Empowering Stage Presence: LOLO (Lauren Pritchard) Inspires Jackson Grown Fellows

January 24th, 2025

For the fourth consecutive year, LOLO (Lauren Pritchard) brought her expertise to the Jackson Grown Leader Fellowship, our transformative program in Jackson, TN. As a singer, songwriter, and artistic force, LOLO has collaborated with major bands like Panic! at the Disco and Fall Out Boy, and her career includes recording contracts with Universal and Atlantic Records. Her influence extends far beyond her musical contributions through her deep dedication to fostering creativity and helping emerging talent hone their craft.

LOLO introduces herself and shares her story with Group A.

A Legacy of Support and Growth

Since 2021, LOLO has been a dedicated contributor to the Jackson Grown Leader Fellowship. As a coach, mentor, and emcee of the Annual Challenge to the City, she has guided dozens of Fellows who have gone on to serve the community as Board Members of major organizations, volunteers, students, and employees in various fields. Each year, LOLO returns with renewed inspiration. Reflecting on her time she says, "Each year I leave just as enlightened by the fellows' unique perspectives as they are by what I am able to contribute."

London, a Junior Fellow at Madison Academic High School, collaborates with fellow students and mentors as she refines her topic and solution for the Challenge to the City.

During the 5th Meeting of the 2024-2025 Jackson Grown Leader Fellowship program, LOLO emphasized the role of body language as an extension of speech that communicates much more than words on a page. Drawing from her experience performing with influential artists, she helps Fellows develop their stage presence and presentation skills to strengthen the connection between leaders and their community.

Paige, a Junior Fellow at JCM Early College High, presents her topic on mental health.

Stage Presence 101

"Think about what your body is doing while presenting," LOLO advises. This simple yet transformative guidance encourages Fellows to become more aware of their movements, posture, and overall presence when on stage. She teaches them to avoid nervous habits like hugging oneself or fidgeting, instead encouraging them to "plant their feet" and stand firmly while engaging with their audience.

Kemora, a Junior Fellow at South Side High School, speaks from the podium on the importance of mentors who can support children and teens dealing with past trauma or feelings of being uncared for.

LOLO emphasizes the importance of clear speech, suggesting that Fellows avoid verbal fillers like "um." Instead, she recommends repeating a phrase when they need time to collect their thoughts, maintaining the flow of their presentation. One of her key techniques involves taking a 10-second breath before speaking. "It's not as long as you think," LOLO assures them, explaining how this pause can transform their ability to gather thoughts, calm nerves, and deliver a clearer message.

Makigh, JCM Early College High Junior Fellow, shares his concern for individuals experiencing homelessness.

The Power of Passion

While technique and physicality matter, LOLO knows that the most powerful presentations come from emotion and connection. She emphasizes understanding the "why" behind what you're presenting. "Explain why you're passionate about the challenge you're presenting," she tells the Fellows. By sharing personal stories that connect to their performance, Fellows create deeper emotional bonds with their audience.

Kelian, JCM High School Junior Fellow, and Mark Cancia, Mentor from United Way West Tennessee, engage in meeting 5.

This year, LOLO was particularly moved by the Fellows' personal stories. One student shared his middle school dream of writing a book, using this experience to challenge age restrictions on creative grants. "Art is therapy for so many people," he reflected, advocating for more opportunities for young people to explore their creativity without bureaucratic limitations.

Ja'Vieon, a Junior Fellow at JCM Early College Prep, stays focused during Meeting 5's group think session.

Another student shared a touching story about his first experience with freedom through getting his first car. This symbol of independence opened his eyes to people struggling on the streets. "I'm a sensitive, caring, and empathetic person," he said, "and I just wish there were more places, like shelters, for those people to go." LOLO admired how he connected his personal experience to important social issues.

Alfonzo, South Side High School Junior Fellow, expertly uses the microphone—positioned just above his waist but not too close to his face—while presenting his challenge on safe driving practices.

A Community-Level Focus

Summer Nichols, a mentor for Jackson Grown, guided Fellows to frame their challenges and solutions from a community-level perspective. "Think about what can make an impact right here in Jackson," Summer emphasized. This local focus helps Fellows develop practical solutions that can create real change in their own community.

Mentor, Summer Nichols, listens to Fellows present during meeting 5.

It’s these human stories—rooted in authenticity, vulnerability, and compassion—that LOLO seeks to nurture in the fellows. She encourages them to draw from their own experiences, fears, and passions when presenting their challenges, because it’s these emotions that create the deepest connections with an audience.

Desi, South Side High School Junior Fellow, presenting on his topic- lack of resources for individuals in need.

Building Community Through Art

LOLO's influence extends beyond mentoring to include active involvement in Jackson's artistic initiatives. By investing in the community and encouraging creative collaboration, she helps nurture and expand Jackson's cultural scene.

Ashton, a Junior Fellow at Madison Academic High School, exudes confidence on stage while presenting on gun violence.

Her ongoing relationship with Jackson Grown demonstrates the power of mentorship and artistic collaboration. Every year, she empowers young talent with the skills and confidence they need to take on any stage, while reminding them of the importance of their story, their voice, and their passion. Through LOLO's guidance, Fellows learn to stand tall, speak clearly, and share their truth, creating meaningful connections that reach far beyond the program itself.

Jacorey, a Senior Fellow at JCM High School, addresses the issue of unsustainable school lunches and the waste they generate.

Dylan, a Junior Fellow at JCM High School, presents on mental health, emphasizing the need for a space where people can be seen, heard, and feel less alone.

Jaycee, a Junior Fellow at South Side High School, reflects on her journey from apathy to passion for education. As a freshman, she had little interest in school until a teacher recognized her talent for writing. This discovery sparked a shift in her mindset, revealing how empowering it can be to care about her education—and how much more fulfilling it feels to succeed when she puts in the effort.