We recently connected with Jes Williams and have shared our conversation below.

Jes, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you share a story with us from back when you were an intern or apprentice? Maybe it’s a story that illustrates an important lesson you learned or maybe it’s a just a story that makes you laugh (or cry)?

I served a year as an AmeriCorps member with Habitat for Humanity after college. I wanted to make a difference; I expected to live in community, learn a new trade, lead and inspire volunteers, and build relationships with future homeowners. While those expectations were met in beautiful ways, they were not what expanded me as a leader and human being.

Conflict occurs when expectations are not met. When we lean into the tension and engage the conflict, we grow.

A couple of months into the year, my co-members and I were exhausted and stretched thin. Circumstances had made our housing accommodations no longer available, which left us scrambling to find places to live. On the construction site, there were unaddressed “issues” amongst our supervisors which impacted our training and workload. In addition, I quickly learned that some volunteers are easier to work with than others.

Non-profits are not perfect environments. They are complex blends of people trying to do good.

Negativity soon followed. It was easy to fall into the habit of vocalizing frustrations and keeping to oneself…. I was miserable, lonely, and convinced I had made the wrong choice in coming to work there.

It was then that my mom spoke some truth into me. “I can’t tell you what to do. but you’ll never know what’s on the other side of the storm, if you don’t go through it”. Reluctantly, I listened..and I stayed.

It wasn’t long after, I was first introduced to the well-known quote, “Be the change you wish to see in the world”. I had become so focused on the negative experiences around me, I had forgotten the change I wanted to see in the world; the one where all people feel loved, seen, and cared for.

For the remaining months, my focus shifted, and I changed. I modeled what I believed were important characteristics on site and with co-workers, volunteers, and homeowners. I led with confidence in who I was and why I was there.

Still today, when tensions arise, I try to remember something new is on the other side of the storm. I try to live into my hope for the world. It shapes my work as Executive Director at Bellafina Chocolates, my family, and my choices. For that, I am grateful.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

If anyone is interested in learning more or ordering chocolate: www.bellafina.com. 

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

In all things and at all times, choose Love. Make time to be together without micromanaging. Trust the individuals and the team.
Encourage and express gratitude.
Show up and stay present in the midst of conflict.
Listen and be clear.
Celebrate successes and first tries.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect is how I view the world; appreciating beauty in the unlikeliest of places. As someone with a creative lens on life, I find fluidity and connection in how I navigate choices and interactions. I relish in the opportunities to be inspired by the ordinary and inspire others to see their world differently.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bellafina.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellafinachocolates/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bellafina.Chocolates/
• Other: [email protected]