Meet Crystal Jones

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Crystal Jones a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Crystal, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?

That’s a powerful question. Being the only person of color in all of my professional spaces has certainly presented me with some very unique experiences. However, I’ve learned to navigate these environments effectively by:

– Cultivating Confidence and Resilience: Growing up in a supportive family and community instilled in me a strong sense of self-worth. This confidence has been invaluable in overcoming adversity and maintaining a positive outlook, even when facing discrimination or exclusion.
– Leveraging My Unique Perspective: My diverse background and experiences have provided me with a unique lens through which to view challenges and opportunities. I’ve learned to use my perspective as a strength, offering fresh insights and innovative solutions.
– Building a Strong Network: Throughout my career, I’ve intentionally built a diverse network of mentors, colleagues, and allies. These relationships have provided support, guidance, and opportunities, helping me to overcome obstacles and achieve my goals.
– Advocating for Change: Recognizing the systemic barriers faced by underrepresented groups, I’ve become a vocal advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. By speaking out and taking action, I hope to create a more equitable workplace for future generations.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I’m a passionate advocate for education and social impact. Since 2020, I’ve been privileged to serve as Board President of Ignite Arts & STEM, a non-profit dedicated to empowering BIPOC students in underserved communities.

Our Mission:
At Ignite Arts & STEM, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to pursue their passions in arts and STEM. We offer scholarships, mentorship, workshops, and community engagement programs to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.

Why Ignite Arts & STEM Matters:
Our work goes beyond academics. We foster creativity, innovation, and leadership. We build partnerships to expand our reach and resources. And most importantly, we’ve proven our ability to make a tangible difference in students’ lives.

Upcoming Events and Initiatives:
– Mentors & Mimosas Gala: Join us on May 3rd for our 5th annual gala, featuring a student art exhibition, inspiring speakers, and opportunities to support our mission.
– Mentorship Program: Our new program provides hands-on workshops, mentorship opportunities, and support for students.
– Scholarship Program: Apply now for our 4th scholarship cohort, providing financial assistance to BIPOC students pursuing arts and STEM fields.

My Commitment:
My dedication to social justice fuels my work at Ignite Arts & STEM. I believe in the transformative power of education and the importance of creating equitable opportunities for all. I am committed to empowering the next generation of BIPOC leaders in arts and STEM.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Reflecting on my journey, I believe three key qualities have been instrumental:

– Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges has been crucial. It’s not about avoiding adversity, but about persevering through it. Remember, “no” is often not the end; it’s merely a detour. Keep looking for opportunities and maintain a positive outlook.
– Continuous Learning: A growth mindset is essential. Stay curious, seek new experiences, and never stop learning. Embrace the unknown and view challenges as opportunities for growth.
– Networking: Building strong relationships has opened doors for me. Don’t be afraid to connect with others, even if you’re introverted. Attend events, join online communities, and actively seek mentorship.

For those starting out, I’d advise:
– Embrace change: Be adaptable and open to new directions.
– Cultivate a growth mindset: Focus on learning and improvement over perfection.
– Build your network: Seek out mentors, attend industry events, and leverage online platforms.

Remember, your journey is unique. Stay true to yourself, be persistent, and believe in your potential.

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

“Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” by Judy Blume was a formative book for me during my adolescence, leaving a lasting impact that continues to resonate today. Its exploration of puberty, friendship, and self-discovery offered invaluable insights that have shaped my perspective on life.

One of the most impactful lessons was the importance of embracing change. Margaret’s experiences navigating physical and emotional transformations taught me to be open to life’s transitions and to trust that things will work out in the end. It’s a valuable lesson that has helped me navigate various challenges and uncertainties throughout my life.

Another key takeaway was the value of genuine friendship. Margaret’s relationships with her friends provided support, laughter, and a sense of belonging. It reinforced the importance of cultivating deep connections and the positive impact they can have on our well-being.

Finally, the book encouraged me to question and explore my own beliefs. Margaret’s journey of faith provided a model for seeking answers and finding personal meaning. It taught me that it’s okay to have doubts and that spiritual growth is a lifelong process. This has empowered me to be open-minded and to continue seeking deeper understanding of myself and the world around me.

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Crystal Jones

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