Category Archives: On The Rise

On the Rise: Jereshia Hawk

Posted in Career, Empowerment, Fashion, Finance, Life after., On The Rise by

IMG_2522Denis Waitley, a well-known motivational speaker and author once mentioned that “There are two primary choices in life: to accept conditions as they exist, or accept responsibility for changing them.At the age of 10, Jereshia Hawk was placed in an uncomfortable situation. Growing up without both of her parents, she knew early on that she couldn’t let her negative circumstances consume her. At 19, the only family member that was providing for her passed away and left Jereshia with much more than grievance, but a five-year old son and a grandmother to take care of. From modeling to owning a successful online fashion store, Jereshia made it her duty to strive for success while taking care of her family. She recently launched Empoweryoudaily.org, a website designed with aspiring others to reach their full potential despite the obstacles they might face.Let’s learn more about Jereshia’s journey.

Where were you six months after college?

I was very fortunate to have a job waiting for me. At the time, I was part of an Engineering Developmental Program which offered me the opportunity to learn about the company through their rotations. Being part of the program helped me figure out what I wanted out of my career as an engineer.

What attracted you to civil engineering?

Growing up I loved playing Sims and building houses. While in high school, a teacher recognized my curiosity and exposed me to engineering and architecture. I attended Iowa University for Architecture, however after my aunt passed away, I knew I wouldn’t be able to provide for myself and my family, so I returned home to West Michigan University and majored in Civil Engineering.

How did you balance your entrepreneurial journey (modeling, acting, business owner) while you were pursuing your education?

I love being busy, it keeps me going and alive. During those times, I relied heavily on time management. I was strategic about every step of my life because not only did I have to further my education, I also had to provide for my family who were depending on me. From Monday to Thursday I was focused on my education; Thursday evening to Sunday night I was on the road.

At the end of the day my motivation came from losing both of my parents at a younger age but also providing for my little cousin and grandmother. I had to create opportunities for myself.

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Learn How To Shine in Your Professional and Personal Life with Brand Maker, Rana Campbell

Posted in Career, Empowerment, On The Rise, Uncategorized by

Industry: Marketing

Hat: Founder and Editor-in-Chief, RanaCampbell.com

School: Princeton University

Major: B.A, Sociology

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Rana Campbell realized early on that in order to live a purposeful life, one must have balance in their professional and personal life, if not it can be overwhelming. In fact she set forth creating a Blog( Ranacampbell.com) to help others SHINE and be successful in their journey. Besides managing her blog and a full-time job as marketing specialist, Rana’s passion for writing has opened up endless opportunities which lead her work to appearing on The Huffington Post, Princeton Alumni Weekly, etc. Let’s find out more about her.

1.Where were you 6 months after graduating from college?

Luckily for me, I had a job before graduating from college. I was three months into my fellowship at the Vera Institute of Justice. However, I was navigating the world of what it meant to be a young professional. It was during those stages that I started both my branding consultation and writing freelance.

2.What are 3 Job search tips you have for current college graduates?

A- You have to get out there and meet people, both (online & offline). Get to know people in the industry you want to be in. Do your research and send emails. Definitely, don’t be afraid to make new relationships but most importantly be open to talk to people who are not in your industry as well. It’s usually those 3rd degree connections that are better at getting you jobs rather than your first degree.

B- Have a passion, have something that you can show/talk people. Find something that is memorable. Pursue something that is important to you

C- Think outside the box. Make your cover letter/ resume stand out. Reach out to the employer by picking up the phone.

3.How can one stay positive when life is hitting you from all sides?

I am not the best at it but I am still learning. My friend has a tattoo that says “This Too Shall Pass.” Meaning whatever you’re going through is only temporary and it will get better with time. No matter how big you think your roadblock may be, you have to step back from the situation, collect yourself and think about the positives.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9IPS3rUZFU

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GENESE JAMILAH: THE GO -TO WOMAN WITH ALL THE TOP NOTCH EVENTS

Posted in On The Rise, Out and About by

Industry: Digital Production

Hats: Founder and Editor-in-Chief, I Don’t Do Clubs, Digital Production Manager at Ebony Magazine

School: Savannah State University

Major: B.A, Mass Communications

In the past couple of weeks, you might have come across “30 Best Summer Trips for Black Professionals In 2015” from the blog, “I Don’t Do Clubs”, floating around on your social media networks. If you’re a social butterfly like me, this list was a saving grace. The woman behind the list, is Genese Jamilah, the Editor in Chief “I Don’t Do Clubs.”

20141105_201318Before becoming the go-to woman for young professionals who are looking for a “different way to party,” Genese moved from Atlanta to New York City, where she set forth to find where young professionals, commonly known as ‘yo-pros,” like herself were hanging out. Since entering her new venture, Genese’s blog has gained the attention and trust of young professionals across major cities in the United States. Besides managing her blog, Genese is also the Digital Production Manager for Ebony Magazine.

  1. We know you as the Digital Production Manager at Ebony, events connoisseur and blogger, which title do you enjoy more? 

It has to be Editor of “I Don’t Do Clubs”. It’s my project, which captures my voice; I don’t report to anyone. Although I love what I do at Ebony, blogging has helped me reach out to an audience that has become part of my family, I feel like I am helping others connect and network.

  1. Where were you 6 months after you graduated from Savannah State University? 

I was contemplating on my next move, which was moving to New York City. Although I love being in Georgia, I always wanted to experience the NYC scene.

  1. Where did you work prior to Ebony?

I interned at CNN, worked at Six Flags Corporation, where I oversaw 16 websites and also managed Scholastic.com – the parent’s editorial section.

IDDC_logo_no_tagline    4. Fast forward to 2011, what sparked the idea to create a blog?

At the time, I was working at Hot 97.1 and I was rubbing shoulders with bloggers all the time and I was intrigued by how they were using their platform to share information but also monetizing it. So one day I picked up a book called “Angel’s Laws of Blogging” by the blogging maven Angel Law, which focuses on utilizing a blog as a business venture. From choosing the right name, to managing comments the book covers the basic and vital parts of blogging. I ended up reading the book within a few days because I was stuck in the house due to Hurricane Sandy. I would definitely encourage any bloggers out there to read this book.

  1. How do you monetize on your blog?

At the beginning stages of the blog I used Google ads, however once I was overwhelmed with submission I started charging $12 and eventually created sponsorship and speaking engagements packets.

  1. Do you notice a change on how millennials are networking?

Millennials are creating more ways to network which each other by merging it with an activity, which makes it comfortable to talk to strangers and exchange information. Regardless of the new methods, networking demands keeping in touch in order to keep the relationship going.

  1. Did you ever imagine the blog being such a huge success?

At first, not really. However, I realized that it was appreciated when others who shared the same sentiments as me, sent messages about how much they love the idea and also the events I promote.

  1. What are your top three favorite places for happy hour in NYC?
  1. What advice would you give to an aspiring editor or writer?

Decide early on which route you want to take whether it’s the technical/ coding or writing aspect. Internships will definitely help you find which one best fit you.

  1. Imagine you are writing a letter to your younger self; what would you say to her?

Dear Genese,

Don’t be afraid to move; don’t limit yourself. Think beyond New York, California, perhaps? What about going abroad? You overthink things; go with the flow. Things will work [out] eventually.

Stay connected with Genese

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