What We’re Up To
We grabbed coffee with our VP Jamitress Bowden to talk about how organizations can authentically engage with Black History Month. Plus: she shares the biggest highlights of her time working at BR (so far) and love for the legend/icon/Rhythm Nation queen Janet Jackson.
How do you like your coffee?
Black—no cream, no sugar, just pure caffeine.
What do you think about when you hear “Black History Month?”
I think about the stories about Black people that were shared widely, and those that sadly were not. The stories that shed light on how Black people fought against the strategically created barriers to provide a better life for themselves and their families.
How can organizations authentically engage with Black History Month?
I think organizations can authentically uplift their Black history in progress, publicly acknowledge any past shortcomings and prioritize the values shared during Black History Month the entire year.
Why did you join BerlinRosen?
I joined BR because I was looking for a firm that valued work-life balance and provided opportunities for growth.
What are your biggest highlights at BR (so far)?
The biggest highlight of my time so far has been learning from and working with my wonderful team members. We consistently help our clients achieve their goals and the dedicated team members who work with me to make it happen are simply wonderful.
Tell me a life-changing moment that helped shape who you are today.
When my parents drove me to college they explained how important it is to stay true to yourself and dedicated to your goals. They reminded me that, as a first-generation college student, I was going to college because of those two things.
⚡️ Fast Facts
Last TV show I binge-watched: Harlem. A great show about a group of female friends.
Restaurant I’d recommend to close friends: I’m not much of a foodie, but I love the bottomless brunch at Ophelia’s in DC.
Best concert I’ve ever experienced: Janet Jackson: State of the World Tour in 2017. I love Janet Jackson and her music. I went to this show with two good friends.
Record that I could listen to over and over again: A single record: Stevie Wonder’s “Rocket Love.” An album: Mary J. Blige’s “What’s the 411?”
Book that changed me: My first French textbook from middle school. Learning and speaking French has transformed my life and taught me so much more than another language.
Movie I’d pay to see again and again: None, because I’m too cheap. But I do love watching “This Christmas” after Thanksgiving dinner every year.
Advice I’d tell my young self: Try not to worry so much, it all works out.