Check Out JaNika Nash-Lightsey’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to JaNika Nash-Lightsey.

Hi JaNika, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
It’s really interesting how Access Granted came about; I turned 40 in May of this year and at the last minute, wanted to add a 360 Photobooth to the party vibe. Unfortunately, every business I called was already booked for the weekend of my party. I had a traditional photographer booked for the day, but I wanted to add a little more flare to the event. Turning 40 was not only a milestone year but celebrating with my closest family and friends meant so much to me. Nonetheless, I couldn’t find a 360 Photobooth owner available, which made me think about the possibilities of starting up my own company, and the rest is literally history. The inspiration of it all comes from my darling eight years old son, Johnathan Grant. He is a 3rd-grade student with a love for airplanes, building with Legos & race cars. He also has the most beautiful smile, perfect for any video or camera! The business name is actually inspired by him. I also made him an owner. Actually he is the owner, but my sister and I run the business. As a single mother, I wanted to find a way to secure a great future for Johnathan and to be able to support him with any endeavors he chooses to explore. I believe Access Granted will help me accomplish that. I come from a very loving and supportive family so when I shared the idea with my father, he gifted us the start-up costs and when I shared the excitement with my sister, Lynn, she excitedly accepted the offer to run the business with me. So Johnathan Grant, who is my son, myself and my sister Lynn Lightsey are the force that is Access Granted Premier Events. We launched one month ago and have enjoyed the journey thus far. Myself and my sister are both career women. I’m a licensed Social Worker and my sister is a Leasing Consultant, but Access Granted has been an additional source of excitement. We love interacting with people and putting a smile on their faces, Access Granted helps us make that happen!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Atlanta is such a beautiful city, with tons of entrepreneurs, especially young, minority-led businesses. That is a wonderful thing but it is also the Achilles Heel. The 360 Photobooth business is highly saturated in this city, however, we are determined to do our best and find ways that set us apart from other 360 Photobooth companies.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a licensed Social Worker in the state of Georgia. I’m a double alumna of Clark Atlanta University, graduating in 2017 with my master’s in clinical social work. Aside from being a mother, my connection to such a prestigious university makes me extremely proud and is one of my most major accomplishments. I have practiced in my role as a Social Worker in various ways by utilizing my skills as a community-based therapist; working with minor children and adults diagnosed with mental health disorders. I currently use my social work gifts at a homeless shelter located in West Midtown, where I am the Lead Social Worker, assisting women and children who are currently experiencing homelessness. I help them get connected to mental and physical healthcare, as well as refer them to resources for housing, amongst other services.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I just want to encourage everyone to explore their passions and go after them, no matter what! I have been so intentional with prayer and meditation, and that helps me to remain encouraged and think positively!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Accessgranted_360
• Facebook: Access Granted Premier Events
• Youtube: Access Granted Premier Events