Meet Janea Jamison | Best Selling Author, Community Policy Advocate & Entrepreneur
What’s a quote that fuels your passion?
Use me, God. Show me how to take who I am, who I want to be, and what I can do, and use it for a purpose greater than myself." - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For years, I prayed for God to reveal my passion and purpose. Once this was discovered, I used this quote as a constant reminder that I am connected to a purpose or movement much bigger than myself.
Janea, your Humble Takeover is your story. Although one post could not tell your whole story, we are glad to highlight a few of your Great efforts. Tell the family where you started and how you got to where you are today.
I want to say I start from humble beginnings, growing up in a country rural town in Louisiana. My parents sacrificed to send me to Catholic school from Preschool through 12th grade. Through their sacrifice and the church's foundation, and my education, I was called to be a servant to others and the community. I haven't always had the answers, and many barriers throughout my life didn't always make sense at its current time, but I've always enjoyed helping others. The love and passion for helping others led me to policy advocacy, politics, and community engagement. On “The Yard”, Southern University, I used my voice in SGA and Alpha Kappa Alpha. I even began my career in politics through the Mayor's office at 19 years old. In grad school, I used that same voice and will to help others as a legislative assistant to a councilwoman in north Baton Rouge. I currently serve as the Program Director for the Power Coalition, a statewide 501c3 civic engagement table. Through this current work and experiences, I've used my voice to uplift the voices of Black folks throughout the state, lead GOTV and advocacy campaigns, and direct programs to fight for the freedom and liberation of Black people and people of color. I also utilize the power of my voice and relationships by hosting a weekly podcast, H.E.R. Story--which creates opportunities for critical dialogue and action for Black Women who have defied obstacles and turned them into success.
Which chapter in your story inspired your current venture?
Moments of uncertainty always cause me to buckle down and refocus. I must step outside of the box and tap into my creativity. In those moments of uncertainty, I am constantly reminded to pivot and be innovative no matter what the overall outcome, vision, or goal is-- I have to try at least. I learned this as early as 18 years old when I ran for Miss Freshman at Southern University. I was uncertain of the outcome, but I knew I had to work towards a specific goal or vision. I've used that experience to carry me throughout life. I always keep this in mind no matter what new project or program I am leading.
What keeps you Humble through your success and failure in Life?
I've been told I should celebrate myself more often and write down what I've accomplished. Until this day, I still haven't sat back and looked at how far I've come. I have a humble spirit because I know the things I do aren't for self-gratification or the acceptance of others. Again, my work is God-driven and connected to a more significant movement. I remain humble because I keep in mind it's not just about me, but it's what I can do to help those in need and amplify their voices. As it relates to failures, there are no failures-- only lessons learned.
What advice would you offer our family who is writing their own story?
Never give up. Many people will only share their success stories, and not how they had to overcome different barriers or shortcomings to get to where they are in life. Stand firm, and even when your goal seems unattainable, simply keep going.
Do you have any upcoming events or projects you would like to share?
I often promote events weekly. Please follow my Instagram page @janea_claire13.
We’d love to hear more stories, please suggest 5 other persons writing their own story and Conquering the World.
I recently dropped a best-seller, The HBCU Experience Movement: The Southern University System Edition. This book features 40 prominent alumni from the Southern University System. I encourage readers to purchase on amazon.com and read the stories of leaders throughout the country and how that HBCU experience has shaped them into the successful individuals they are today.
Contact Info:
- Website: linktr.ee/JaneaJ
- Email: janeajamison13@gmail.com
- Instagram: janea_claire13, @herstory_podcast, @powercoej
- Facebook: Janea Claire
Photographer: Clint Blane IG: @ClintBlane
Email: Clintblane@gmail.com
Website:clintblane.com
