What is “A Moment With”? The Women’s Business Development Center is pleased to continue with our series, “A Moment With”, where we periodically highlight some of our greatest supporters and partners, sharing their career experiences and advice. This month, we will be highlighting Jerome’ Holston, Director of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois.
Meet Jerome’: A public servant, Jerome’ Holston is committed to advancing the work of mission driven organizations and organizations that impact the arts, education, housing, LGBT rights, human/social services, environment, minorities, women, and youth. Jerome’ is Director of LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois while also running a blog that focuses on non-profits. Jerome’ has also served as the associate director of CCS Fundraising and worked in the office of Illinois Governor Pat Quinn.
A Lesson
We asked: Tell us about a piece of childhood advice that shaped your career.
Jerome’ shared: A word of advice I received as a kid that remains true to this day is “remain true to yourself.” This valuable wisdom from my mother guided both how I live my life authentically and the career and jobs I have chosen.
A Turning Point
We asked: What advice would you share with someone looking to change their career?
Jerome’ shared: For those looking to change careers, I advise to not be afraid of the change and to make sure you are prepared. This includes prepping with the language, network, or skills that will allow you to transition to the new field with limited setbacks and obstacles.
A Guidepost
We asked: What are the most important characteristics of a leader?
Jerome’ shared: My recent participation in the Civic Leadership Academy at the University of Chicago taught me that being a leader is more than showing up to the workplace and having the skills and capacity to get work done. To truly impact and inspire change, leaders must be vulnerable, show authenticity, and implement storytelling to connect with their audience.
Thank you, Jerome’, for participating in “A Moment With”; we are proud to call you a loyal friend of the WBDC. To learn more about Jerome’, find him on LinkedIn. To learn more about the LGBT Chamber of Commerce of Illinois, visit their website or follow them on LinkedIn.
