This lady right here is an amazing business person, a really cool, well-spoken woman and a fashion barista! I met Jinnae Monroe at a networking meeting about a year ago. When she gave her introduction, I knew I wanted to work with her!! Last year, we produced a calendar together–a calendar of women that were over the age of 50 and full of beauty and strength. The calendar’s profits went to Jinnae’s non-profit, Hire Ground. I am so thankful for all the amazing entrepreneurs that I meet through my photography!
DG-What led you into becoming a consultant?
JM-I have been working in my field for more than 25 years. I have always punched a clock, while my girls were at home or in school. Once we became empty nesters, I saw an opportunity and I jumped!
DG-What impact does your business have on the companies and/or people who serve –
JM- It is my hope that our clients receive top-notch career development, leadership guidance and impactful solutions to modern day workplace challenges. We frequently hear comments like: “workplace harmony,” “increased in-house promotions,” and “lower turnover” as common outcomes from our deliverables. We teach, display and inspire our client’s employees to behave professionally and that comes across in our outcomes.
DG- What inspired you to start your non-profit, Hire Ground?
JM-I have had a heart for young people since I was a child. My mother said “other mom’s kids brought home stray animals, but you “lil missy” brought home kids.” I think some children just don’t get a fair shake in life and those of us that can jump in and offer some guidance should. Young people are the heartbeat of the future…they need as much wisdom as possible poured into them.
DG-What kinds of things do you like to do outside of your work?
JM-I love dressing strangers in retail stores, I talk to them about being okay with themselves and dressing with a sense of purpose, but more so dressing in a manner that makes them feel like strutting. I love playing ANY word game and childhood sports, like kickball. And doing anything with family & friends that brings about belly-gut laughter.
DG- What is your favorite place that you have been?
JM-Sicily, Italy. It has high fashion and smart casual style, fabuloso food and exceptional weather and the locals are so comfortable in their own skin. They are beautiful is a very traditional sense.
DG-What is something/someone that inspires you?
JM-Someone would be – Maya Angelou because she read every book in a library and she overcame childhood tragedy/devastation to become the person she was. Something would be – Music feeds me in so many ways. It calms me, rejuvenates me, lifts me up and makes me dance like I really know how!
DG-If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self what would it be?
JM- When I was young, I wanted to be friends with the cool kids, so I didn’t share my passion for learning. I would tell my younger self, “don’t fret about what the other kids think or say, take those extra credit classes, say the answer out loud and it’s okay that you look forward to taking spelling tests!
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