Daily Inspiration: Meet Danielle V. Jackson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle V. Jackson.

Hi Danielle V., so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m from Southwest Atlanta, where I was born and raised. I came up through the Atlanta Public Schools, starting at Kimberly Elementary, then Ralph Bunche Middle School, and later Frederick Douglass High School. I went on to graduate from Clark Atlanta University. I’ve always felt drawn to communication and community. When I got to college, I knew I wanted to make it part of my studies. My advisor encouraged me to explore opportunities that opened my eyes to what was possible, and those experiences expanded my understanding of how journalists and communicators can create real impact. My career has taken me through different industries, each one teaching me something new. Along the way, I discovered the work that truly gives me purpose: helping others succeed. That purpose has guided me in every role I’ve taken on and continues to be at the center of what motivates me today.

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?
The road hasn’t always been easy. I came close to dropping out of college. I faced health challenges. I lost people I loved in heartbreaking ways. I was laid off from my first real job. And those are only the experiences I feel comfortable naming out loud. What I’ve learned, though, is that every leader who shows up with strength has walked through something hard. I’m no different. I’ve been lifted by people who believed in me, encouraged me, and pushed me forward when I wasn’t sure I had anything left to give. My struggles have shaped the way I see the world. They’ve helped me connect with the lived experiences of others, fueled my desire to advocate for people who deserve better, and reminded me that representation matters. Most importantly, they’ve taught me how to be resilient and how to keep choosing purpose, even when the path gets rough.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a senior Inclusion & Engagement leader dedicated to creating strategies, programs, and workplaces where people feel seen, valued, and supported. In my role at FirstKey Homes, I guide the company’s employee engagement strategy and lead initiatives that strengthen inclusion and belonging at every level of the organization. My commitment to this work extends beyond my day‑to‑day. I stay deeply connected to the community through advisory boards and local councils, partnering with organizations that champion leadership, equity, and empowerment. These spaces fuel my belief in what is possible when people come together with purpose. Throughout my career, I’ve become known as a connector, someone who brings individuals and communities together across workplaces, professional networks, and entrepreneurial circles to foster learning, collaboration, and genuine relationships. With roots in journalism and mass media, I approach communication with clarity, empathy, and creativity, helping teams and leaders express their purpose in ways that resonate. The impact of this work has been measurable. My leadership has supported organizations in making real progress in inclusion and belonging, earning recognition and inspiring others to raise the bar. At the heart of it all, I am committed to helping people navigate challenges, strengthen connections, and unlock their potential. Whether through employee resource groups, community partnerships, or one‑on‑one support, I focus on empowering others to overcome roadblocks, build meaningful relationships, and turn their passion into meaningful work.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain focused on caring for our residents, strengthening the communities we serve, and empowering our team members because we know that when our employees are supported and our communities thrive, our residents benefit most. As the first single-family rental (SFR) organization to dedicate resources to building a culture of inclusion, FirstKey Homes is proud to remain a thought leader in our industry. Through innovative programming, partnerships, and open communication, we are setting a new standard for inclusion and engagement in the SFR space.

Image Credits
Cody Pike