Meet Jamea Hill | CEO & Author

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

Hi Jamea, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
The streets of South-Central LA and Compton taught me grit, determination, and instilled in me a strong sense of pride and purpose. One of the biggest influences in my life was my Granny, Earnestine Green. She wasn’t just my grandmother—she was my first example of what it meant to be a powerful Black woman, a business owner, and a provider. She owned an eight-unit apartment building that mostly housed family members and ran Art’s Furniture Store in South Central LA. Watching her manage the apartment building and take care of business daily with grace, wisdom, and strength left an imprint on me. Spending my days with her—eating at McDonald’s, flipping through those big catalog books, quick trips to the mall and witnessing how she carried herself as a businesswoman—shaped the way I view ownership and entrepreneurship today.

That same entrepreneurial spirit runs through my veins. It’s why I founded Green Family Jewels in 2008—starting as a hobby and turning it into a full business. My background and upbringing have taught me that business isn’t just about making money—it’s about building a legacy, creating opportunities, and uplifting my community. That’s exactly why I also made sure to pass down this legacy to my daughter, gifting her a business at just 10 years old. Like my granny did for me, I want to show her that Black women can create, own, and thrive.

Everything I do today—whether it’s running Green Family Jewels LLC, my nonprofit Crowned Queen, or helping my daughter grow as a young businesswoman—is a direct reflection of where I come from. South Central and Compton didn’t just raise me; they prepared me to be a leader, a creator, and a woman who stands on business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
At Green Family Jewels LLC, our art is more than just rhinestone apparel—it’s a celebration of culture, empowerment, and legacy. Every design we create is intentional, blending inspiration, motivation, and identity into wearable art. What sets us apart is not just the beauty of our rhinestone designs but the story behind them—a story of four generations of Black women entrepreneurs, resilience, and a commitment to building something greater than ourselves.

One of the most exciting and impactful aspects of Green Family Jewels is our Creative Arts Therapy program. This initiative was born from my personal journey with rhinestones—how they became a source of peace, self-expression, and healing for me. Through interactive wellness workshops, I help others experience the therapeutic power of creating rhinestone designs, allowing their minds to be free while engaging in a calming, artistic process. It’s more than just art—it’s about mental wellness, stress relief, and self-discovery. Watching people of all ages tap into their creativity and leave with not just a design, but a sense of accomplishment, is something I’m incredibly proud of.

What makes it even more special is that it’s now a partnership with my daughter, whom I gifted her own business at just 10 years old. Watching her embrace entrepreneurship at such a young age has been one of my greatest joys. Green Family Jewels is about passing down knowledge, wealth, and the belief that Black women can create, own, and thrive.

But getting here wasn’t easy. Like any business, there were challenges—learning the ropes of entrepreneurship, balancing motherhood, and navigating the ups and downs of growing a brand. One of the biggest hurdles was finding my niche and standing firm in my worth. There were times when people didn’t see the value in what I was creating, but I had to remind myself that I set the standard for my brand. I overcame these challenges by staying true to my vision, my purpose, and my passion. I also leaned on my faith, my family, and the lessons my granny taught me about perseverance and ownership.

Through this journey, I’ve learned that consistency, authenticity, and community are everything. Success doesn’t come overnight, and you have to be willing to put in the work, evolve, and never compromise your worth. I want the world to know that Green Family Jewels is more than just a business—it’s a movement. It’s about breaking generational cycles, inspiring the next wave of Black women entrepreneurs, and creating something that will outlive us.

When you wear Green Family Jewels, you’re not just wearing rhinestones—you’re wearing a piece of history, a spark of empowerment, and a reflection of the bold, unstoppable force that is Black excellence.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d make sure they got the full LA & Compton experience—from cultural gems to food adventures and nightlife vibes!

We’d kick things off in Leimert Park, the heartbeat of Black LA. It’s the perfect place to experience art, music, and culture, with live drumming, poetry, and vendors selling everything from books to handmade jewelry. We’d stop by Eso Won Books, grab some beignets from Harold & Belle’s pop-up, and take in the energy of the community. If there’s a festival or event happening, even better!

Since I’m all about food and culture, we’d dedicate an entire day to taco tasting. We’d hit up the best local taco stands and trucks in Compton, Downtown, and South LA. It’s all about finding the best birria, chorizo, and pastor tacos while enjoying the street food scene. Nothing beats standing by a taco truck, plate in hand, soaking in the flavors and vibes.

For a change of pace, we’d head to AYCE 92 for Korean BBQ, where we’d grill our own meats and enjoy the interactive dining experience. After dinner, we’d find a karaoke spot or live band venue, depending on the night. Some of the local lounges have amazing R&B and jazz nights, which would be the perfect way to wind down and enjoy some good music.

No trip to LA is complete without Soul Food, so we’d make a stop at Fixins, Dulan’s Soul Food, Matthews Home Style Cooking, or Soul Food Rennaissance depending on the mood. After that, we’d dress up and hit The District by GS for drinks, music, and an all-around good time. The energy there is always on point, and it’s one of my go-to spots for a night out.

Since I’m always tapped into entrepreneurship and wellness, I’d take my friend to a business networking event or a Compton Wellness Collective gathering. It’s a great way to connect, support Black businesses, and experience community love. Depending on the timing, there might also be a panel or pop-up shop to explore.

For a little luxury moment, we’d make a reservation at Steak 48. Every trip deserves at least one fancy night out, and Steak 48 is the perfect place for surf & turf, fine dining, and dressing up just for the fun of it. It’s all about balance—one night we’re eating tacos from a stand, and the next we’re sipping wine in an upscale steakhouse.

To end the trip, we’d grab some fried fish, shrimp, and oysters from Imperial Fish Market—one of the best spots for local seafood. We’d sit, eat, and reflect on the week, soaking in all the good vibes before they head back home.

No matter what, I’d make sure my friend experiences the food, culture, and community that make LA & Compton so special to me.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Bernadette Green of Nana’s Classy Boutique
Christi McDaniel of Power Legacy and Children Striving Together

Website: https://greenfamilyjewels.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenfamilyjewels/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jamea-hill-8633a331/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greenfamilyjewelsllc

Image Credits
Green Family Jewels has rights to all photos