Encouragement Starts Early for Athens Kindergartner Behind Inspired Thinker Rookie

Mark White | The Mark White Show

Athens, Alabama - A 5-year-old Athens student is using creativity and encouragement to inspire others, launching a coloring book and youth fashion brand just days before her sixth birthday.

McKinsey-Beth, a kindergarten student at Athens Elementary School, recently celebrated her birthday at the Athens-Limestone County Public Library with a special event that also marked the debut of her coloring book and brand under the Inspired Thinker Rookie initiative.

The project is centered around the Inspired Thinker Pledge, a short affirmation designed to encourage positive thinking, intentional choices, and kindness toward others. During a recent appearance on The Mark White Show, McKinsey-Beth shared the pledge in her own words and explained that she hopes other children feel happy when they use her coloring book.

Her mother, Fatima Jackson, founder of Inspired Thinker Rookie, said the brand is meant to be more than a product line.

“This is not just a coloring book or clothing,” Jackson said. “It’s a movement. It’s about helping children understand why they think the way they think and encouraging them to make positive choices early.”

Jackson, an educator with more than 16 years of experience, said the idea grew out of her own work in education and faith-based leadership. She explained that the pledge has been a daily part of her daughter’s routine and became a natural way to introduce concepts like confidence, responsibility, and encouragement to young children.

According to Jackson, the initiative focuses on children ages five to ten, emphasizing literacy, creativity, and character development. In addition to the coloring book, the brand includes art activities, music, and online resources designed to reinforce positive thinking and learning skills.

McKinsey Beth’s recent library event drew community support, including coverage from local media and attendance by city leaders. Jackson said the response reinforced the importance of creating opportunities for young voices to be heard.

“My hope is that she believes in herself,” Jackson said. “When children believe in themselves, they are better able to make a positive impact on others.”

The Inspired Thinker Rookie coloring book and related materials are available online through Amazon and the Inspired Thinker Rookie website. Jackson’s book, Twelve Ways Inspired Thinking Leads to Success for Him and Her, is also available through online retailers.

As McKinsey-Beth prepares to celebrate her sixth birthday this Saturday, her message remains simple. Encouragement matters. Choices matter. And inspiration can begin at any age.

For more information, visit: inspiredrookie.com