Meet Jahzmin French

We were lucky to catch up with Jahzmin French recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jahzmin , so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?

My optimism stems from some of my early childhood experiences and honestly watching the resilience and adaptability of my mother who was a single parent. I recall standing in the lines for food stamps or food bank and she would somehow make it fun for my brother and I even though this was not an ideal situation by playing a game she would make up while we waited. It felt like we were the only people in the line and the time went by quickly in my world when in reality it was probably hours if my mom could chime in. See what she didn’t know was that she was helping me find the joy in a state of inadequacy. She was showing me that even though we were in a tough situation we didn’t have to give in the depressions of that reality because they don’t last. As an adult once I took advantage of the ability to unlock my optimism in the toughest times it was a game changer and as a leader in my industry it’s a hardwired essential that my team and guests deserve.

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 have been in the restaurant industry for over 20 years and have had a front row seat at its recent evolution and love watching people from all walks of life both operate in and enjoy great dining experiences. I’m currently a franchisee for the #1 Japanese ramen concept JINYA Ramen Bar and had the opportunity, with my business partner, to bring the first of its locations to the state of North Carolina. With two locations opened and operating life has been very interesting, challenging, rewarding and revealing. I take great pride in serving our guests from our scratch kitchen and operating within the brand’s mission statement to educate guests on the Japanese cuisine we specialize in. It’s truly a pleasure! Something really exciting about what I do is that I get to be a part of a brand that does not compromise quality and believes in fresh ingredients that even attracts the pallet of our youngest fans and picky eaters across the country. Most people have had the chance to eat ramen even if it was just the cheap pack from the market, but to be open to try authentic ramen and allow us to provide an atmosphere of hospitality puts things on a new level and we create new fans daily with the goal to keep them coming back. In the background we are working with schools in Mecklenburg County to bridge the gap in funding for technology, supplies, essential programs and activities. Our goal is to continue growing the relationships off site within our communities and serving those in need and sharing industry exposure for future leaders.

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?

Learning Agility- Always position yourself to learn more. Don’t cut people off when they are telling you something you think you know as you can severe a new piece of valuable information enveloped in some basics. Do not wait on others to educate you. Take charge with the amazing technology we have available to begin to acquire the Knowlege you need and elevate.

Courage- It’s okay to be afraid, but only temporary. Shake of fear and fear’s “broke best friend” doubt kicking those feelings to the curb and go for it! Have the courage to stand up for your vision and be careful to let people steer you away from it as they may not fully understand your dream or drive and that’s okay. Be courageous in tough times when you may want to throw in the towel or pivot sooner than planned.

Gratitude- Be grateful for the people in your life that you hold dear. Express gratitude to your team, family and self. Be grateful for the lessons you have learned and the future assignments.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I take a moment to slow my thoughts and prioritize my next steps and execute them in that order. Depending on the situation, I step away for fresh air or go into a walk-in cooler to distract the stressful feeling. I may even say a quick prayer to calm myself and ask for God’s help with my emotions.

A good piece of advice when you are overwhelmed is to be careful to speak to the people around you with compassion and even clearly and calmly communicate the space you need with ALSO confirming that you will return to them once you are collected.

Image Credits

These photos were taken by myself