan Foundation, a London-based entity aiming to solve society’s challenges with viable solutions. The foundation spans globally as CJF America, CJF Sri Lanka, and CJF Bangladesh, fueling Mac’s lifelong commitment to uplifting communities through entrepreneurship and education.
Her ambition, a lifelong commitment, revolves around enabling dreams to soar, fostering prosperity through entrepreneurship and education. However, the mission faces intricate obstacles in developing nations—scarcity of quality education, inadequate infrastructure, and cultural norms impeding innovation. Addressing these demands concerted efforts: accessible education, mentorship, and strategic resource allocation. Empowering aspiring entrepreneurs and STEM enthusiasts is pivotal for transformative growth.
Mac emphasizes a nuanced approach beyond financial aid—tackling root causes while sustaining mission focus. She notes the importance of balancing immediate needs without deviating from the long-term vision, acknowledging the complexity of addressing essential needs without losing sight of the overarching mission.
“STEM emerged as a new initiative within our solution-based organization, spearheaded by Division Chief Kristen Picot of our American division” [sic], as highlighted by Mac. Kristen, who joined the organisation last year, herself has encountered significant challenges in developing programs in the rural parts of the U.S., attributing it to her gender and her brothers’ political involvement in the town she aimed to assist. Facing a relentless campaign to thwart her efforts, including office break-ins, Obscenities spray painted on the walls of her office doors, used condoms left in her hallway (with messages of stop spreading aids, an attack met too intimidate her LGBTQAI+ staff member), threats, and cyberbullying, Kristen’s resilience shines through. saying “They even targeted my boss in the most appalling manner,” referring to her boss, the foundation’s namesake, billionaire entrepreneur, and philanthropist Courtney Jordan. She added, “The rumors and accusations reached a level that rivaled soap operas.” Undeterred by the challenges, she champions the cause of bridging opportunity gaps, especially in overlooked communities.swiftly made an impact despite facing significant opposition, often attributed to her gender and her brothers’ political involvement in the town she aimed to assist.
“It felt like something you would see in a movie,” Kristen says, referring to the resistance she encountered while striving to execute her duties efficiently. She faced unprecedented hurdles— that didnt stop with that of the break in’s but also from a handful of community leaders, all steeming from gossip surrounding her brothers 2021 campaign for town commissioners, Kristen says, from rumors to hatred from a select few it spawned this dangerous cult like response from some” This hatred would transform from that of online bullying to in person, necessitating a restraining order against a community leader, due to physical threats of rape and violence.
Such pushback, uncommon yet emblematic of the town’s conservative attitudes, did not deter Kristen’s determination to bridge opportunity gaps, especially for women and marginalized communities. Despite resistance, her mission remains steadfast—bridging gaps in access to opportunities for all, irrespective of their location.
Undeterred by challenges, Kristen aims to bring equal opportunities to small towns, recognizing their vital role as the heart of America. Her commitment remains unwavering: ensuring equitable access to opportunities for all, regardless of geographical constraints.
Mac, based in London, five hours ahead of Kristen’s time zone, expressed shock and concern following attacks on their office and team members, particularly targeting Kristen. The vandalism and threats posed serious safety concerns, prompting discussions about relocating Kristen for her safety. However, Kristen remained steadfast, emphasizing the actions of a few misguided individuals, not reflective of the entire community.
Leem Kincaid, Director of Global Strategy, and Stephen Dennis, President of the Courtney Jordan Foundation, lauded Kristen’s courage, affirming their shared purpose and the Foundation’s resilience in the face of adversity.
The Foundation’s relentless commitment remains unwavering, despite the challenges encountered, echoing their dedication to empowering marginalized communities worldwide.