Daily Inspiration: Meet Nicole Jones-Harper

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Jones-Harper.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey has been anything but traditional, but every step has shaped who I am and the work I do today. I began my career in broadcasting, working as a technical director, producer, and reporter even shooting sports coverage. That experience taught me the power of storytelling and communication, as well as how media can inform, inspire, and create change.
Later, I transitioned into corrections, where I saw firsthand how systemic issues and a lack of opportunity can shape lives and futures. Those experiences ultimately led me to education, where I found my true calling. As a Career and Technical Education teacher, I work to equip students with real-world skills while also helping them see their own potential. My work — both in the classroom and beyond is focused on disrupting the school-to-prison pipeline and creating pathways to success for young people, especially those from underserved communities.
Today, as I pursue my doctorate in Adult and Career Education, my mission is to build programs and opportunities that change trajectories, giving students the tools and confidence they need to succeed. It’s been a journey of growth, resilience, and purpose and it’s far from over. I am also a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. !

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I’ve learned that challenges often build the strongest foundation. For a long time, I was a single parent, and balancing work, school, and raising children wasn’t easy. There were moments when resources were limited and the path forward felt uncertain. I even relied on Section 8 housing at one point.
But I never let those circumstances define me or hold me back. Instead, they fueled my determination to create a better future for myself and my family. Through persistence and faith, I not only advanced in my career and education but also became a real estate agent something I once thought was out of reach.
Every obstacle taught me resilience and reinforced my belief that with hard work and perseverance, you can transform your life and open doors you never imagined possible.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At my core, I’m a creative and everything I do stems from that. I have a B.A. in Art, and that foundation has shaped the way I approach every part of my work. Today, I wear several hats: I’m an educator, a producer, an editor, a real estate agent, and someone deeply committed to building opportunities for others.
In the classroom, I teach students how to produce and edit films and short films, guiding them through the entire creative process from concept to final cut. I love watching them discover their voices through storytelling and gain skills that can translate into real-world careers. It’s more than just teaching technical skills. it’s about showing them what’s possible and helping them see their potential beyond the classroom.
What sets me apart is the range of experiences I bring to the table. I’ve worked behind the scenes in broadcasting as a technical director, producer, reporter, and sports videographer. I’ve served in corrections, which gave me firsthand insight into the systemic barriers many young people face. And as a real estate agent, I’m passionate about helping others build generational wealth and stability.
I’m also deeply driven by a personal experience . I nearly lost my life to a pulmonary embolism. That moment changed everything for me. It reminded me that life is short and precious, and it’s why I push myself to the limits and embrace every opportunity I can. I want to leave a lasting impact and show my students, my community, and even my own family that no obstacle is too great to overcome.
I’m most proud of the fact that, no matter the field, my work has always centered around creating opportunities, whether through education, creativity, or access. My journey has been anything but linear, but that’s what makes my perspective unique. I know firsthand how art, storytelling, and second chances can change lives, and I bring that belief into everything I do.

What were you like growing up?
Looking back, I was really fortunate to have a good childhood. My parents worked hard to provide for our family, my father retired from both the Army and the fire department, and my mother worked tirelessly to make sure we were taken care of during his deployments. Their dedication and sacrifices gave me a strong foundation and taught me the value of hard work and perseverance.
Personality-wise, I was always curious, creative, and eager to try new things. I loved exploring different interests and was never afraid to step outside my comfort zone, which is probably why I’ve worn so many hats in my career. That curiosity and determination I had as a child have stayed with me into adulthood and continue to guide everything I do today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://the-homegirl.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolejones_tv?igsh=MTExczhheTFoc25nMA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1YxSwN2fpf/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@isoldwithnicole22?si=iUdSy2Psl50JXlpv
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/kendrickhighfilm?igsh=amk3cnVqdXY0dDE%3D&utm_source=qr