Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jamila Conley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Jamila, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
I started my leadership career early and often found myself to not only be the only woman or person of color in the room but often the youngest. I quickly learned the importance of utilizing facts and data to present my points so that my contributions stood on merit and value versus if people liked me or if I fit in. This not only boosted my professional and personal value but helped me identify the overlooked value in others.
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?
After a long corporate career in Tech, I decided to pivot my energy and talents to becoming an entrepreneur. I am currently the founder and CEO of WeRise Wines LLC a wine business focused on transforming the wine industry by spotlighting underrepresented winemakers and wineries. Our mission extends beyond just reselling wine, we engage in storytelling of the wines, thoughtful partnerships with wineries, and meticulous curation for our customers to elevate and amplify voices that often go unheard in the wine community.
We engage our customers and corporate community through our wine bar, wine club, and providing a space for private events.
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?
When I reflect of the things that helped propel my career, it boils down to three things: approach everything with a learning mindset as you never know where that learning opportunity may lead. Second, think horizontally; don’t focus on the ladder as that quickly can limit both your growth and experience. I’ve grown more as a leader taking more expansive roles and risks with the same title as those opportunities allowed me to grow my skillset and leadership abilities exponentially more than any title promotion. Lastly, stand your ground with facts and data. Don’t fall into the trap of following the popular answer but do the work to know the facts. It will build your brand as a reliable source and helps make driving to the right decision amidst conflicts.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My parents taught me the value of lifelong education, payoffs that come from working hard, and most importantly they taught me how to ensure financial stability at any stage of my life. These 3 things have molded who am I and who I continue to evolve into being.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.werisewines.com
- Instagram: @werisewines
- Facebook: @werisewines
- Linkedin: Werisewines
- Yelp: @werisewines
Image Credits
Please credit Carlton Canary and also Clicks & Canvases
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
