Justin Lee was raised in Jefferson, Texas, by his loving mother, Jennifer Moon, alongside his Lola, Patricia Moon, and Lolo, Ben Moon, Sr. Growing up in a close-knit rural community, he experienced the richness of both his Filipino and Black American heritage, surrounded by a family that instilled in him the values of hard work, respect, and perseverance. His upbringing was filled with family gatherings, storytelling, and traditions that blended the best of both cultures, from sharing soulful Southern meals to celebrating Filipino customs.

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From an early age, Justin had a deep love for the outdoors. Whether it was fishing at the local lake with his Lolo, exploring the countryside with his pets, or participating in 4-H with friends, he cherished every moment spent outside. He also enjoyed bonding through watching sports with his Lolo. His time spent with his grandfather fostered his appreciation for teamwork and competition, which later translated into his involvement in Boy Scouts and baseball.

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Although he was primarily raised by his mother’s side of the family, Justin also valued the moments he spent with his father, Jason Lee’s side of the family. Though their time together was less frequent, he appreciated the connections and experiences shared with them. Whether catching up at family gatherings or hearing stories about their own life journeys, those interactions helped shape his understanding of family, identity, and resilience.

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However, like many adjusting to life after the COVID-19 pandemic, Justin faced challenges reconnecting with his passions. The sudden shift to isolation took a toll on his educational interests, and the loss of his beloved Lolo only deepened his struggles. Without his fishing trips, sports discussions, and community interactions, he felt disconnected from the activities and relationships that once brought him joy.

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Recognizing his need for support, his Tita V (Aunt Vanessa) and Aunt Chrisondra stepped in to encourage and mentor him, refusing to let him settle for anything less than his full potential. They pushed him beyond what he believed was possible, challenging him to rise above his struggles while providing a balance of discipline and unwavering support. They reminded him of his strength, cultural roots, and the legacy of resilience within his family, reinforcing that setbacks were only stepping stones toward success.

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With their guidance, Justin slowly rediscovered his love for learning and leadership, finding his way back to academics, outdoor activities, and personal growth. They held him accountable, encouraged him to embrace challenges head-on, and instilled in him the belief that he was capable of achieving greatness. Their relentless support didn’t just motivate him—it transformed him.

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Through their influence, Justin reignited his passion for excellence, setting higher goals for himself and embracing the discipline required to achieve them. They taught him that greatness isn’t just about talent, but about perseverance, effort, and an unshakable belief in oneself while serving others. He's served on the Breakfast Ministry at his church, participated in neighborhood cleanups, and served the homeless community through the House of Bread. He's also engaged in Student Ministry and Alpha course in pursuit of a better understanding of God and his faith. This foundation has shaped him into the driven and accomplished young man he is today, ready to take on any challenge the future holds.