#womanchangemaker Jamila Watson

Jul 28, 2021

This year marks my 10th year back in the Greater Cincinnati area. Hailing from Memphis, TN, I currently serve as Insights & Research Advisor for FedEx Services within its Insights, Innovation & Design organization. I am a deeply driven marketing professional with over 20 years of experience in and a successful track record in marketing research, brand strategy and innovation.

I am also a community leader with a passiona for servant leadership that is intrinsically weaved into all aspects of my life. I am heavily engaged with numerous local nonprofits. Current community roles include:

Board of Governors Member: The Metropolitan Club

Board Member: College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation

Steering Committee Member: Cincinnati Black Giving Circle, Greater Cincinnati Foundation

I am also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – celebrated 25 years of membership in December 2020. A knowledge-seeker at heart and always on my pursuit to grow, I love leadership development programs. I participated in the YWCA Greater Cincinnati’s Rising Star Leadership Development Program (completed 2012) as well as the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber’s WE Lead Program (completed 2020). And, I will be joining Leadership Northern Kentucky this fall.

What causes are closest to your heart? Why?

There are so many worthwhile causes that have caught my attention, but only a few I can “beat my drum” for a very few things. Those things have evolved over the years towards a heavier focus on gender and racial equity. I desire to become a stronger equity leader in the community where I work, live, play and serve – and, hopefully, shift towards regional, national and global efforts.

I am most committed to causes that support empowering and uplifting women. That’s one reason that I’m an advocate for and supporter of soHza sister. I’ve also served on boards and in other leadership capacities for women-focused nonprofit organizations such as YWCA Greater Cincinnati and Dress for Success Cincinnati & Portaluca Boutique.

I’m also starting to feel a calling towards initiatives focused on racial equity. I’ve only scratched the surface here and my dive into black philanthropy is currently at the forefront. So, my engagement with the Cincinnati Black Giving Circle is a natural fit within this realm.

Favorite Quote?