Jansen Azarias-Suzumoto

Jansen Azarias-Suzumoto is CEO/President and Co-Founder of Higher Ground in Tucson, Arizona.

He was born and raised in the Philippines and left for the United States when he was 18 years old. With an understanding of living through trauma, the cyclical nature of poverty, and a drive to empower youth in pursuit of their dreams, Jansen hoped to help youth build a legacy within their communities.

After identifying the needs of his new city and of his own family, he started Higher Ground, a Resource Center. in 2007. Higher Ground does Life Coaching, Community-Building, and Social-Emotional Learning with under-served youth in Tucson, Arizona.

Jansen’s leadership has helped drive the Community Schools Initiative for Tucson in partnership with our local school districts, La Frontera, and other community leaders.

Jansen is a loving father of two sons and a dedicated husband to his wife, Barbie Azarias. They continue to lead Higher Ground as a family with their passion and drive. Their faith strengthens and motivates their work with the organization. Today, Higher Ground serves over 2000 youth in Tucson.