Resilient Purpose: The Legacy of Naquan 'Ruc Da Jackal' White

Peace and love, family. Welcome back for the 3rd interview in part 1 of my "Black Legacy" interview series titled "The Black Man Can" This interview is extra special. It features my dearly beloved childhood friend turned brother, Naquan White, known by many as "Ruc Da Jackal" or simply "Ruc". Another one of his names, given to him by his late-great cousin, who was more like his brother, is "Resy Tip". LOL. Man. Rest In Peace to our brother, the great Hambino, aka Richard "Stress Factor" Washington.

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Photo courtesy of Naquan "Ruc Da Jackal" White

Naquan White, aka "Ruc Da Jackal," is an artist, entrepreneur, and community advocate from Queensbridge Projects. Raised in a loving and supportive environment, he found early inspiration in music, earning a gold plaque and working alongside his idols. As a father, he shifted his focus toward building a stable future, gaining certifications in Phlebotomy, CNA, and EKG, launching a clothing business, and dedicating himself to homeless outreach.

Mentored by Ron Artest (Metta World Peace), Naquan developed skills in business, marketing, and community engagement. He believes Black male leadership begins at home and is committed to inspiring the next generation through mentorship, advocacy, and action. For him, legacy isn’t about fame—it’s about the values we pass down and the impact we leave on others. Living by the motto “Do it now,” Naquan continues to uplift his community and empower those around him.

Personal Legacy Journey

Q1: Tell us about your upbringing. What early influences shaped who you are today? 

A1 : I Grew up in Queensbridge Projects . I had a fun childhood. I grew up with love, as I was surrounded by family. There were many influences in my life from a young age, starting with my hardworking mother who raised me as a teenager. My uncles, who frequently took me back and forth to Brooklyn, introduced me to the life of the 5% Nation. I also cherish my community which is filled with remarkable individuals who succeeded and returned to inspire hope and ambition. Their support was one of the main fuels for my fire.

Q2: What inspired you to pursue your career path? Were there pivotal moments that changed your direction or perspective?

A2: I have chosen many different paths at various times in my life, driven by my community

involvement and love for the art of poetry. Inspired at a young age, I pursued music, which

opened doors to an exciting and fulfilling life. I earned a gold plaque, traveled the world,

and created music with my idols—fulfilling lifelong dreams. As I grew older and welcomed my first child, I was inspired to build a better foundation for her. I dedicated myself to working with the homeless community, giving back while securing a living and securing healthcare and retirement benefits. The arrival of my son ignited a new motivation within me to provide even more for my family. I went back to school and gained certifications in Phlebotomy, as a C.N.A., and EKG. I even launched my own online drop-shipping clothing company. Each step has been a testament to resilience and a passion for growth.

Q3: Who have been your biggest role models or mentors, and how have they impacted your journey? 

A3: I’ve had the privilege of having many mentors at different stages of my life, but if I had

to choose just one, it would be my friend and children’s godfather, Ron Artest, also known

as Metta World Peace. He has profoundly inspired me and changed my life for the better.

His influence has transformed my perspective, boosted my confidence, and enhanced my

ability to conduct business, market effectively, and engage with people from diverse

backgrounds. Ron has opened doors for me, helping me flourish in areas I never thought

possible. Always there for guidance, he has kept me focused and on the right path.

Community Impact and Responsibility

Q4: How has your work contributed to the Black community? 

A4 : Being a good citizen and raising my children to be good citizens is a vital contribution to

my community. I strive to inspire others, which has been a driving force in my life. I always

return to my community, organizing and participating in events that uplift those around me.

I reach out to the youth, encouraging and empowering them. My work in homeless outreach

involved patrolling my community to support those in need by providing clothing, food, and

guidance, along with access to free services. I proudly represent my community, fostering pride among all of us raised here. With hope, inspiration, and knowledge, I demonstrate that positive change is within reach. For I am a prime example.

Q5: In your opinion, what does Black male leadership look like today, and how can it grow stronger?

A5: Black male leadership begins in the household. We must be present. To me, true

leadership looks like being a good father. We need more fathers involved in their children's

lives, more mentorship programs, and more well-rounded role models to follow. It all starts

at home. Let us show love and power, for that is the essence of true leadership.

Q6: How do you empower others, particularly younger Black men, to succeed and leave their own legacy?

A6: I empower others by sharing knowledge, being present, empathizing, and

understanding. I also demonstrate what is possible by sharing my life experiences,

including my mistakes and how I corrected them. By being a clear example to follow and as

transparent as possible, I aim to inspire others.

Black Culture & Heritage

Q7: What does Black culture mean to you? 

A7 : I am starting to dislike anything that characterizes us outside of the human race so

now to ask me what Black culture means to me, I would correct you and reframe the question by asking, "What does the human culture mean to me, which the more melanated people started?" I would respond with everything ..... Life and everything that exists in it, That’s Black culture to me. The Human experience

Q8: How do you stay connected to your heritage, and why is it important for others to do the same?

A8: I stay connected to my heritage through my family, carrying on traditions and values

that remind me of where I came from, guiding me toward where I am meant to go.

Q9: What does the word "legacy" mean to you as a Black man? 

A9 : Legacy is not about being famous or making history—it's about the values we pass

down and the impact we leave on the people we love. My greatest legacy will be my

children, who will carry forward the principles and traditions I have instilled in them. If they,

in turn, pass these values on to their own children, then I have done my part. That, to me, is

the true meaning of a lasting legacy.

Vision For The Future

Q10: What are your hopes for the future of the Black community? 

A10 : Independence

Q11: What advice would you give to young Black men seeking to define their purpose and build a meaningful legacy? 

A11: Find out what you are passionate about and give it your all

Q12: How can we, as a collective, work toward a stronger, united future for Black people?

A12: Engaging with each other positively and inspirationally

Rapid Fire Insights

Q13: What is your favorite book or movie about Black excellence? 

A13: Supreme lessons of Gods and Earths

Q14: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

A14: Do it now

Q15: What’s one word that describes your legacy so far? 

A15: Resilient

Q16: What is your favorite childhood memory? 

A16: Me and my cousin just existing care free as young teens

Q17: What was your dream as a child? 

A17: To be a rapper

Thank you all for reading this article. This is my brother. We've known each other 30 years, at least. I am grateful for him and I am proud of him. Show him some love by leaving a comment and then sharing this interview with your networks.

To support Naquan's clothing line, simply visit his website www.iamthebrandclothing.com.

Peace & Love,

Lashawn "Suga Ray" Marston,

Founder, Lashawn Marston Enterprises