Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Sims.
Hi Jasmine, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Have you ever stumbled upon something you had no idea you needed or even possessed the ability to bring to fruition? Well, that’s how LYT (Live Your Truth—pronounced lit) came to be. Social media plays a significant role in our lives. There was no difference when forming LYT. Facebook is actually where the idea began back in 2016, around my 27th birthday. It really goes down in the DMs (Ha! LOL) y’all! It began with someone messaging me telling me how I was a role model(insert imposter syndrome-because who me? ), resulting in me sharing a very transparent post. The post gained more attention than I expected, and the idea of hosting an event came to me. If I’m honest, the idea of LYT was supposed to be a one-and-done kind of event and not what it continues to grow into today. It has been a tell God your plans kind of situation, and we all know how that goes.
Almost five years later, yes, LYT turns 5 this November. There have been 2 conferences in two states, 3 Purpose Hikes, several meetups, and an abundance of support poured into the LYT tribe. The goal of Live Your Truth is to create a safe space for young black professionals to have access to resources to help them live their truths while understanding their imperfections (because none of us are perfect). The focus areas are financial literacy, mental health, and personal/professional development.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road for LYT has been anything but smooth. It began with much resistance on my behalf. When the idea for LYT came about, I ran from it for several months. It took having a conversation with a really ah-mazing former colleague (Dr.Jett) who believed in me and challenged me to go for it. I’ll never forget her saying, “It can be done and it’s possible. But if you’re going to do it, then you have to DO it! ” It was just the push I needed. So I did it! Six months later (November 2017), the first LYT Weekend conference came to fruition. Over the last 5 years, LYT has grown to curate more events and support other brands and businesses.
If you’ve ever planned, organized, or curated anything, you know the work required to make it happen. So, during the planning and establishment of LYT and its events, there were several bumps along the way. Lack of funding and being a team of one were probably two of the most difficult struggles I’ve faced so far. Being an educator and funding every LYT event became extremely difficult at times, but I knew people needed what LYT had to offer. In those moments, I learned that it was okay to seek help and that building a solid team takes time.
I’d be remiss not to mention the roles fear and perfectionism have played in my journey, both personally and professionally. With any new endeavor, fear is usually present. Fear has caused me to miss opportunities to grow and expand. Fear has been the reason I didn’t think I could run an organization. Fear has caused me to want to give up on several occasions. I’m also a perfectionist, and it feeds into my fears at times. I like things to be done a certain way and to flow well, and at times when it hasn’t I’ve felt defeated. Through these bumps, I have rallied a support system who help lessen the load, provides counsel, and offers assistance when and where there is a need. While all the aforementioned are a part of the process of building a brand or business, I wouldn’t change the journey at all. I’m still learning and evolving in business. I’d encourage anyone with aspirations to start a business or build a brand to keep going. It will truly be worth it in the end.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an educator, and I currently teach and tutor middle school mathematics. I am most proud of being the LYT visionary and the ability to continue to grow Live Your Truth. Being able to connect people and setting the vibe are two things that set me apart from others. I am a proud member of the “Never Meet A Stranger” club (thanks mom!), and I am known to set a positive atmosphere anywhere I go. Whether it’s on a hiking trail giving directions and pointers to new hikers or at brunch getting the party started. I love making others feel safe and welcome.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I wouldn’t say luck has played a significant role in my life and business, but definitely grace and favor. As a believer, I have witnessed God offer me grace when I didn’t offer it to myself and favor when I didn’t feel I deserved it, both personally and in business.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liveyourtruthwknd/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LYTWknd
Image Credits
Jassmine Smith Teraneshia Nash Nate Fox
