#OHHEYSIS Vol. 1: Jasmine James
- Meek
- Aug 11, 2019
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 25, 2019
Name, Jasmine James
Chicago, IL
Businesses: Black Girl BeYOUtiful
Jasmine and I met in 2016 when we both started a masters program and since then she's always been such a light. So it's no wonder she began an organization like Black Girl BeYOUtiful, bringing light and love to girls all over the Chicagoland area. Jasmine is an inspirational community activist, teacher, wife, mommy-to-be, future doctorate holding boss and I'm so excited to share her journey with Black Girl BeYOUtiful with my #OHHEYSIS tribe. - Meek
Tell us more about Black Girl BeYOUtiful:
Black Girl BeYOUtiful is a Chicago faith based organization started in 2017. It aims to teach young girls ages 6-21 about self-love by focusing on mental health and trauma informed healing. Through weekly workshops, service learning projects, and a mentorship program, Black Girl BeYOUtiful strives to set the world on fire with authentic, individual black girlhood. Black Girl BeYOUtiful is a space for black girls to be themselves, share their life experiences and build bonds with girls whom share similar experiences as them. While also helping Black girls develop into agents for social change in their own communities. In a world where beauty is bought and sold, it is critical for Black girls to know that the real beauty lies within.
How long have you been in business?
Since October 2017
What made you start your own business?
After working with a group of young girls at my job I realized that there was no space for them to prioritize their mental health and work through their trauma.
What was the hardest thing you've had to deal with in business thus far?
Building support for my organization and its mission.
How did you overcome that?
In order to meet new people and introduce my organization, I networked like a crazy woman! I was at events all around the City of Chicago meeting new people and developing genuine bonds with other orgs and businesses.
What's been your biggest accomplishment?
Our two year anniversary event sold out and we were able to celebrate with over 200 families!
What or who inspires you in business?
Seeing the face of young women who finally have found "home" in our organization. They finally feel free enough to identify, address and release the trauma they have experience. Also, just building genuine bonds with other women and young girls is what inspires me to keep going.
What advice do you have for women looking to become entrepreneurs like you?
STEP OUT ON FAITH! Don't let fear block you from getting out there.
What's coming up for you and Black Girl BeYOUtiful?
Our goal is to complete our 501c3 status within the next year (although it is expensive! yikes!) Our long term goal is to find a set location for our organization where girls can come for after school/weekend programming.
You can check out more on Jasmine and Black Girl BeYOUtiful by following her on Facebook and Instagram @blackgirlbeyoutiful, and subscribing to her email list via her site blackgirlbeyoutiful.com
Black Girl BeYOUtiful is looking to build and expand their team! If you are interested in joining the Black Girl BeYOUtiful family do not hesitate to reach out!
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