Meet Donna Jacobs of RAGGz in RAGGz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Donna Jacobs.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My story as an entrepreneur began as me just trying to figure out what I wanted in life. I was interested in doing something for myself that I’d never done before so I decided to relocate out of the state of Georgia- where I’d been all my life up until I graduated undergrad from Clark Atlanta University. I called it ’my great migration’. I moved to Michigan for grad school with the impression that I would be exposed to the true freedoms of being an American adult, I set forth as a young, naive jit who was privileged to have lived in America’s real Wakanda for the previous 4 years of my life; I’m referring to my HBCU. Little did I know, this move would challenge me in so many ways, socially, systemically, mostly spiritually. I attended grad school and struggled badly with culture shock and being homesick, so I decided I would get my degree and head back home immediately, but those were my plans. It was obvious that God had different plans; he instructed me to stay after I graduated. I obeyed hesitantly, ugh. I didn’t know the extent of work I would have to do in order for God to use me. I was also so focused on the future, I couldn’t see that the glory of God was allowing me the space and time to heal from generational trauma, time to enjoy my own existence which led to joy and self- love and no lie, He also walked me through my blueprint for starting my business. I experienced some challenges along the way, but I was also definitely privileged in travel and gaining self-development. Those six years of being on my personal journey with God, without close family, and minimal distractions all while navigating social discomforts, is what has gotten me to this point. It truly helped me find myself and provided me with answers about what I really wanted.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Where would you like me to start? Struggle shapes character for sure. It’s inevitable and although everyone’s struggle may look different, we all can relate to the act of struggling. Always keep in mind though, struggle is followed by triumph. The year 2015 showed me that when I was subjected to pre-diagnosed cervix cancer. The doctors assumed that that’s what it was which had to be determined by a biopsy- the appointment was weeks down the road due to the extensive demand for appointments. During that time, I leaned closer to God and he revealed so many things to me that ultimately gave me the vision for RAGGz. I started doing research on Wholistic Health and natural paths of healing the body without chemicals or man-made drugs. I desired it so much for myself at the time. I knew that if I was going to have to battle cancer, I needed to be vigilant and gather as much information as I could in order to stay well. I even struggled after being released from my doctors- cancer-free. I now realize it was because I didn’t understand that the revelation that was attached to this struggle was not just for me. I had to go through that in order to get into position to truly help others. Not even knowing that it would be my products- RAGGz Body BUTTAz that supports cancer warriors who are battling chemo and struggling with skin conditions as a result of it. It’s still surreal to receive testimonies about how RAGGz Body BUTTAz serves a broad range of people; and based on testimonies our products are delicate enough for nourishing babies skin and powerful enough to prevent hair loss during chemo and keep the skin healed and moisturized.

Please tell us about RAGGz.
RAGGz is a holistic health and wellness company that provides products and services to youth, families and communities that helps people lead happier, healthier lives. I’m CEO, Founder, social entrepreneur who believes in using capitalism to eliminate poverty, inequity, social degradation and oppression. I specialize in the healing modalities of Yoga and Therapeutic Discussion to help youth, families and communities deal with unresolved trauma and issues that tend to hold us back from being the best we can be. It’s surely a multi-layered organization because it has always been my passion to help and serve others, while unfortunate situations have empowered me to choose me first. So if I had to describe my company, it would definitely emphasize self-love with an overarching goal of ‘For The People’. I want people to be self- reliant when it comes to healing and being responsible for unpacking their own emotional baggage. I also believe in doing what’s best for self on behalf of self-preservation. Let‘s be honest, it takes very special people to serve those who need support but who have not yet reached self-realization, all while remaining true to their own personal process. Based on my experience, when we avoid prioritizing ourselves, we may encounter unavoidable chaos. I like to call this ‘resistance meets struggle’. I’ve learned hard lessons about this in my former profession of School Social Work. The five-year experience taught me that just because you’re available to offer help, doesn’t mean that everyone is available to receive it. Therefore, I like to envision myself as a seed planter. One who stays present in the moment by giving only what I can OR what can be received. I also release the attachment to the outcome; because I believe we all will receive the help we need when we’re ready to receive it. RAGGz Academy is a daily testament to that because being able to use my lessons and skills to bless the lives of our future generations is where I find joy and contentment in the process of building my long-lasting legacy. It also motivates me to take my time at being authentically me as CEO, and RAGGz will surely follow. I would also say that’s what sets me apart from others. I’m dedicated to doing what makes me whole and well at all times.

If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Hmmm…. I honestly think I would’ve surrendered to the process, released the pain, danced in the rain a lot sooner. God has a plan for each of us in order for us to be where we need to be as a society based in humility. The longer you wait to adhere to the calling on your life, the longer those who depend on you will have to wait… don’t let it be too late.

Pricing:

• Save 10% off your first purchase at RAGGz.org using code: VOYAGEATL (all caps)
• Email: Contact@raggzbodyboutique for more information about bookings for one-on-one/ group yoga and healing workshops, for public speaking and/or panel discussions,
• Shea Aloe Hemp (RAGGz Body BUTTAz)- $15
• Amen Joy for Men (RAGGz Body BUTTAz)- $17
• Mango Miracle Whip (RAGGz Body BUTTAz)- $20
• Shea Aloe Hemp Shimmer (RAGGz Body BUTTAz)-$17

Contact Info:

• Website: www.RAGGz.org
• Email: Contact@raggzbodyboutique
• Instagram: @thedonnamaria
• Facebook: Donna Maria Jacobs
• Other: Business Instagram & Facebook: @raggzbodyboutique

Image Credit:
Professional Photos By: @SoSADPhotography (FB & IG)

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