From a Call with the Clintons to Live-Sketching a President at CGI 2024

When Elijah McKenzie-Jackson received a call from the Clintons, inviting him to attend and cover the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) 2024 in New York City, there was only one answer—yes.

As one of the most influential convenings in global politics, CGI 2024 championed key efforts in climate action, inequality, and public health, issues deeply aligned with Elijah’s mission. But this wasn’t just any invitation—it was a rare and extraordinary opportunity to live-sketch some of the most iconic figures of our time, including President Joe Biden.

Given full access to the event, Elijah captured history in real-time, illustrating powerful discussions with President Biden, President Bill Clinton, Prince Harry, Dr. Jane Goodall, and other global changemakers shaping the future of climate and social justice. Live-sketching a sitting U.S. President is no small feat—it’s a moment of immense artistic and historical significance, turning fleeting discussions into lasting visual narratives.

Created with pencil on paper, these sketches document the defining moments of CGI 2024, translating dialogue into art and offering a unique perspective on leadership, activism, and progress through the lens of Gen Z.

Elijah reflected on the experience:
"Live-sketching a President, world leaders, and icons of change isn’t just about capturing their likeness—it’s about capturing the energy of the moment. Art makes history tangible, and being able to translate these discussions into visual storytelling is something I’ll carry with me forever."

This moment further solidifies Elijah’s role in redefining how activism and storytelling intersect, using art to make conversations seen, felt, and remembered.

His sketches have now been released online in collaboration with the Clinton Global Initiative’s social media accounts, immediately gathering 150,000 viewers and expanding the reach of these critical discussions.

A special thank you to the Clinton Global Initiative team for welcoming this collaboration and making it possible. Stay tuned for more live sketches coming soon!