Dejon Jernagin, Champion of Youth Development

Dejon Jernagin stands at the intersection of faith, athletics, and youth empowerment, dedicating his life to transforming the trajectories of young people across multiple platforms. As the visionary leader behind Transparent Truth Apostolic Ministries, founder of California Recruits, and driving force of The Man Up Foundation, Jernagin has built a multifaceted legacy centered on unlocking human potential.

Through California Recruits, his premier high school recruiting service, Jernagin has opened doors to higher education for countless student-athletes, securing scholarships that might otherwise have remained out of reach. His expertise in navigating the complex world of athletic recruitment has created pathways to success for young people from diverse backgrounds.

The Man Up Foundation represents Jernagin's deep commitment to holistic youth development, providing mentorship in life skills and leadership to boys and young men aged 8-21. This nonprofit organization addresses the critical need for positive male role models and practical guidance during formative years.

As a former professional basketball player with the world-renowned Harlem Globetrotters, Jernagin brings authentic credibility to his work with athletes. This experience informed his acclaimed book, When The Cheers Stop: How to Help Athletes Deal with Depression, which addresses the often-overlooked mental health challenges facing competitive athletes. The book has been praised for its practical, compassionate approach to a critical issue in sports culture.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jernagin exemplifies the values he teaches. Married to Shellee for 26 years, he has raised four sons who have each earned college football scholarships—a testament to his principles of dedication, discipline, and family commitment.