Main character energy

Jaide Hinds-Clarke, ’20, wants to remind you that you are the main character of your story. Once a basketball player being coached, this leadership developer is now here to be your coach.

“A lot of times, folks will think a coach is just the person telling you what to do and how to do it,” Hinds-Clarke said. “I don’t believe that. It’s awesome to have that guidance and think through ideas with someone who has your best interest in mind.”

Hinds-Clarke puts this to work with the Trevor Project’s hotline, creating the learning modules that prepare volunteers to support the LGBTQ+ youth calling in. 

“We have volunteers who go through a 10-week learning journey. They’re coming to Trevor and getting the support they need to be counselors on the lines,” she said. 

Alongside her wife, Amiaya, she also cofounded Hinds-Clarke Co., a coaching and consulting service specializing in leadership relating to mental health; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and sports. Clients begin with a session clarifying why they want coaching and what their goals are. From there, Hinds-Clarke tailors future sessions to the individual’s needs. One of her methods is Real Colors, a personality assessment based on four colors, which she often uses to demonstrate team collaboration. 

“I’m the supporting character, and [the client is] the leader of their own story,” she said. “How can I help them continue to feel empowered to make the decisions that are best for them?” Hinds-Clarke views the outcomes as having learning potential rather than as a success or failure—after all, there’s no story without character development.

“Anytime I have the opportunity to brainstorm, work together, collaborate with folks, and then be part of their growth is really fun,” Hinds-Clarke said. “I love being able to be part of something that’s bigger than myself.”