Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Janniere.
Jessica, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
As a child abuse, rape and suicide attempt survivor, I am on a mission to help people realize that negative past experiences do not equal a negative future regardless of the level of trauma they’ve faced. Recognized as an expert in helping people (especially women and youth) overcome adversity, nothing brings nothing brings me greater fulfillment than seeing people live with passion and purpose.
I am currently serving as the Director of Mentoring Services and oversee the training and hiring of professional women who volunteer their time to mentor teen girls. Another aspect of my work is coaching professionals who are mission-driven leaders in various capacities that find themselves operating in a functional, but unfulfilled space. It is extremely rewarding because I know their commitment to their personal growth is a priority and one that does not end with them; it trickles into the incredible work they are doing to positively impact the world.
I am also passionate about raising awareness about and improving the prevention of suicide from individuals struggling with depression and emotional pain. One of my passion projects is helping people from all walks of life during their darkest moments- when they are struggling with suicidal thoughts. It has been an honor to serve within my sphere of influence and in my community, providing hope initially, but then resources/tools that inspire healing, build vision, and develop leadership.
Through my “Look Up and Beyond: Youth Initiative,” I organize outings to take inner-city youth beyond the walls of their neighborhoods, many for the first time, to experience firsthand the amazing opportunities that exist in life such as education, arts and culture. Working with youth has led me to high schools and college campuses across the country where I facilitate Student Leadership and Success workshops with a core message of overcoming adversity in leadership roles. My inspiration behind the work I do with youth is in honor of my sister Vicky, who was murdered at the age of 15 and my three incredible children Kayla (19), Kyle Jr. (17) and Jared (15) who challenge me to be my best.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been easy!
The greatest struggle we face on our journey is the battle of our mind. As we face challenges, obstacles and setbacks, we must develop mental toughness so we do not collapse in the face of adversity. Adversity can be a great advantage as it gives us an opportunity to GROW through life, not just go through it.
Along the way, who we BECOME is so much more important than where we’re going. I personally had to overcome low self-esteem, fear or rejection, social anxiety, depression and more. I needed to learn how to love myself and believe that I am worthy of good things. I want to give special recognition to my husband, Kyle Janniere. I call him my angel because he loved me when I didn’t believe I deserved love. It is important for each of us to have love, support and encouragement on the journey to “becoming” and reaching our goals.
Please tell us about Look Up and Beyond Inc.
Look Up and Beyond Inc. is an award-winning personal development company. We are committed to helping people overcome the pain of their past and current circumstances to live purpose-driven and fulfilling lives. By providing the specific tools needed to “look up and beyond” the adversity/ trauma they’ve faced, along with hope from my personal and unique story, I’ve been able to inspire and help transform countless lives via books/ resources, workshops/trainings, conferences, keynote presentations and one-on-one coaching. This is an incredible honor!
When an individual decides to embark on a personal growth journey, they begin to unlock their potential. When someone’s potential is unlocked, they are empowered to maximize their leadership in every aspect of their life, increase their influence and truly make a transformational lasting impact in the lives of others.
The phrase “look up and beyond” was birthed from my personal pain and led me to my purpose. At the root of this work, was the challenge to envision a life that is no longer lived in darkness, shame, unfulfillment and without purpose. My ability to “look up” and cultivate a vision, empowered me to move forward, seek healing and ultimately experience success in all areas of my life. Now I get to teach others the same strategies I’ve learned and applied, so they too can live a life of success and BEYOND… no matter what!
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite childhood memory is when I lived in Germany on a farm with my grandparents. I lived with them the first six years of my life and was taught how to milk cows, feed the horses sugar cubes, slaughter pigs for meat and keep the garden for fresh fruits and vegetables. It was a very carefree and happy time. After that, I was catapulted into a very unexpected and challenging life, which you can experience by reading “My Colored World: A Memoir.”
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.jessicajanniere.com/index.html
- Email: info@lookupandbeyond.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicajanniere/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jesicajanniere1
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