At the mere age of nine, Jamila Thompson has already created a company and wrote a book. Her mother, Lisa Middleton-Thompson, called her “an inspiration and definitely not a typical 9-year-old,” and Thompson has a lot to show for it.
When she was eight, she wrote You Work It Girl; A Tween’s Guide To Beauty, Fashion and Other Cool Stuff.
The book targets readers ages eight to 12 and teaches how to manage ones money, deal with bullies and, like Thompson said, “to be a leader and not a follower.” It includes fashion tips and how to accessorize outfits while striving to teach girls how to build up their self confidence.
“I want to inspire girls my age to embrace their uniqueness as early as possible in life,” said Thompson.
Thompson, who recently appeared on the Mo’nique Show, is in fourth grade at P.S./I.S. 499 and lives in Rosedale with her parents and her older brother, Jamaal.
During her free time, she likes to be inventive and create things. She enjoys origami, making gift baskets and, for her mother’s birthday, she made her a present instead of buying one.
Even though Thompson does not have much of an interest in makeup and said she prefers “to look natural,” she loves clothes and dressing up.
“I like to go shopping [but] I like making my own clothes too,” said Thompson. One of her favorite stores include Michael’s craft store where she can buy material to create her own unique items.
Thompson has been fortunate enough to be successful at a young age. She has been singing since the age of two but is also a dancer and actress and has won many awards, including the Key Women of America Scholarship. She was also a finalist for “The Lion King” show at the Apollo Theatre.
Her book You Work it Girl is due to come out in early May but until then Thompson could not be more excited. “I want people to say, ‘she did all this when she’s only 9!’”
Almost two years ago, Thompson created Rub A Dub Spa Parties Inc, which holds birthday parties and other celebrations for kids. The spa, located on Merrick Boulevard, offers facials, manicures, pedicures, massages and a runway “diva fashion show” for kids featuring the guests of the party.
Her mother helps her with all her projects and runs the spa.
“She’s always thinking outside the box and coming up with new ideas to improve the business,” said mom Lisa. “And people come in the store looking for her. I am very proud and I do expect her to go far in life.”
Thompson hopes to write another book in the future about things fathers and daughters can do together. When she gets older, she wants to be a model or actress.
“But I don’t want to be one that screams in movies,” said Thompson.
