michael jefferson

Michael Jefferson, Village Vibes Manager

Michael Jefferson joins Village Is Possible as a Project Manager, bringing a disciplined, trauma-informed, and mission-aligned approach to capacity building and program execution. A native of East Oakland, California, Michael’s journey is rooted in a deep commitment to community empowerment, connecting his experiences in Oakland and New York to VIP’s heart work.

Michael’s educational background—which includes an A.A. in Psychology and a B.A. in Liberal Arts Psychology with a Concentration in Neuroscience from Sarah Lawrence College—provides a strong foundation for understanding human behavior and supporting the organization’s healing-centered engagement framework.

He attributes much of his professional success and focus to over 20+ years in Martial Arts, where he achieved his 4th-degree blackbelt and became a 3-time National Blackbelt League World Champion. This extensive experience is translated into his professional life through an unwavering commitment to discipline, coaching, and resilience. His work as a School teacher and Martial Arts teacher has given him a niche in helping children and youth overcome physical and mental challenges—a skill set perfectly suited for guiding system-impacted families toward healing and connection.

Michael’s perspective is further informed by his personal journey with Narcolepsy, a chronic condition involving excessive daytime sleepiness, however, he reframes it as a "super power" that necessitates an efficient, intuitive, and intentional process for managing time and energy. As Project Manager, this perspective ensures that he drives VIP's initiatives—including the development of community-led programs with maximum focus and strategic impact.

Michael is dedicated to spreading the "jewels" of empowerment and self-discovery, helping to cultivate the transformative, intergenerational village that is the core of VIP's mission.