Check Out Jan Jackson’s Story

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

Hi Jan, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The Bella Grind Brand concept came about originally during 2020. While relegated to my home like the rest of the world, I began to tap into my creative juices and really honed my gifts and skillsets. I was also impressed by what I saw women doing as we were going through such a difficult time. My social media feed was filled with black women leading movements for women and human rights, mental health, entrepreneurship, and self-care ….while navigating a pandemic themselves. I was so inspired because I too am a black woman, and I have the same capabilities as the women I was admiring. I shared many of their sentiments about what was happening to and around us, and I wanted to do something about it.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The process for building a brand and becoming an influencer has been a huge learning experience for me. I actually started this venture with reservation but willed myself to just “do it scared”. I am the actual product and face for my brand, and sometimes I feel I’m always on the go and certainly always out front. If I’m not careful to create “me time”, then burn-out is inevitable. I counteract it with daily affirmations, and I take inventory of my emotions and well-being. I listen to my body and do my best to give it what it needs so that I show up for the brand as my best self. I also give myself grace to fail forward because I’m learning something new about entrepreneurship daily, and I seek knowledge often by remaining inquisitive.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have 24 years of experience as an educator and servant leader. I’ve educated and supported black and brown families in the public school system and through my previous non-profit foundation, the Books For Miles Foundation. As a practitioner of social justice leadership, it has always been important to me that I am a bridge for those that are marginalized. Most of my advocacy is for black women and children, and some of my proudest work includes creating opportunities for family and community engagement for citizens in the city of South Fulton via the South Fulton Mental Health Collaborative, GendHer, and the Education Committee for the South Fulton Chamber. I am a true visionary who brings my passion, knowledge, and leadership to any project I’m a part of. That’s why it’s so important for me to launch the Bella Grind Brand so that my reach is greater as I focus on supporting women and young girls.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I would not be here now if it were not for women, young and old, who have poured into my knowledge bank. There is power in asking for help and seeking thought partners in the type of work I do, and I honestly don’t have to go far. Those who support me are within my network, and we support each other by sharing our insight and experience and providing hands-on modeling when needed. I encourage everyone to leverage those around them by building relationships and asking questions about others’ skillsets, gifts, and talents. It is the quickest way to effectively learn how to do something new or pivot from what you’re currently doing. The Bella Grind Brand prides itself on mentoring women and girls by building coalitions that bridge the gap for advancement.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bellagrind.com
• Instagram: @bella_grind_
• Facebook: @BellaGrindBrand
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4VQpLZgbHFGc6BC3klRTzw

Image Credits
Photos by Skyy Wonders Photography