Election Day

Ja’Shae Rader was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. She graduated from Menifee County High School in Frenchburg, Kentucky, earning her diploma in Business Administration. Returning home, she obtained her National Professional Customer Service Certification and began her occupation at McDonald’s as a Crew Trainer where she quickly demons

Ja’Shae Rader was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. She graduated from Menifee County High School in Frenchburg, Kentucky, earning her diploma in Business Administration. Returning home, she obtained her National Professional Customer Service Certification and began her occupation at McDonald’s as a Crew Trainer where she quickly demonstrated her leadership by training and mentoring new employees.

Ja’Shae’s professional journey has included service in healthcare, where she earned her nursing and phlebotomy licenses and worked in hospitals and nursing homes throughout Ohio. Her caregiving deepened in 2016 when she became the proud mother of her son, Kelend (“KJ”), the center of her joy and inspiration.

Her entrepreneurial spirit was shaped by both personal triumph and tragedy. Following the loss of her aunt to domestic violence, Ja’Shae launched a haircare brand in her aunt’s honor. This experience became the foundation for her life’s mission: to advocate for public safety, protect families, and stand against domestic violence. She later founded The Mettle of Essence, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and empowering survivors of domestic violence, children, and families in Cuyahoga County.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ja’Shae created KJ’s Munch, a family-friendly food operation honoring her son’s legacy while also serving her community and shortly after opening she relocated to The City of East Cleveland.  KJ’s Munch also became a vessel of compassion by supporting orphan children through the Uganda Provision Fund. The business is set to reopen in 2026.

In May 2023, Ja’Shae answered another calling for public service . She ran her first campaign for East Cleveland City Council (Ward 4), focusing on children, families, and rebuilding the community with sustainable solutions. Though not elected, she gained the knowledge and practice of Social Work to sharpen her vision and deepen her commitment to East Cleveland . Today, she is running for City Council At-Large, carrying forward her mission of faith-based leadership, economic and social justice, and stronger families for a stronger city.

Ja’Shae embraces every lesson of her journey the struggles, victories, and growth with resilience. She stands as an evangelist, mother, entrepreneur, nonprofit director, and community advocate. 

Ja’Shae  doesn’t just believe in change she is prepared to lead it. Her life’s testimony is proof: no obstacle has stopped her, and no challenge will. She rises not only for herself and her son, but for the future of East Cleveland. 

"Rise with Rader"