The Economic Vulnerability of Blacks Keeps Entrepreneur Christal M. Jackson Up at Night

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 Christal M. Jackson, who runs an agency focused on building wealth in communities of color.

Christal M. Jackson

Founder & CEO, Mosiac Genius

My first job was working at Astroworld in Houston, Texas.

My big break came when I least expected it but after I was prepared for it.

I’ve had to work hardest at not getting in my own way.

I never imagined I would have the career that I have as an entrepreneur.

I wish I’d learned the value of time sooner.

The risk I regret not taking is studying abroad during my undergraduate years at Spelman.

If I could design my fantasy self-care day, it would be spent at the spa, a museum, and a meal at a restaurant on the beach.

The economic vulnerability of black people and the challenges ahead for the next generation keep me up at night.

When I’m struggling, I say to myself, if God has fixed things before, God will fix them again.

I am unapologetically a Southern belle at heart.

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