Honoring Jaden Joannes: A Story of Healing, Legacy, and Youth Empowerment on Back2Besa

This week’s Back2Besa segment on Good Day Seattle on FOX 13 took a powerful turn as guest host Tavis Conway stepped in to highlight a story rooted in heartbreak, hope, and community resilience. The interview centered on the life and legacy of Jaden Joannes, a graduate of Seattle’s Interagency Recovery High School who tragically passed away due to an overdose.

Now, Jaden’s family and community are transforming their grief into purpose through the newly launched Jaden’s Community Support Fund at the Seattle Foundation, which will provide critical resources like housing support and vocational training for youth in recovery.

Tavis, who also recently celebrated an Emmy win with the team at Converge Media, brought his own perspective to the episode. “We’ve been really intentional about this show—bringing stories about the youth, their challenges, and also their successes,” he said.

Also featured was Seattle’s Interagency Recovery High School, a unique institution with only 20 to 30 students and one of just 43 schools like it in the entire country. “It’s a school that prioritizes education and healing,” said Tavis. “A space where students can move forward in a healthy way.”

Catch this emotional and necessary episode of Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle this Saturday at 10:30 pm and catch the replay Sunday at 10 am on FOX 13 + or stream it on the FOX Local app.