Few can match his passion for the issues that matter – and with his latest venture, Jaden Smith is leading the charge against homelessness.
In Hollywood, activism can often be reduced to snappy posts, trending hashtags and passion-filled award speeches. Actual change, then, or tangible improvements to the lives of those at a disadvantage – due to discrimination, poverty, or a lack of opportunities – can be hard to come by, at least as far as the City of Angels is concerned.
Some stars, however, have become adept at using their names and platforms for actual change, summoning their millions of followers in a sea of action. One such star is Jaden, who boasts a special talent for challenging societal norms and doing things in his own unique way.
To loyal fans of the modern-day fresh prince, this will come as little surprise. Smith is no stranger to taking on issues bigger than himself, with the confidence and swagger of those much more powerful (and older) than he is. First, it was the battle against gender norms. Then, he had a go at solving the complex problem of plastic waste. Now, with his ‘I Love You Restaurant’, Jaden may well be setting the bar for how celebrities and influencers make change that matters.
In true Jaden style, it’s set up as a vegan eatery focused on feeding the homeless with less of the casual snobbery and more genuine compassion. As well as offering free for to those who need it, though, the ‘I Love You Restaurant’ offers a way for you to help out, too. “It’s for homeless people to get free food,” Smith said, “but if you’re not homeless, not only do you have to pay, but you have to pay for more than the food’s worth so that you can pay for the person behind you.”
With the first site launched in Downtown L.A., Jaden will have plenty of opportunities to make an impact, and judging by the support he’s already received, he’ll also have more than enough hands willing to contribute to the mission.
This, in addition to his support and investments in other plant-based consumption initiatives, is proof of the young star’s continued involvement in creating tangible social and environmental progress – he is using his growing online platform for good, and others like him should take notice.
Today, he may just be the 22-year-old son of an acting giant doing great things. Tomorrow, though, Jaden could well be one of the most important names in finding solutions to the issues that matter.
For more on Jaden Smith, read why we think he’s the fresh prince of change.