Oshae Jones inspires students through her career and personal challenges

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) - After Olympic Boxer Oshae Jones recently added another win to her record this past weekend in Philadelphia, she took the time to speak to Toledo Public Schools students on Tuesday.

In recent months, Jones has made the headlines in Toledo for news unrelated to boxing. Yet, in spite of the controversary, she is proof that young people can withstand negative situations and come on the other side as a better person. In fact, Jones said she is using these recent experiences as fuel to inspire students.

“If you go through trials and tribulations in life, don’t let it define you,” said Jones. “Stand up and keep fighting.”

The Toledo Boxer was among 14 local Black heroes the students learned about during Black History Month. Jones was honored to share her story on what it takes to be an Olympian.

“So it took 13 years to work hard to get an Olympic bronze medal. 13 years, nothing that you do is going to be easy,” said Jones. “I took it all in and I’m grateful for the experience just to go over there. Just to go to another country.”

Jones told the students she’s faced some eye opening challenges. Last year while police were clearing out a gathering, Jones asked police officers questions which led to her arrest, which included an officer hitting Jones.

The officer was disciplined for profanity but not for the use of force.

Jones plead no contest and was ordered to participate in a diversion program. Once she completes the program, the case will be wiped away.

“Malcolm X, Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, they all had to go through some tough difficult times with the police, and they didn’t let those times defined them,” said Jones. “They kept going and kept fighting for what they believe in just like me.”

The ninth graders were excited to meet the boxer who reminded them to choose your friends wisely.

“I feel like if you surround yourself around positive people, I think positive things will come to you,” said Jones.

See a spelling or grammar error in our story? Please include the title when you click here to report it.

Copyright 2023 WTVG. All rights reserved.