Meet Jessica Daniels | Social Media Influencer, Business Owner & DEI Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica Daniels and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Life is about taking risks. “If you don’t take a risk, you’ll never know victory or defeat.” Risks can be so scary because we do not always know what could be on the other side of them. Sometimes they work out in our favor and sometimes they do not. The peace you find in taking risks are the lessons that come from them. You miss 100% of the shots you do not take. This way of thinking has played a pivotal part in my life and career. About 4 years ago I was in a job I was extremely unhappy with. I decided to quit with no back-up plan and take a risk to pursue my dream job. Every day I would look at myself in the mirror and tell myself positive affirmations. Within three months I had manifested my dream job. Despite what fears I had I knew that I needed to take that risk to reap what my true desires were. This is just one example of how taking risks is so necessary in life. It builds character! Do not be afraid to step out on faith and take risks!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Growing up in the inner city of Cleveland, Ohio, the odds were not necessarily in my favor to succeed. I was surrounded by violence, and I knew exceedingly early education was my way out. A pivotal point for me was in middle school, where I had the opportunity to attend a Magnet school. This meant catching three buses and walking a significant amount every day to get a better opportunity, but I was determined. This opportunity opened the door for me to attend one of the most prominent high schools in Cleveland, Ohio by the name of John Hay High School. The opportunity at John Hay opened the door for college to be an option for me. I attended Wright State University where I obtained my B.A in International Studies with a minor in religion. My experiences at WSU allowed me to pursue my master’s in College Student Personnel where I received my M.S.Ed from Southern Illinois University of Carbondale. I went to work full time at a few universities as a Residence Hall Director and subsequently moved into a role where I served as an Assistant Director of Multicultural & Black and African American Student Success. After I served as a Chief Equity Officer. I am currently work on my 2nd master’s degree in Law (MLS) and currently pursing my SHRM CP certification in Human Resorces. In addition to being an Influencer. I am now a business owner where I own my own Corporate Housing Company.

My brand is so important to me because it directly correlates with my story and struggles. I used to be over 350lbs. Life was hard. I was so uncomfortable, and I decided I no longer wanted this for myself. After losing over 100lbs I created my brand to show case and promote a healthy lifestyle. In addition, to let folx know that you did not need to be a size 2 to look good in clothing. I wanted to be an inspiration and to allow for fashion ideas and tips for plus size women. Along with a few names changes I landed on “itsme_gorjess” and have not looked back.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I LOVE LOVE LOVE phoenix. It is one of the most beautiful places ever. I still cannot believe I get to wake up to mountains and palm trees every day. If you are ever in town my go to places is Sedona! If you are here, you must visit Sedona. It is one of the most beautiful places on this planet with tons of shopping, nature, and eatery. Another place to visit is Westgate. If you are looking for a nice crowd of people with shopping and fun that is the place to be. Another place for me is North Mountain if you are looking for hiking or great scenery that is a wonderful place to check out. Downtown Tempe is nice as well for the college seen. One of my new favorite things to attend is First Fridays and the Vegan Market that happens the first and second weeks of the month.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give a personal shout out to my mother. She has played a pivotal role in my life. I watched my mom do it all on her own to provide for my brother and myself. She always made sure there were clothes on our backs, and food on the table. She has supported my dreams and kept me motivated when the light at the end of the tunnel appeared to be dim. She is my rock, and I would not be where I am today without her.

Instagram: itsme_gorjess

Image Credits
IG: Marikaphotography_ Marika Pratt