Meet Jasmine LeFlore

 

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jasmine LeFlore. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Jasmine, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?

My resilience comes from a combination of personal experience, a strong sense of purpose, and a commitment to creating change. Growing up in Flint, MI, I faced systemic inequities and the loss of my mother and grandparents during pivotal moments in my life. These experiences taught me that resilience isn’t just about enduring hardship—it’s about embracing the unseen and unacknowledged work that shapes us. I recently did a TEDx talk on the concept of the ‘Un-resume’—the invisible struggles, the setbacks, and the quiet perseverance that don’t show up on traditional resumes but are crucial to who we are and how we succeed.

For me, resilience is built through every challenge I’ve faced, whether it was navigating the demanding world of aerospace engineering as a Black woman or founding Greater Than Tech, where I provide mentorship and opportunities for young girls, particularly from underserved communities. The Un-resume concept reflects how we build resilience by learning from adversity, overcoming doubts, and turning our struggles into strength. It’s about using those experiences—both positive and negative—to fuel my mission and inspire others to keep going, no matter the obstacles. Resilience, in my view, is about evolving through our experiences and empowering others to do the same, while staying true to the bigger picture I’m working toward.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I am the founder of Greater Than Tech, a nonprofit organization dedicated to
helping create the next generation of innovative technology leaders by introducing girls and underserved students to immersive educational programs at the intersection of STEM and business. We specifically focus on emerging technologies in our programming so student Through mentorship, hands-on experiences, and opportunities to network with professionals, we help these girls realize their potential and pursue careers in fields traditionally underrepresented by their demographics. My passion for this work comes from my own journey—growing up in Flint, MI, as a Black woman in aerospace engineering, I faced systemic barriers and significant personal hardships. These experiences shaped my drive to create opportunities for others to overcome similar challenges.

What excites me the most about my work is the opportunity to make a real, tangible impact in the lives of young girls, especially those who often don’t have access to the kind of education or career opportunities that can change their futures. Growing up in Flint, MI, as a Black woman in aerospace engineering, I’ve faced systemic barriers and personal struggles, which have fueled my passion for creating a space where these girls can feel empowered to pursue careers in STEM without being limited by their circumstances.

At Greater Than Tech, we focus on the ‘Un-resume’—recognizing that the unseen, unacknowledged work in our lives, such as resilience and perseverance, is just as important as academic achievements. This holistic approach to building confidence, leadership, and technical skills is what sets our programs apart. We also emphasize emerging technologies like robotics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space exploration, ensuring that students are exposed to the innovations shaping the future. By helping students overcome challenges and teaching them to harness their unique strengths, we prepare them for careers in fields that have traditionally excluded them.

Right now, I’m excited about an upcoming initiative—a study-abroad trip to Japan for our alumnae club participants. This STEM-focused tour will explore robotics, engineering, and space technology, offering the students a hands-on, project-based learning experience that takes them beyond the classroom. This trip reflects our commitment to providing students with real-world exposure to cutting-edge technologies and inspiring them to see themselves as creators of the future.

Looking ahead, I’m also focused on expanding Greater Than Tech’s reach. We’re working on moving our programs online to serve thousands of students annually, creating a strong network of innovators and entrepreneurs who are equipped with the tools to succeed. I envision GTT not just as a nonprofit, but as a full-fledged venture studio—a place where young people can start businesses, launch tech products, and redefine what’s possible.

What’s most special about my brand is our approach to reimagining education. At Greater Than Tech, we’re challenging the traditional educational system by offering students the chance to build businesses, conduct research, and develop technologies from day one. We’re about creating an ecosystem where young innovators can thrive, free from the constraints of outdated systems, and where they can shape the world in ways that matters to them.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Resilience: Start small by taking on challenges just beyond your comfort zone. Reflect on setbacks as learning experiences.
Vision: Engage in creative exercises like journaling or brainstorming to clarify your goals. Stay informed about trends and opportunities.Take constant inventory of your feelings of what feels good and doesn’t feel good to you.
Empathy: Volunteer or mentor others to develop a deeper understanding of their perspectives. This will also build your communication and leadership skills.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Yes, I’m always looking for people to collaborate with, especially those who share a passion for empowering underserved communities, particularly young girls in STEM, and driving innovation in education. Specifically, I’m interested in partnering with individuals or organizations that have expertise in emerging technologies like robotics, artificial intelligence, and space exploration—fields that we’re passionate about at Greater Than Tech. We’re also eager to collaborate with early-stage tech founders who want to get some research questions answered with a flexible, low-risk approach to real-world testing, especially if they’re interested in working with young, diverse talent to solve important problems in tech.

Collaboration is key to amplifying impact, and I’m open to working with educators, tech professionals, corporations, nonprofits, and early-stage founders who are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in tech and entrepreneurship. If you’re someone who has an innovative tech product or project, and you’re looking for research-driven insights or access to a diverse group of students to help refine your product, I’d love to explore how we can work together.

The best way to connect with me is through my email or LinkedIn. Feel free to reach out with your ideas, and let’s explore how we can partner to bring innovative programs, experiences, and opportunities to the next generation of leaders.

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