We had the good fortune of connecting with Jamie Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jamie, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
The most important lesson I have learned is never to be afraid to jump. I was scared to leap into the unknown for far too long. I must be honest: there are still moments when I spend too much time on the edge, wondering what will come. As I continue to put the fear beneath me, I can now embrace the unknown. I see it as a place for creativity and opportunities to learn new things about myself and life.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Arriving where we are today has not been easy. We have overcome many hurdles and account for them as lessons. We have had to take time to really understand who we are and what our niche is in the world. The process was challenging and meant we had to admit where we were getting caught up in trends and the lanes in which we couldn’t function confidently. They were tough pills to swallow, but they were necessary, and we can now share our story with those around us.

All of our work is person-centered first, and then we look at how that impacts the people and systems around them. Build You Up Sisters’ work is about helping women and mothers authentically be who they are and giving them the space to change while positively impacting their families and communities. We do that through partnerships and collaborations. We believe in connecting with like-minded organizations to provide wholistic support.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We would definitely have brunch at Sultry F & B, visit Mt. Washington, and ride the incline.

Pittsburgh has some amazing museums and Cultural Districts; we would take in a few exhibits and shows.

I’m a french fry girl, so we would go and have what I call “Fries on Friday” at Over the Bar on Friday.

On Thursday evening, I would make sure we spend some time with my Miracle Mama sisters on Clubhouse.

Sprinkled throughout would be family time, any opportunities for her to select something to do and surprise me!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Aaah! There are so many I want to shout out. When I say many, I mean it, lol. Here it goes:

My sisters: Tiffany, Cathy, Monica, and Ashley. My sister-friends: Jasimine, Tiffany & Ebony. My parents and family. My love, Joshua, and our boys, Caleb & Jude. This crew challenged me while I ran away from my purpose, supported me when I faced myself, and decided to change and encourage me daily.

I’d also like to give a shout-out to my colleague turned friend, Syreeta. Syreeta has been one who has been eager to learn things and open to how I could help her, and now she has inspired me. She has given me an opportunity to join her in advocating for Black maternal health issues.

Website: sisters.buildyouup.org

Instagram: @byusisters_

Other: https://youtu.be/H6QtpG5eDjw

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