Entrepreneur Kelly Francis Is Who She Is—And She Isn’t Sorry

Featuring a broad cross-section of women who have distinguished themselves across a rich variety of careers, our Portraits of Power series is a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Black Enterprise, and of black women. It’s a place for today’s businesswomen to share their own favorite images and their own stories, in their own words. Today’s portrait is entrepreneur Kelly Francis, an HR and management expert.

Kelly Francis

Founder, President & Senior Consultant, Performance Solutions Limited

My first job was working in a toy store. I ate candy and soda for breakfast all summer long!

My big break came when I realized I had nothing to lose by taking a chance.

I’ve had to work hardest at celebrating my accomplishments.

I never imagined I would be celebrating 20 years of owning my own business.

I wish I’d learned sooner how to promote my brand and my business.

The risk I regret not taking is being bolder.

If I could design my fantasy self-care day, it would be spent recharging with my closest girlfriends; laughing until I start to sputter; drinking really good wine, and feeling the sun on my face.

Navigating my son safely into adulthood keeps me up at night.

When I’m struggling, I say to myself, “first-world problems.”

I am unapologetically protective of my right to be who I am at this stage of my life.

Portraits of Power is a yearlong series of candid insights from exceptional women leaders. It is brought to you by ADP.