Check Out Selena Ross’ Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Selena Ross.

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 began at age 12 when I secured my first job at a Chrysler Union local office. Although the position required someone 18 or older, I arrived prepared—with a résumé, confidence, and strong typing skills. I tested at over 70 words per minute and earned the role. By age 15, I had completed high school, and during that time, I worked with my computer science teacher, Mr. Mickens, to successfully write a grant that brought Apple computers to our high school technology program in Detroit, Michigan. I also completed a hands-on project building a computer, experiences that shaped my work ethic, confidence, and commitment to excellence.

Today, most of my clients come through word-of-mouth referrals across Georgia, Michigan, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. I am an accomplished Executive Business Strategist with over 15 years of experience in project management, specializing in nonprofit and hybrid organizations. I also serve as a college educator, community advocate, and team leader, helping organizations grow sustainably while empowering leaders, students, and communities to thrive.

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?
No, the journey has not always been smooth. As a woman working across nonprofit, corporate, and male-dominated spaces, I’ve faced barriers related to access, credibility, and leadership dynamics. I’ve navigated organizational politics, limited resources, and moments when my expertise was questioned despite proven results. Building sustainable programs often requires persistence, resilience, and the ability to advocate for myself and others while staying mission-focused. However, each challenge strengthened my leadership, sharpened my strategic thinking, and deepened my commitment to equity, education, and community impact. Those struggles didn’t stop me; they shaped the leader I am today.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

I am an Executive Business Strategist, educator, and nonprofit leader specializing in organizational development, workforce training, compliance, and sustainable growth for nonprofits, small businesses, and hybrid organizations. I’m known for building strong systems, empowering leaders, and helping mission-driven organizations move from vision to execution. My work bridges strategy and implementation; not just planning, but building structures that actually work.

What I’m most proud of is creating pathways for underserved communities through education, nonprofit leadership, and school development, including launching Professor Academy of the Elite and supporting organizations across multiple states. What sets me apart is my hybrid expertise across nonprofit and for-profit sectors, my early start in professional leadership, and my ability to combine operational excellence with heart-centered, community-driven impact.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?

My biggest advice is: don’t try to do everything yourself. Build a team early, even if that means partnering with high school or college students who need experience, service hours, or letters of recommendation. I’ve successfully used coursework and class projects as real-world assignments that benefited both students and organizations.

I also wish I had known sooner how deeply culture impacts leadership, especially for women. Being raised by strong men, I was surprised to later encounter environments where women were still viewed as secondary, but learning how to navigate those spaces with confidence, boundaries, and strategy was essential. Stay grounded, trust your voice, and build systems that support you, not just your mission.

Pricing:

• Is there any pricing information that is relevant to our readers? If so, and if you would like us to share it, please include details (in bullet form) below.
• Consulting (Non-Profit & Small Business Strategy) Initial Strategy Session: $150 (60 minutes) Project Planning & Execution: $1,500–$5,000 (varies by scope)
• Organizational Training & Workshops Half-Day Workshop (up to 4 hours): $1,250 Full-Day Workshop (6–8 hours): $2,250 Custom Training Series: $3,000+ (based on customization)
• Nonprofit Start-Up Services 501(c)(3) Application Support (Form Prep Assistance): $750–$1,250 Board Development & Governance Consultation: $1,000+
• Workforce Development Program Support Program Evaluation & Curriculum Design: $2,500+ Implementation Support (per month): $1,000+

Contact Info:

• Website: www.UBIZE.us
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/selena.taress
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/selena-buchanan-ross-750b89140