Meet Jessica Tee | Educator and Philanthropist

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

Hi Jessica, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
The line is so thin, but if you’re in alignment, it becomes clear. Of course there are obstacles when it comes to starting and running your own business. But, if you can NEVER catch a break and/or always seem to miss opportunity, you may not be in purpose and I don’t want to say you should give up, but you should definitely take time to think and likely course correct.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have a very unconventional route to the classroom. I never wanted to be a teacher and was on track to be in medicine My junior year of college, I volunteered at a women’s shelter and got the idea for my organization, The Pretty Powerful Foundation, and for the first time felt passionate about learning (I was always academically gifted and was just on autopilot up until that point). The organization evolved to mentoring high school girls and my mom suggested that I try substitute teaching since I was already working with the youth. So I did and fell in love with the career and got certified. Years later I got a master’s degree in education and did it all while running my nonprofit.

It wasn’t easy and it never is when you take the road less traveled. My certification and master’s degree were both done on my own online. As far as my nonprofit, I didn’t know anyone personally who had built one from the ground up, so I researched and learned everything. I was so excited about it though, that I fell in love with the process. I loved learning everything I could about business and mentorship. I think that’s a valuable lesson and a sign you’re in purpose. I know it’s cliche, but when you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like work (for the most part)

I want the world to know it’s better for everyone when women know their worth and operate from a space of wholeness, When given the environment to thrive properly, amazing things happen within ourselves and communities. We provide those spaces and opportunities at Pretty Powerful.

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?
I live in Columbia, SC also known as the Midlands because it’s in the middle of so many places. Depending on what my friend was up for, we could literally see 3 different terrains in one week. We would for sure spend one day at either Folly or Isle of Palms Beach which are both located in Charleston about 2 hours away and explore the city afterwards. We would also take an easy day trip to Charlotte to eat good and attend a concert or game. That weekend we can spend in Columbia, doing a fun activity downtown like ax throwing, an escape room, paints and sip, or bowling and we must eat at Pearlz – their seafood is top tier. If it’s a game day weekend, we will spend Saturday tailgating and/or at a watch party for my alma mater, The University of South Carolina and Sunday we will would brunch at Room Service where the food is good and the vibes are even better.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mom and grandma. I’ve changed my life trajectory a few times and they’ve never doubted or pressured me. They gave me the freedom to choose my life course and for that I’m forever grateful.

Website: shesprettypowerful.com

Instagram: @jessfinesse

Image Credits
Rahshawn Merrick and Tory Robins