Niaja Jackson is the current Tobacco Program Manager at Gulfcoast North AHEC. Niaja was born and raised in St. Louis, MO and attended college in the deep south so she has a southern charm that she embodies. She has over 20 years post graduate work in the health and wellness field including substance abuse and mental health prevention, community-based case management oversight, non-profit grant writing, and youth at risk program administration. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology/Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Social Sciences with a concentration in Sociology from her beloved alma mater, Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, LA. Niaja has served on numerous steering committees, planning councils, not-for-profit oversight/leadership boards as well as ran for public office in Pasco County, FL.

Niaja serves her community through her local church and mentors’ young girls and women especially those from at risk and/or impoverished backgrounds. She is currently certified as a Fitness and Nutrition Coach and is very passionate about total body wellness from the inside out and serving as a Tobacco Cessation facilitator and Program Manager aligns with her core values and beliefs.

Niaja resides in Pasco County, FL with her husband and 3 young children whom she adores. She enjoys learning about all things health and wellness focused, managing her household with grace, strength training, gardening, and cooking new recipes for her family.

Niaja believes that every person matters, their life matters and we should show kindness towards others no matter their circumstances.