Saeed Coleman, a 2012 graduate of Central State University, is making waves as a lyricist, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Having overcome the obstacles of his challenging upbringing in Richmond, California, including spending time in juvenile hall, Coleman has channeled his life experiences into two remarkable initiatives: Live From Paradise Clothing and the 10,000 Hrs+ Academy.

Live From Paradise

Coleman’s music journey began at 13 when he picked up the mic and recorded music with friends, ultimately leading to his opening for Nipsey Hussle during the Mailbox Money Tour in 2015. “Backstage, I shared a business idea with Nip, and with his encouragement, I launched Live From Paradise less than a week later, an athleisure brand that represents authenticity, culture, and the pursuit of paradise,” said Coleman. “Paradise is something you create, not just a place you go.” 

Live From Paradise collections are designed for people who move with purpose and want to look good while doing it. Coleman says every item reflects the journeys, dreams, and ambitions of people who come from a struggle like him but refuse to be defined by it.

10,000+ Hrs Academy

In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Coleman founded the 10,000 Hrs+ Academy, a nonprofit that supports inner-city youth aged 8-18. The academy offers life skills, entrepreneurship, trades, and more workshops to help young people overcome challenges and explore career paths. Our mission is to expose these young minds to opportunities they might not otherwise see, helping them figure out who they want to be once they graduate high school,” Coleman explains. “Watching a kid go from uncertain to unstoppable is a feeling you can’t put a price on.”

The HBCU Impact

Coleman credits his HBCU experience at Central State for preparing him for success. “It provided a nurturing environment where I was surrounded by people who looked like me, shared similar struggles, and were driven to overcome them. This experience instilled a deep sense of pride, cultural awareness, and the understanding that excellence isn’t optional; it’s expected,” he reflects. “My HBCU experience emphasized the importance of service, which directly influenced my decision to create 10,000 Hrs+ Academy and give back to youth in need.”

Next For Coleman

As he moves forward, Coleman aims to release 52 new songs this year while expanding Live From Paradise and the 10,000 Hrs+ Academy. He hopes to inspire others through relatable stories, empowering fashion, and impactful community initiatives, proving that resilience and hard work can change lives.