We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jayida Diamondzlove a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jayida, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.

At “The Serenity Step Up Program and Age Out House,” we are committed to doing just that by offering a deeply personal and holistic approach to supporting those in need.

I, Jayida DiamondzLove, have taken the first steps to open this program, which is dedicated to children who are getting ready to leave foster care or are no longer eligible for foster care services, as well as young adults who are battling substance use, rape, molestation, domestic violence, and more. Our approach is 100 times different than anyone else because we provide not just a place to stay but a true sanctuary where healing and growth are prioritized above all else.

Our program is built on a foundation of empathy, understanding, and real-life experience. We offer personalized support tailored to each individual’s unique journey, recognizing that no two stories are the same. By focusing on the emotional, psychological, and practical needs of our residents, we empower them to take meaningful steps toward a brighter future.

One story that illustrates why this difference matters is that of a young woman named Sarah, who aged out of foster care with nowhere to go and no support system. Traditional programs offered her temporary shelter, but it was our commitment to understanding her trauma and providing consistent, compassionate support that made the difference. Today, Sarah is thriving, pursuing her education, and giving back to her community.

At “The Serenity Step Up Program and Age Out House,” we believe that every individual deserves a chance to heal and succeed, free from judgment and with all the support they need. Our dedication to this mission sets us apart, and we are honored to be a part of such transformative journeys.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

As DJ Jayla, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with many of you about the intricate dance of managing a team while maintaining high morale. It’s a topic close to my heart because I believe that fostering a sense of family within our teams is essential for our businesses to thrive.

Managing a team is like conducting a symphony. Each member brings their unique talents, and it’s our job to ensure that these talents blend harmoniously. Here are a few key pieces of advice I’ve gathered on this journey:

1. **Foster Open Communication:** Encourage your team to speak openly about their ideas and concerns. Regular check-ins and an open-door policy can make a world of difference. When team members feel heard, they are more likely to feel valued and engaged.

2. **Celebrate Successes:** Acknowledge and celebrate both individual and team achievements. Whether it’s a small milestone or a significant accomplishment, recognition goes a long way in boosting morale. It shows your team that their hard work is noticed and appreciated.

3. **Provide Opportunities for Growth:** Invest in your team’s development. Offer training, mentorship, and opportunities to take on new challenges. When team members see a path for growth, they are more likely to stay motivated and committed.

4. **Build a Supportive Environment:** Create a workplace culture that emphasizes support and collaboration. Encourage team members to help each other and work together towards common goals. A supportive environment can turn a group of individuals into a cohesive, high-performing team.

5. **Lead with Empathy:** Understand that your team members are human beings with lives outside of work. Be empathetic to their needs and challenges. Showing compassion and flexibility can build trust and loyalty.

In my conversations with other business owners, I often share that being an open, family-like team has been a cornerstone of my approach. It’s about more than just managing tasks; it’s about building relationships. When your team feels like a family, they are more likely to go above and beyond for each other and for the business.

High morale is not a one-time achievement but a continuous effort. It requires dedication, patience, and genuine care for your team’s well-being. But the rewards are immeasurable – a happy, motivated team that is ready to tackle any challenge that comes their way.

Let’s continue to share our experiences and support each other in creating workplaces where our teams can thrive. Together, we can build businesses that are not only successful but also places where people love to work.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I’m Jayida DiamondzLove, also known as DJ Jayla, and today, I want to share a story from my journey that illustrates the power of resilience. It’s a tale of personal challenges, professional growth, and how these experiences have shaped my mission to help others incorporate resilience into their own lives.

In my personal life, resilience has been a guiding force. I remember a time when the weight of the world seemed almost unbearable. After undergoing RnY Gastric Bypass Surgery and dealing with a hiatal hernia repair, the road to recovery was steep and fraught with obstacles. There were days when the physical pain was overwhelming and moments when the emotional toll felt insurmountable. But I knew I had to keep pushing forward, not just for myself but for my family and everyone who looked up to me.

Professionally, the journey to opening The Serenity Step Up Program and Age Out House was no less challenging. There were countless hurdles – from securing funding to building a team and creating a comprehensive program that truly addresses the needs of young adults leaving foster care. There were times when setbacks made the goal seem distant, but I reminded myself that resilience is about persisting despite adversity. Each obstacle became a lesson, each setback an opportunity to grow stronger and more determined.

One particular moment stands out vividly. It was during a critical phase of setting up the program. I was juggling multiple responsibilities, and the stress was immense. During this period, I encountered a young woman who had just aged out of foster care. Her story of struggle and perseverance deeply resonated with me. She reminded me of the importance of what we were building and reignited my passion to see it through.

Her story became a beacon, not just for me but for our entire team. It underscored the necessity of resilience – not only in our own lives but in the lives of those we aim to help. I realized that my experiences, both personal and professional, were not just about overcoming challenges but about using those experiences to inspire and uplift others.

Today, I speak to others about resilience because I have lived it. I’ve faced personal health challenges, navigated professional setbacks, and emerged stronger each time. I share these stories to remind everyone that resilience is within us all. It’s about facing difficulties head-on, learning from them, and using those lessons to fuel our growth.

At The Serenity Step Up Program and Age Out House, we emphasize the importance of resilience in every aspect of our work. We teach young adults that while life will undoubtedly present challenges, their strength and perseverance can carry them through. By providing support, guidance, and a safe space, we help them build the resilience needed to navigate their futures confidently.

To anyone facing tough times, know this: resilience is a journey, not a destination. It’s about embracing your strength, learning from every experience, and never giving up. Together, we can create a community where resilience is nurtured and celebrated, and where every challenge is seen as an opportunity for growth.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayida_diamondz24?igsh=MTJqbDZ4dDg0Zmc1YQ==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553856914022&mibextid=ZbWKwL
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JayidaLife
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayida_diamondz24?_t=8obivRmRQJL&_r=1

Image Credits

Alexa Jones of Sunflower Photography