Today we’d like to introduce you to CJ (Chequetta) Jackson.
Hi CJ (Chequetta) , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am a proud Omaha native whose journey has been shaped by resilience and determination. Growing up in a family marked by challenges, I encountered two transformative mentors in my adolescence—a trusted guide and a dedicated track coach—who helped me see the boundless possibilities beyond my circumstances. Their belief in me inspired a core principle I live by: helping others see the beauty of what is possible.
Track and field became my sanctuary and a catalyst for change, paving the way for me to become the first in my family to attend college on a Division I scholarship. That experience not only opened doors but also ignited my commitment to breaking barriers and pursuing excellence, even when the odds were stacked against me. I’ve always believed that God placed within me a purpose far greater than I could imagine, and that belief has guided me through the most difficult challenges.
These experiences inform my passion for leadership development and my work as the founder of the Phenomenal Woman Academy. Through this platform, I empower women and girls to cultivate self-worth, self-esteem, and self-confidence—qualities I had to fight to discover in myself. My life’s mission is to ensure that others have the tools to overcome their challenges and thrive.
Today, as a thought leader, organizational development professional, and doctoral student, I continue to dedicate myself to creating opportunities, fostering resilience, and helping others realize their full potential. I am a testament to the idea that no matter where you start, greatness is always within reach.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has most definitely not been a smooth ride. In my experience, growth and maturity are rarely born from comfort. Adversity, while often unwelcome, is not the enemy—it is the uninvited companion that challenges you to grow in ways you never thought possible.
My journey has been marked by significant challenges. Growing up in an environment where domestic violence, substance abuse, and inappropriate experiences were present was far from easy. I lacked clear examples of success and often had to navigate uncharted territory without a blueprint. Being the first in my family to achieve many milestones—breaking generational curses and creating new opportunities—meant walking a lonely, uphill path. It’s a road that few understand, and many only see the success, not the struggles, sacrifices, or tears that paved the way.
This road less traveled has been profoundly difficult. It would have been easier to give up, conform, or choose the well-worn path others followed. Instead, I stayed grounded in my belief that God had a greater purpose for me, even when I couldn’t fully see it. There were moments when all I could do was put one foot in front of the other, trusting the process despite the pain and uncertainty.
No, this journey has not been easy, but it has been transformative. Every challenge has shaped me into the woman I am today—a resilient leader, a compassionate mentor, and a steadfast advocate for helping others find their own strength in the face of adversity.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
First and foremost, I consider myself a builder!
I am the Director of Organizational Development for a public utility, where I specialize in creating strategies that empower people and organizations to thrive. My work focuses on leadership development, culture transformation, and building sustainable systems to enhance employee engagement and performance. I’m also the founder of the Phenomenal Woman Academy, a platform dedicated to equipping women and girls with the tools to build self-worth, self-esteem, and self-confidence.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to inspire others to see the possibilities within themselves and to create pathways for growth that lead to real, lasting impact. Whether it’s mentoring individuals, leading organizational change, or facilitating leadership workshops, my work centers around developing people, aligning strategies with purpose, and driving meaningful transformation.
What sets me apart is my holistic approach, blending lived experiences, professional expertise, and a deep understanding of what it takes to lead through change. I’m known for my ability to connect with people on a human level while building systems and frameworks that support long-term success.
As a thought leader, a doctoral student, and someone who has overcome significant challenges, I bring authenticity, resilience, and a results-oriented mindset to everything I do. My work isn’t just about achieving goals—it’s about creating a legacy of empowerment, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was a quiet, introspective child. The circumstances of my childhood played a significant role in shaping my reserved nature, as I often felt my voice had been stripped away by the challenges I experienced. I found solace and adventure in books, becoming a voracious reader who loved escaping into worlds I could only dream of. I was a self-proclaimed bookworm and nerd, more interested in the stories on the pages than in socializing with others.
It might surprise people who see me now as a keynote speaker, workshop leader, and conference organizer to know that I wasn’t always outgoing or talkative. In fact, I was deeply observant, fascinated by human behavior, and often spent time watching, learning, and trying to understand why people do what they do.
Despite my quiet nature, I was always a goal-oriented individual. When I set my sights on something, I committed fully, giving it everything I had. My circle of true friends has always been small, as I value quality over quantity in relationships. I’ve always cherished my alone time—time to think, process, and dream.
At my core, I’ve always been a free spirit, someone who resists being confined to societal boxes or expectations. I thrive in environments that allow me the freedom to move, grow, and express myself authentically. I love deeply, live purposefully, and steer clear of unnecessary drama. These traits have not only shaped who I was growing up but continue to define who I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.phenomenalwomanacademy.org
- Instagram: ConfidentCoachCJ
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Mr9yPbxSb/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjjackson2011?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
