Central State University alumnus Saeed Coleman makes waves with nonprofit

Central State University alumnus Saeed Coleman, '12, has been featured in HBCU Buzz's "Entrepreneur Spotlight" for his notable achievements as a lyricist, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. 

Overcoming a challenging upbringing in Richmond, California, Coleman launched two significant initiatives: Live From Paradise Clothing and the 10,000 Hrs+ Academy. 

Live From Paradise, an athleisure brand established in 2015, embodies authenticity, culture, and the pursuit of self-defined paradise. 

The 10,000 Hrs+ Academy, a nonprofit organization, offers life skills, entrepreneurship, and trade workshops to inner-city youth aged 8-18, aiming to introduce them to opportunities and assist in career path exploration. 

Coleman attributes his success to his experiences at Central State University. 

“It provided a nurturing environment where I was surrounded by people who looked like me, shared similar struggles, and were driven to overcome them,” Coleman shared with HBCU Buzz. “This experience instilled a deep sense of pride, cultural awareness, and the understanding that excellence isn’t optional; it’s expected."

“My HBCU experience emphasized the importance of service, which directly influenced my decision to create 10,000 Hrs+ Academy and give back to youth in need.” 

Looking ahead, Coleman plans to release 52 new songs this year while expanding both Live From Paradise and the 10,000 Hrs+ Academy, continuing to inspire others through relatable stories, empowering fashion, and impactful community initiatives. 

Read more about Coleman’s impact via HBCU Buzz.