Conversations with Jan Jackson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jan Jackson.

Hi Jan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
You ever pondered how to really hone in on what your purpose is? Or what you’ve been called to do? Better yet, how do you use your gifts to impact change, leave a mark, or create a legacy? Well I did, I took a hard look at what I was doing in life and how I was feeling and set out on a self-discovery mission to answer each of these questions for myself. When I found those answers…the Bella Grind Brand was birthed. By challenging myself, working with some amazing individuals, and taking a leap of faith, the brand achieved major success and created a space for black women.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I’ve learned some valuable lessons that turned into wins while establishing this brand.

1.) Know when to pivot. Change can be a good thing that pushes you to purpose.
2.) Be resourceful. Ask a lot of questions and leverage your network often.
3.) Celebrate small wins. When you do so, it keeps you motivated to keep going.
4.) Have a strategy for marketing your brand.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the founder and creative director of the Bella Grind Brand based in Atlanta, GA. My mission is to provide black women a space where their voices will be elevated and their stories celebrated via digital media platforms, inspirational apparel, and empowerment events. The Bella Grind Podcast and Magazine is a space for black women’s voices to be elevated and celebrated. The “SIMPLY JAN” Vlog captures a day in my life as a content creator as I share my daily grind while balancing family and friendships. Bella Grind Apparel is empowerment clothing with positive messages of self-love, awareness, and POWER. Fashion is a true form of expression, and this capsule is for the woman who lives out loud and stands boldly in her truth. Bella Grind Alliance is an outreach initiative to give back to others via signature events, service projects, mentoring, and speaking engagements. I’m also an educational leader and community leader in Metro Atlanta, known for my work with community engagement and wraparound support for educators, children, and families.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
In this season, I’ve learned to ask for what I need, and people will actually help. I grow and leverage my network often by creating positive and reciprocal relationships. It’s important to tap those persons in my network to mentor me based on my needs. Therefore, I have several mentors across all industries with different skill sets, knowledge, and talent. It is the most important strategy for scaling my business. Trust me…the universe will align if you simply ask the right people the right things and are willing to learn.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bellagrind.com
• Instagram: @bella_grind_
• Facebook: Bella Grind
• Youtube: @bellagrindtv

Image Credits
Photos by Skyy Wonders Photography