GoodHeart | TikTok creator turns everyday moments into impact
Published:Saturday | February 7, 2026 | 12:07 AM
Popular TikTok creator Manawe Simpson, known online as JD, has built a loyal following by sharing authentic moments of fatherhood, family life and everyday realities. Beyond the videos and viral moments, he has also earned recognition for his consistent commitment to giving back, whether through time, effort, encouragement or tangible support.
Raised in a single-parent household with his mother and four siblings, Simpson grew up in Franklin Town, Kingston, where financial challenges were part of daily life. He recalls a childhood shaped not only by hardship, but by love, sharing and togetherness. Though his mother was a strict parent, she ensured her children never felt deprived of care, organising birthday celebrations, rewarding good performance in school and instilling lifelong values.
“She (his mother) taught us to treat everyone with dignity, stay humble and give what we could, even when we didn’t have much,” Simpson added.
Now at 40, Simpson carries these lessons as a daily practice. Before social media expanded his reach, his life followed a routine nine-to-five, working as a customer service manager while spending time dancing with his children and peers. Away from the spotlight, his most cherished moments are family dinners, small outings and being fully present at home.
“Family is everything to me. Spending quality time with my kids is golden,” Simpson said. “So many people told me they wished they had that kind of relationship with their father, and that’s when I realised people were watching more closely than I thought.”
As his platform grew, Simpson became more intentional about what he shared, ensuring his content reflected the values he lives by offline. He describes himself as someone others naturally look up to within his personal circle, a role he now approaches with greater responsibility.
He has led local hurricane relief efforts and quietly supported individuals facing personal hardships, including a mother from Rose Town and others who sought his help and encouragement.
One such moment unfolded when a roadside vendor and father, who supports his family by selling drinks and snacks at stoplights, reached out to Simpson after health challenges disrupted his livelihood. Medical expenses had exhausted the vendor’s savings, forcing him to pause his business altogether.
Recognising the weight of that setback, Simpson stepped in by purchasing supplies to help the vendor restart his small business and regain independence.
“His response when the supplies were delivered showed just how appreciative he was,” Simpson shared, adding, “He was committed to using them to rebuild and expand the business.”
Since then, Simpson has continued to check in, encouraged by the vendor’s progress and determination.
“I’ve been in need before, so anytime I’m in a position to help, I try. But I also have to make sure my own cup isn’t empty,” he explained.
His acts of kindness focus on practical support that meets people where they are. That same approach guides his plans moving forward. Beginning this year, Simpson intends to host annual back-to-school treats in August and December, initiatives designed to ease the financial strain many families face at the start of the school year and in the period after the holidays.
On January 30, Malta honoured Simpson for his continued efforts to uplift others, presenting him with a basket of appreciation inspired by the spirit behind The Good You Give campaign.
“Even a kind word or a prayer can make a difference,” he explained. “Sometimes people just need to know that someone cares.”