On a bright Wednesday afternoon in NYC, Fat Joe and Jadakiss partnered with REFORM Alliance to bring 40 fathers and their families impacted by the criminal justice system to Sei Less NYC. The Asian fusion hotspot, known for its celebrity guests like Cardi B and J. Cole, transformed into a space of healing and connection.
From the moment I entered, the mood was intentional. A warm greeting from the REFORM team guided me upstairs, where a neon Basquiat quote flashed on the wall:
“I’m not a real person, I’m a legend.” It felt purposeful—bold, creative, and deeply real. The room carried a calm, centered energy. In the press area, I asked the two icons what they were grateful for. Jadakiss answered, “Health and family.” Fat Joe said, “God,” and spoke about how faith, family, and purpose have guided his life. I thanked them for their cultural contributions and brought up their upcoming podcast—Joe & Jada, launching this week—a two‑times‑weekly series produced by Roc Nation and The Volume. It promises raw, unfiltered exploration of music, sports, culture, and personal growth.
During lunch, Fat Joe emphasized that while Mother’s Day often gets the spotlight, fathers deserve recognition, too. He spoke earnestly about family, freedom, and the work needed to reunite households affected by incarceration.
Listen to Joe & Jada:
Surrounding the table were changemakers and creatives shaping culture and reform:
@lukee_forbes – Executive Director, We Are Revolutionary
@armon.sadler – Journalist, Vibe Magazine
@itsdarden – Digital creative/consultant
@adamcinematography – Visual storyteller
@dutchessofink – Multi-hyphenate artist
@designer_link – Fashion designer and DOE youth educator.
REFORM Alliance’s mission—to overhaul the probation and parole system with empathy—was front and center. And Sei Less reinforced its commitment; last Thanksgiving, they hosted a community dinner for 50 teens with Bronx rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie.
I’m grateful to have sat with Grammy‑nominated artists Fat Joe and Jadakiss and witnessed this Lunch of purpose, unity, and acknowledgement for all men and fathers. Thanks to Vital Versatility PR, Roc Nation, and REFORM for creating this moment and the gift bag! I love the note book as a writer, that’s a perfect gift. Walking in, I passed a neon sign that read: “I’m not a real person, I’m a legend.”A bold reminder that greatness often begins with belief, and by the grace of God, we will all continue to walk in that truth. Salute to Sei Less NYC—where food, culture, and purpose come together beautifully.
