Meet Melissa L. Jones

We recently connected with Melissa L. Jones and have shared our conversation below.

Melissa L., we’ve been so fortunate to work with so many incredible folks and one common thread we have seen is that those who have built amazing lives for themselves are also often the folks who are most generous. Where do you think your generosity comes from?

My generosity is deeply rooted in my family. On both sides, I have witnessed my relatives navigate life with an unwavering sense of compassion and selflessness. What stands out most to me is how they continued to give, even during times of scarcity. Whether it was caring for sick friends, visiting loved ones in the hospital, or offering clothes to those without shelter, their generosity never wavered.

I was born into a lineage that values giving as a fundamental part of life. Even when I’ve questioned whether that kindness was reciprocated, I remind myself of a powerful truth: my family will always be abundant in love, resources, and community because they give without expectation. Their actions have taught me that true generosity isn’t about what you have, but what you’re willing to share—even when you have little. This has shaped my own sense of responsibility to give, knowing that it’s a legacy I carry forward.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m Melissa, a Community Activator, Senior Project Manager, and Climate Justice Advocate based in Washington, DC. Although I live in DC, my heart and roots are deeply grounded in Mississippi.

I’m the creator of Food Talks N Color, a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black and Brown individuals in agriculture. Known as THE Edible Activist, I share their lived experiences through a podcast and digital storytelling collections. This platform is central to my mission of elevating underrepresented voices in food and environmental justice.

My career journey began with entrepreneurship. I launched and successfully ran my own event consultancy for ten years, working with clients in the healthcare and sustainability space. This experience laid the foundation for my roles in project management and nonprofit work.

At the core of my work is a deep commitment to humanity and the environment. My platform and passion for climate justice reflect my dedication to making a positive impact and fostering a more equitable and sustainable world.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Strategic planning is crucial in both personal and professional contexts. Having a well-defined strategy and clear goals helps maintain focus and direction, ensuring that you don’t lose sight of your objectives. It’s about setting a roadmap and being purposeful in your actions, which is essential for achieving long-term success.

Commitment is equally vital. Building anything, whether a personal project or a business, comes with its challenges. There will be moments when you face setbacks or feel depleted. In these times, perseverance and staying the course become more important than mere technical skills. Commitment means pushing through difficulties and remaining dedicated to your vision, even when the path is tough.

Open-mindedness complements these qualities by allowing for flexibility and adaptability. Being receptive to new ideas and willing to adjust your strategy or approach can lead to better outcomes. Embracing change and considering alternative perspectives can enhance your ability to navigate obstacles and seize opportunities.

Together, these qualities help create a solid foundation for success and resilience in any endeavor.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I’ve found several strategies to help manage stress and regain balance:

Step Away and Recharge: Sometimes, taking a break from the work at hand is crucial. Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation—whether it’s a hobby, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying a good book—can provide a much-needed mental reset.

Focus on Effort, Not Just Outcomes: I remind myself that as long as I’m putting my best effort into my work, things will unfold as they’re meant to. Detaching from the exact outcome helps reduce pressure and allows for a more flexible, less stressful approach. This doesn’t mean abandoning goals, but rather accepting that not everything is within our control.

Practice Mindfulness and Exercise: Breathing exercises, regular physical activity, and nature walks are effective for calming my nervous system. These practices help clear my mind and improve my overall well-being.

Early Start and Meditation: Taking command of the day by waking up early and incorporating meditation into my morning routine sets a positive tone for the day and enhances focus and calm.

Finding what specifically works for you and integrating these practices into your routine can make a significant difference in managing overwhelm and maintaining a sense of balance.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.foodtalksncolor.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodtalksncolor/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/