John Daniels IV
"Let no one look down on [you because of] your youth, but be an example and set a pattern for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in [moral] purity" - 1 Timothy 4:12
Hi, I'm John W. Daniels IV, a junior at Marquette University High School in Milwaukee. The ethos of cura personalis, or "caring for the whole person," is something that resonates deeply with me and has shaped my character and leadership style.
I founded and serve as Principal of Pontem, a hub for young aspiring investors and entrepreneurs like myself, with the mission to bridge the gap in financial literacy. I believe that financial empowerment starts with making informed decisions, and I'm committed to helping my peers achieve just that. In 2023, I launched Swing2Win, a unique program that connects students with influential business leaders in Milwaukee through the game of golf. It's all about learning, networking, and growing, both personally and professionally. Additionally, Pontem supports Toppers FC, an indoor soccer league team of high school students across the 5-county Metro Milwaukee area.
At school, the emphasis on cura personalis has played a pivotal role in molding me into the person I am today. In the fall of 2023, I had the privilege of serving Kenya East Africa Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ on a mission trip; working at the medical camp, educational facility and widowers church. From February to April 2024, I served on a Student Visionaries campaign team for Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, individually raising near $2,000 for blood cancer awareness and research. I now serve as the President of Milwaukee's Jack and Jill of America chapter, where I work with other young leaders and community partners to tackle issues affecting youth empowerment and education. In May of 2024, I was selected by the White House and Jack and Jill of America, Inc. to welcome Vice President Kamala D. Harris to Milwaukee and meet with her.
I work part-time as a Project Executive for Alive Inc. Milwaukee, an organization that aims to make a tangible impact in our local community and has funded mission work across the globe in places such as Nairobi and Laikipia counties in Kenya. My passion for travel has taken me to places like Doha, St. Barth, St. Lucia, St. Martin, London, Paris, Shanghai, Beijing, and Monte-Carlo. Wherever I go, I make it a point to collaborate with religious organizations and local communities to contribute to youth education efforts. My experiences abroad, including my involvement in the Ignatian Global Scholars pilot program, have fueled my desire to contribute to global economic development and support underserved communities.
In everything I do, whether it's in Milwaukee or halfway across the world, I strive to embody the principle of cura personalis. It's not just about leadership; it's about empathy and active involvement in bettering the lives of others. I'm excited to continue this journey and create positive change on both local and international scales.