AUGUST 2025 by Phenomenal Woman Magazine

WOMAN Wphenomenal

WOMAN W WOMAN Wphenomenal

MIESHA WILSON

WEIGHT

JAZMIN LONG

PRESIDENT AND CEO, Birthing Beautiful Communities

phenomenal WOMAN Wphenomenal

Beletu (Belé) Wondwossen

Founder / Publisher

Shelley M. Shockley

Managing Editor

Writers

Shelley M. Shockley

Marsha Walker Eastwood

Brittany Garrett

Rhonda Crowder

Creative

Belé Wondwossen

Jason Garrett

Cover Story: Shelley M. Shockley

Photos: Jason Garrett

Contributing Writers

Rhonda Crowder

Michelle Phillips Fay

Marianna Marron

Letitia Nall

Stephanie Phelps

Kimberly Smith-Woodford

Advertising

FromtheEditor: Shelley M. Shockley

RELEASE THE STRESS, CHOOSE YOU, FIRST!

As summer begins her exit, children return to school and the days get shorter, make time for you! I recently read a post or advertisement encouraging women to invest in themselves. I am paraphrasing, but the gist is the same “Take the trip. Buy the dress. Enjoy each day!”

Nurturing is a concept ingrained in the psyche of women. We cook, we clean, and we listen to problems and negotiate truces to keep the peace. As a people, we emulate the behavior of our elders – so, the behaviors we witnessed our mothers and grandmothers do as children we repeat in adulthood. All of these responsibilities come after we have worked eight or more hours doing similar tasks at work. We may not cook and clean, but the job of listening and negotiating is a key component of our jobs.

We are also living in a toxic environment where women are feeling the brunt of the rollbacks taking place with Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and many other social service programs. This makes it more imperative that we choose ourselves first, and take time out daily to breathe and rejuvenate our spirits to concur the next day.

Recently, I spent time attending an event mingling with peers and colleagues I had not seen in many years. The joy and sense of self I felt was amazing. Spend quality time doing things that will bring you joy, and venture outside to enjoy the sun – before long we will long for that warmth.

In this edition, we are focusing on women's health from eating well to exercise and safe spaces to birth beautiful babies.

You may be aware of the NuLife Fitness Centers, founded by Miesha Wilson many years ago. Her boot camp style fitness services have been transforming the lives of Clevelanders for more

than a decade. Today, she is expanding her brand with Juicy Vegan and NuLife University. The goal is to help us eat better and to educate future fitness trainers. To learn more about the success of the NuLife Fitness brand, check out our feature on Wilson.

Fitness is not always the answer for women. Many of us want to shed unwanted pounds in days and weeks to fit the dress for the wedding, reunion or gala. Manufacturers of rapid weight loss programs saturate the market with testimonials of losing two-three dress sizes in a matter of weeks. The imagery is so compelling we begin to reach for our credit cards before the commercial ends.

As with many things in life, if it looks too good to be true – it is! Columnist Marsha Walker Eastwood is here to help you save your hardearned paychecks and find other ways to shed the unwanted fat.

Our cover story focuses on the work of Birthing Beautiful Communities, CEO, Jazmin Long. Long, is a native of Bridgeport, Connecticut who fell in love with Cleveland and has made our city her home. Not only is she happy to be here, she is committed to ensuring our mothers and children are given the opportunity to celebrate their first birthday and many more.

Please read the cover story and learn how you can help make a difference in the lives of women and children with by sharing information and stories that uplift and enlighten our women. BBC will soon break ground on the construction of a Birthing Center in Hough. This is a place not only to give birth, but to be in community with one another. Read more about it and consider sharing your time.

Until next time, be well!

RELEASE THE STRESS, CHOOSE YOU, FIRST!

THE EFFECT OF RAPID WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS ON YOUR BUDGET

TRI-C 2025-2026 LECTURES FOCUSED ON PERSONAL HEALTH & WELL-BEING

URSULINE COLLEGE NAMED CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN NURSING EDUCATION

WHO’S WHO IN BLACK CLEVELAND 17TH EDITION

MIESHA WILSON

With a mission to help people become the best version of themselves, by building strength—inside and out, Wilson, a hard-working Clevelander, is credited with establishing the NuLife Fitness brand, which culminated from her deep desire to help others –not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.

JAZMIN LONG

Long, a native of Bridgeport, Connecticut, chose Cleveland sight unseen to attend graduate school at Case Western Reserve's Mandel School of Applied Sciences. She graduated with dual master's degrees in social work and non-profit management and enjoyed her experiences in her adopted hometown.

THE EFFECT OF RAPID WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMS ON YOUR BUDGET

“Acting impulsively may spark instant thrills, yet the exhilaration tends to fade, leaving room for disillusionment in its wake. Rushed decisions often overlook crucial details, leading to regret and unsatisfactory outcomes over time. Embracing thoughtful consideration and patience can shield you from hasty choices, paving the way for more fulfilling experiences and reducing the likelihood of disappointment in the long run. Choose the path of delayed gratification; it paves the way for lasting success.” – Malala Yousafzai

The air crackles with the energy of a thousand unspoken promises. Neon signs blaze, casting a garish glow on the rain-slicked streets of the city. This wasn't just any city; it was the epicenter, the beating heart of the multibillion-dollar weight-loss industry. A landscape shaped not by nature, but by the relentless churn of marketing machinery, fueled by our deepest insecurities and desires. Here, hope and desperation mingle in the air, a potent cocktail that could leave you either invigorated or broke.

Take a moment to consider the vast scale of it all. Billions, Not millions, but billions of dollars flow into a market driven by the promise of transformation—a quick fix for a problem as complex and personal as weight management. The players are many: corporations, their marketing teams, celebrity endorsements, social media influencers—all weaving an intricate web of aspirational images and tempting offers. Each player is a skilled puppet master, pulling the strings of our desires and exploiting our vulnerabilities with precision and ruthless efficiency.

These aren't mere products; they are solutions, lifelines thrown to those drowning in a sea of self-doubt, victims of a culture that equates worth with physical appearance. And the price? Often, it's exorbitant, a cruel irony given that many of these products are not only ineffective but also actively harmful to the user

The lure is potent. The promise of quick results, of shedding pounds without effort, is too tempting to resist for many. It's easy to imagine a world where swallowing a pill or drinking a special concoction can make pounds melt away. This was the fantasy sold, and it preyed on the desperation of countless individuals struggling with their weight, those who had tried and failed repeatedly with traditional methods. It whispered of a shortcut, a magic bullet to bypass the hard work, the discipline, the consistency needed for genuine, lasting change.

But beneath the glossy veneer of these advertisements lay a darker reality. The deceptive marketing tactics were often brazen, bordering on the fraudulent. Beforeand-after photos, meticulously retouched and manipulated, presented unrealistic transformations. Testimonials, usually paid for and carefully selected, painted a picture of miraculous results, concealing the numerous failures and disappointments experienced by the majority

The weight-loss industry isn't just a market; it's a system. A system that profits from our struggles, from our insecurities. It's a system where the pursuit of the

“perfect” body becomes a financial drain, a relentless cycle of purchasing ineffective products and programs, only to be left feeling more defeated and financially depleted than before.

These companies often target specific demographics, focusing on those most vulnerable to their tactics. Young adults, who are still finding their footing in the world and usually lack the financial savvy to discern deceptive marketing, are particularly susceptible. Similarly, individuals struggling with low self-esteem or body image issues are particularly vulnerable to the emotional appeal of these products, readily grasping at promises of transformation.

The manipulation extends beyond the advertising itself The language used is carefully crafted to create a sense of urgency, portraying a limited-time opportunity that fuels impulsive purchasing decisions. Fear-mongering tactics are frequently employed, creating a sense of panic and desperation to fuel sales. The very design of the marketing campaigns—the use of bright colors, emotionally charged images, catchy jingles, and dancing people endorsements—all serve to amplify the message and bypass rational thought.It is a business fueled by our desire for a quick fix, a desire that often costs us far more than just money. It cost us our time, our mental health, and a healthy respect for our bodies. The allure is intoxicating, but its illusion is often cruel, and the price of the quick fix is often ruinous.

Consider the common "before-and-after" photos. These images, often the focal point of weight-loss ads, rarely tell the full story. What appears isn't always what actually happens. Hours of photo editing, strategic lighting, and sometimes even the use of body doubles are often used to create the illusion of dramatic change. The "before" photo may be taken at an unflattering angle with poor lighting, while the "after" photo is carefully retouched to remove every imperfection. The result? A stark contrast that doesn't really reflect most people's actual experiences. The subtle yet significant edits—like adjusting waistlines or smoothing skin—can easily mislead viewers, promising results that are nearly impossible to achieve without extreme measures like liposuction or other invasive procedures. These images tap into our natural desire for instant results and visual appeal, creating a strong subconscious pull toward the advertised product.

The sophisticated advertising strategies extend beyond images and testimonials. The language used is designed to manipulate emotions rather than inform. Words like "revolutionary," "breakthrough," and "miracle" are frequently employed, evoking a sense of excitement and urgency. Claims are often exaggerated, if not outright fabricated. Phrases such as "lose 10 pounds in a week!" or "melt away fat without exercise!" and “you can still

eat anything you want when drinking this miracle water drink!” are common, even though these promises often lack scientific backing and are rarely achievable for the majority. This deliberate exaggeration taps into our desire for quick results and instant gratification, bypassing our logical reasoning and focusing on our emotional desires. The language subtly reinforces the perception of the product as a shortcut, avoiding the hard work and discipline that is often necessary for lasting weight management. The careful selection of words amplifies our desires, even if those desires are unrealistic or ultimately lead to disappointment.

The danger lies in the smooth shift from the initial, seemingly reasonable investment to the overwhelming surge of later expenses. The fine print, often intentionally hidden and hard to understand, makes the financial reality even more complicated. The initial excitement and hope are gradually worn down by constant pressure to spend more, leaving many feeling financially stuck and emotionally drained. The promise of a quick fix, like effortless weight loss, is systematically replaced by a relentless and costly chase after an impossible goal. It's a manipulative game, skillfully played by companies that exploit the vulnerabilities and insecurities of those seeking a shortcut to wellness. The true cost of these programs goes far beyond money; it includes the loss of trust, the emotional toll of disappointment, and the damage to self-esteem. The lesson learned is tough: the path to real well-being is rarely paved with shortcuts, and true change almost never comes cheap—especially when the price is hidden behind deceptive marketing tricks.

The insidious nature of these weight-loss schemes extends far beyond the purely financial. They prey on deeply ingrained psychological vulnerabilities, exploiting our insecurities and anxieties surrounding body image and self-esteem. The weight-loss industry thrives on a pervasive societal pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, a pressure relentlessly amplified by

social media and the pervasive influence of carefully curated online personas. This pressure creates fertile ground for manipulative marketing strategies, turning vulnerable individuals into willing participants in a cycle of spending and disappointment.

A key takeaway is the importance of critical thinking. Consumers need to be equipped with the tools and knowledge to evaluate claims made by health and wellness companies critically. This involves maintaining a healthy skepticism toward exaggerated promises, unsubstantiated claims, and testimonials that lack transparency. Many people initially lack the critical thinking skills necessary to distinguish credible information from misleading marketing tactics. You must learn to scrutinize product labels, research the qualifications of individuals promoting health and wellness products or programs, and look for independent verification of company claims. Recognize that true expertise resides in the realm of registered dietitians, licensed therapists, and certified personal trainers, rather than in the glossy marketing materials of unproven products.

In his psychoanalytic theory of personality, Freud wrote that the pleasure principle is the driving force of the id, or , which seeks immediate gratification of our personality all needs, wants, and urges.However, it is essential to remember that sustainable change involves finding a balance between your health goals and your financial capabilities. It's not about deprivation; it's about making mindful choices that support your well-being without compromising your financial stability. It's about aligning your values with your spending habits, creating a harmonious relationship between your health goals and your financial resources. This mindful approach ensures that your pursuit of a healthier lifestyle is not only practical but also financially responsible, laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and joyful journey toward well-being. g

TRI-C ANNOUNCES 2025-2026 LECTURES FOCUSED ON PERSONAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

Learning for Life Series events take place at Westshore Campus starting in September

WESTLAKE — The 2025-2026 season of the Robert Searson Learning for Life program at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) will focus on personal health and well-being.

These free lectures at the Westshore Campus explore the multifaceted ways people can improve their lives — emotional, physical, mental, financial and more.

“We're incredibly excited to continue the Learning for Life program at Westshore Campus," said Claire McMahon, Ph.D., the dean of Academic Success at the Westshore Campus. "These lectures have been a fantastic way to welcome the community to our campus while showcasing our faculty's knowledge."

The 2025-2026 lineup of events is as follows:

Fall 2025

§ Reducing Financial Vulnerability

Sept. 10

§ Effects of Inadequate Sleep

Oct. 8

§ Impact of Lack of Physical Activity

Nov. 12

Spring 2026

§ Unemployment and Job Creation Strategies | Feb. 11

§ Heart Disease and Diabetes

March 18

§ Fostering Economic and Social Independence | April 15

staff, students and guest speakers. Originally launched in 2014 as the Year of the Brain, the Learning for Life program continues to bring the community lectures on topics such as the arts, culture, wellness and current local, national and international events. The series includes a variety of themes designed to improve the quality of life in the community and establish the Westshore Campus as a resource for learning and enrichment for students and the greater community.

Learn more and register for upcoming events on the Learning for Life web page.

All events take place from noon – 1 p.m. in the SLT Commons. The Westshore Campus is located at 31001 Clemens Road in Westlake.

The Robert Searson Learning for Life program provides the College and community with enriching topics and information presented by Tri-C faculty,

EXPANDING NULIFE TO INCLUDE VEGAN RESTAURANT Miesha Wilson

By M. Abebe PWM Writer

According to studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), lack of access to affordable and nutritious food is associated with poor dietary quality and an increased risk of diet-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Those of lower socioeconomic status (SES) and racial and ethnic minority groups experience higher rates of food insecurity, are more likely to live in under-resourced food environments, and continue to bear the greatest burden of diet-related chronic diseases in the US.

Another challenge impacting our society is the insufficient level of physical activity. People who are not active enough face a 20% to 30% higher risk of death compared to those who are sufficiently active.

One woman is exerting concerted efforts to address both the challenges simultaneously and has achieved positive results. Meet Miesha Wilson, a Cleveland native who not only overcame adverse conditions in her upbringing but achieved remarkable success in her career.

With a mission to help people become the best version of themselves, by building strength—inside and out, Wilson, a hard-working Clevelander, is credited with establishing the NuLife brand, which culminated from her deep desire to help others –not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.

She is also the owner of Juicy Vegan, a plant-based eatery that promotes a healthier lifestyle and strives to make plant-based eating more accessible, especially in communities where healthy options are limited. If these major undertakings were not enough, Wilson recently launched NuLife University, where the next generation of group fitness instructors is certified—especially targeting young people in underserved communities.

Young Miesha had a challenging upbringing but cherishes many beautiful memories of playing with cousins, family functions, and reunions during her childhood. She also considered herself a nerd, loved learning, and took part in spelling bees and science fairs.

Following high school, Wilson enrolled at Cuyahoga Community College and obtained an Associate of Applied Business before joining Tiffin University, where she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration. She then pursued her studies and earned her Master of Business Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University.

On reflection, Wilson never thought she would become an entrepreneur, but now she wouldn't trade the rewards of building her own business for anything. “I went to college to gain the skills and knowledge to run

corporations. I never knew God was preparing me to run my own. However, what ultimately motivated me to become an entrepreneur was my thirst for creating an additional revenue stream while helping others.”

While earning her MBA, Wilson was curious about her wellness journey as a young black woman navigating life, career, and trauma. “I saw how fitness became a tool for healing and empowerment, and I knew I wanted to create a space where others—especially women—could experience that same kind of breakthrough.” She said, “I envisioned a program that went beyond the typical gym model. I wanted something immersive, community-driven, and resultsfocused. That's how NuLife was born. It's not just a fitness camp; it's a safe haven for transformation.”

What makes NuLife a standout among its peers is that it offers a holistic and structured approach to wellness. According to Wilson, NuLife's signature program is a weight management camp, which includes weekly fitness assessments, body fat tracking, and personalized coaching to help members stay accountable and see real progress. Also included is a full slate of group fitness classes—from bootcamp cardio to indoor cycling, step aerobics, and strength training.

Wilson also owns and operates Juicy Vegan, a plantbased eatery that promotes a healthier lifestyle, and in the process, transforming the landscape of Cleveland's vegan scene to another level by championing bold flavors.

“Juicy Vegan is more than just a restaurant—it's a movement. We serve flavor-packed, plant-based meals that show people healthy food can still taste amazing. Our goal is to make plant-based eating more accessible, especially in communities where healthy options are limited.” Wilson said. “We offer a variety of hot, fresh, cooked-to-order items like Vegan Philly, Rice bowls, salads, smoothies, and even vegan comfort food that speaks to our cultural roots—think soul food made healthier.”

It is Black-owned, woman-led, and rooted in the heart of the Waterloo Arts District of Cleveland, which is in a food desert. “We're not just feeding people—we're creating jobs, revitalizing our neighborhood, and proving that food can be both healing and transformative,” Wilson said. “We're also proud to be a hub for health education—we host events, workshops, and collaborate with other local businesses and nonprofits to promote wellness and economic empowerment.

The benefits and importance of owning a business property are well documented. While it means more responsibilities and expenses, it is a great way to build equity and increase the value of one's business.

Continued on next page

The clever-minded Wilson fully understood this concept early on and purchased the real estate where her businesses are housed. In so doing, she became one of the few African American women to own the real estate in which her business is located within the Waterloo Arts District. She stressed, “Leveraging real estate has truly helped boost our portfolio, and I want women to recognize the importance of acquiring real estate.”

According to the 2023 Annual Business Survey, there were approximately 5.9 million U.S. employer firms, of which 1.3 million (22.6%) were minority-owned; 273,542 (4.7%) were veteran-owned; and around 1.3 million (22.3%) were owned by women.

Women-owned businesses had an estimated $2.1 trillion in receipts, 11.4 million employees, and $508.5 billion in annual payroll. There were an estimated 194,585 Black or African American-owned businesses with $211.8 billion in annual receipts, 1.6 million employees, and about $61.2 billion in annual payroll. While all new businesses face various challenges; small, minority, and women-owned businesses are faced with greater obstacles and daunting challenges.

“One of the biggest challenges for women entrepreneurs—especially black women—is access to capital. We often have to build our businesses with limited resources, and many of us are overlooked when it comes to funding opportunities, grants, or investments.” Wilson said. “There's also the constant pressure to prove ourselves in industries that weren't built with us in mind. We wear so many hats—founder, marketer, HR, operations—all while managing families and showing up for our communities. It can be exhausting, but it also fuels our resilience.”

To help alleviate the problems and ensure that small business owners and women-owned businesses thrive in the industry, Wilson stressed the need for more equitable funding, mentorship opportunities, and access to networks that are often gatekept. She said, “Local governments, banks, and large corporations need to be intentional about investing in women-led businesses, not just with words but with resources. And we as a

community can support by shopping local, sharing platforms, and creating ecosystems where collaboration is valued over competition.”

Various studies indicate that a lack of access to a healthy diet affects the health of our society. Lowincome and minority communities are disproportionately impacted by these problems, experiencing higher rates of diet-related diseases. “This is something I'm deeply passionate about because I live and work in a community that's directly impacted. Many low-income and minority neighborhoods are food deserts—places where there's no access to fresh, affordable, and nutritious food.” Wilson said. “Instead, we're surrounded by fast food and high-fat options, which contribute to high rates of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. But the issue is bigger than just food—it's about systemic inequality.”

According to Wilson, a multi-layered approach is necessary to tackle these challenges. “That means policy reform to support food justice, investment in local food infrastructure, and education programs that teach families how to nourish themselves on a budget. It also means funding and supporting Black- and womenowned businesses that are already doing the work on the ground.”

Wilson recently completed the twelve-week core City impact program organized by JumpStart Inc. The free program is designed to drive economic impact in Cleveland by helping individuals overcome obstacles to entrepreneurship through hands-on advising and industry-specific mentoring. She appreciated the support she received from JumpStart and the Minority Business Development Center at the Urban League of Greater Cleveland in boosting her entrepreneurial career.

Away from her exciting work, Wilson enjoys spending time with her husband, children, extended family, and friends. She said, “My husband and I love entertaining and are truly just family-oriented people. We love concerts and great restaurants.”

Wilson has made it a priority to mentor others-especially young women, aspiring entrepreneurs, and future fitness leaders. Mentoring can be fulfilling and is one of the most powerful tools we have for growth, healing, and legacy-building, says Wilson. Through her NuLife University, she is creating pathways for the next generation of group fitness instructors, many of whom come from underserved communities. She believes that kind of mentorship changes lives and gives people not just skills but belief in themselves.

Wilson's next steps are multi-faceted, and given the encouraging results she achieved so far, expansion with purpose is her next order of business. “At Juicy Vegan, we're growing into a larger space that will allow us to serve more people, expose more of the community to plant-based options, and leverage the real estate we own by building out affordable leasing space that will in turn create a community hub where other small businesses can thrive.” She said.“We're not just building a restaurant we're building an ecosystem that supports health, entrepreneurship, and generational wealth. We're also planning events like A Taste of Vegan to collaborate with other vegan-based organizations to introduce plant-based eating, while intertwining music and art. We will also be able to handle vegan catering, meal prep, and offer plant-based breakfast options.

With her firm commitment that fitness should be accessible to everyone, Wilson plans to launch new programs like the NuLife Chair Fitness class, designed specifically for individuals with physical limitations, seniors, or those just starting their fitness journey

She also adheres to a well-defined strategic plan to grow her non-profit organization, NuLife University, through equipping “the next generation of leaders not just with knowledge, but with the confidence and tools to transform lives through fitness—because true wellness includes everyone.”

When asked to convey messages to the community, Wilson said, “You are worthy of wellness. You are worthy of healing, growth, joy, and good food.Don't ever feel like you have to shrink yourself or your vision. I am a proud product of Cleveland's Glenville neighborhood and, at one point, the Outhwaite community—places that taught me resilience, creativity, and the power of community”

Closing out the interview, Wilson stated, “We are living proof that dreams can grow in hard places. And let me add this: you don't have to be pigeonholed into one lane. It's okay to evolve. It's okay to diversify your offerings, your passions, and your impact. Growth doesn't mean you've changed—it means you've expanded. I'm here to serve, to build, and to rise alongside you—because when one of us rises, we all rise.” g

URSULINE COLLEGE NAMED CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN NURSING EDUCATION

The National League for Nursing has again

named Ursuline a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education for enhanced student learning and professional development. Ursuline is the only private higher education institution in Ohio with this designation.

“Since the College was first named an NLN Center of Excellence in 2021,” said Patricia Sharpnack, DNP, RN, CNE, NEA-BC, ANEF, FAAN, dean of Ursuline College's Breen School of Nursing and Health Professions, “we've pioneered a unique corporate partnership to develop an online doctoral-level nurse anesthesia program, launched the state's first Emergency Nurse Practitioner and led the way in adopting innovative technologies like HoloLens and Resuscitation Quality Improvement for CPR training ”

Sharpnack added, “Our students receive more than a cutting-edge nursing education--they become part of the next generation of nurse leaders that are shaping the future of healthcare.”

Ursuline College President David A. King, EdD, expressed gratitude for the NLN's continued recognition. “This honor affirms that you don't need to

be the biggest school to deliver exceptional nursing education. Key ingredients are passionate, dedicated faculty and staff and strong leadership—qualities we are proud to have in Dr. Sharpnack and her team.”

Among Ursuline's standout faculty is Dr. Caitlin Yeager, Director of the Health Resources and Simulation Center, who was recently named a Fellow of the NLN Academy of Nursing Education—the highest honor for a nurse educator. “We are fortunate to have nationally recognized professors like Dr. Yeager,” said Sharpnack. “Their expertise and mentorship are vital to our students' success.”

Ursuline College and Dr. Yeager will be formally recognized at the 2025 NLN Education Summit Honors Convocation on Friday, September 19, in Orlando, Florida. The National League for Nursing, the premier organization for nurse faculty and nursing education leaders, represents nearly 45,000 individuals and 1,000 institutions across the country

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PHOTOS: JASON GARRETT THE BLUSH GALLERY

JAZMIN LONG

WORKING TO ENSURE CLEVELAND'S BIRTHING BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITIES CONTINUES TO THRIVE

Shelley M. Shockley PWM Managing Editor

Cleveland has long been the target of jokes, and unfortunately, its residents have sometimes been the loudest critics. Many visitors wonder why locals speak so harshly about their hometown, but Jazmin Long, an East Coast transplant, quickly understood the reason for the disconnect between natives and newcomers.

Long recalls the astonishment from her peers that she liked Cleveland. She said, “I came here, and I enjoyed myself, and people were like, oh, you like Cleveland? We need to make sure she stays here. We must make sure that she feels welcome.”

What was it she saw in Cleveland that many of her residents did not? Coming from Connecticut, while the cost of living was one key factor, the strong sense of community was ultimately what claimed her heart.

Jazmin's passion for community development and advocacy paired with her independence and confidence shapes how she informs her decisions.

Her independence stems from being the oldest child and grandchild, and as she says, “I think I've always been a little junior mom and had to be very responsible.” In addition, she was an inquisitive child who learned to read at four years old, a gift and pastime that was very important to her grandmother. As a gifted child, her family did not learn she had a disability until later in life. At five years old they discovered that she is 100% deaf in her left ear

Every day, my job is to be able to help our broader community see the value in supporting black moms and families and babies and making sure they get to that first year of life. “ ”

Armed with her graduate degrees, she began working for Global Cleveland, where her work centered on positioning members of the immigrant community as assets in the community and helping to grow the region. At the same time, Long was working to grow the Cleveland Young Professional Minority Women's Group, an organization she founded in graduate school with a similar mission – to position women of color as assets in the great Cleveland community.

Of this work, she said, “What I saw as a transplant was that it was a unique time to move to Cleveland. I saw that I had access to places and things that people from Cleveland didn't necessarily have access to. I wanted to introduce other young women to C-Suite leaders, have conversations about work-life balance and other things to begin to grow their career, and build a network.”

Coming to Cleveland, specifically to Case Western was not happenstance. The social work program included a macro focused program. Long explained, “The program is not just focused on micro social work (counseling), but it's also focused on helping folks understand community development, and because my interest really lay in doing community engagement and community development work, I said, oh, well, let me go to the info session to learn more.” The session convinced her that the Case program was where she needed to study, and the rest is history.

Prior to the diagnosis, Long believes she overcompensated for the lack of auditory skills in her left ear. She hears strongly out of her right ear, and as a youngster she zoned into things, being intentional and hyper-focused on her surroundings and experiences.

She explained, “I think in some ways those played a part in making me who I am today. I was a latchkey kid. So how do we respond when my mom worked and had to make sure my sister and I were safe and taken care of, had dinner and all that we needed to get by? All of those factors led to me being a very responsible child growing up ”

These characteristics have followed her into her college career and business. Her friends in college joked that she would be the least likely to frolic or play. She said, “I'm just straightforward, focused, and all about the business of work.” Long would later in life discover the value of play and joy as fuel to keep going.

While working for Global Cleveland, Long began to hear stories about the infant mortality crisis in Cleveland and that, Birthing Beautiful Communities, was looking to hire someone in fund development. She was intrigued by the opportunity but had qualms about leaving a higher paying position that she loved. In the end she said it was “mission being bigger than the person and the money.”

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Long said that while you may take a pay cut for a job, it should be something you are passionate about, and you should understand where you are in life with the possibility to bounce back and earn more in the future.

Adding clarity to the decision, she said that the fund development space in Cleveland is small and when factoring in black women, the space becomes even smaller. And to effectively communicate the story of Birthing Beautiful Communities for babies and women of color, who could tell that story better than a black woman.

Birthing Beautiful Communities was founded in 2014 by African American trained Perinatal Support Persons (PSP) in the Glenville neighborhood. Since its inception, the organization has served as an agency for training, certifying, and employing PSPs who provide services for the women at highest risk for infant death.

The BBC website reports that in April 2016, with support from the Cleveland Foundation, BBC began its pilot program, in the Hough neighborhood, where the infant mortality rate was nearly 4 times the national rate of 5.748% of deaths per 1000 live births. This support enabled the organization to formalize its platform for recruiting, retaining, training, and hiring women from neighborhoods highly impacted by infant mortality to join its mission.

Since receiving 501c3 nonprofit status in 2017, BBC has served thousands of clients and trained more than 200 women as Perinatal Support Professionals, combating the social determinants that lead to poor birth outcomes. Today, the organization sees 800 clients annually between Summit and Cuyahoga Counties. The

organization continues to train, prepare, educate and employ women to become birth workers. BBC's grassroots and culturally centered model improves infant health, strengthens families, and establishes support to ensure ongoing family success.

BBC is Northeast Ohio's only community-based doula program working to improve the quality of life for expectant Black mothers, babies, and families. Since its inception, the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) continues to rise. According to the 2023 Cuyahoga County Child Fatality Report, the IMR of 8.82% per 1000 births is the highest in a 5-year period and the second highest in a 10-year period, highlighting the need for BBC. The rate for black non-Hispanic babies is 3.72 times that of white non-Hispanic babies.

Today, Long is the President & CEO of BBC, following her first two years solely focused on fund development. While her responsibilities have expanded, development is still a key role and priority. She explained, “Every day, my job is to be able to help our broader community see the value in supporting black moms and families and babies and making sure they get to that first year of life.” She describes these conversations as the most challenging part of her job because, “we're trying to make folks see us as human beings in some ways.”

To engage the black community where funds may not be as readily available, she said a multifaceted approach is taken. Donating is always welcome, but equally as important is “paying it forward” to young mothers through testimonials and volunteering to support the clients and programs.

Long said, “So right now, we offer our services completely free of charge, and we want to keep it that way and encourage companies and individuals to support. Through volunteerism, sharing their stories, and through education, I think it's important particularly, when we have our teens participating in the program, we want them to hear from other people who may have been teen parents and who have been able to, overcome the stigma associated with that, and to still find success in their lives.”

The services offered cover labor support, life goal planning, OWN Mental Health Services, lactation support, grocery shopping, and transportation. Perinatal Support Specialists (PSP) are tasked with providing continuous labor support to the birthing parent, which includes understanding and supporting the birth plan of the client.

The Childbirth Education Series is offered within the Labor Support. Classes offered are culturally-centered and include Birth Planning 101, which teaches clients the importance of a birth plan, how to create a birth plan, and the choices mothers have during labor, what to expect during labor, and relaxation for natural labor.

The support is transferred to the Doulas during labor; these professionals take on the role of support person, labor coach, instructor, peer counselor and peer advisor. These services are birth-specific, but after delivery, BBC continues to support the birthing parent and family with the array of services offered.

Today, these programs and services are offered virtually and in public community meeting spaces, while funds are raised for BBC's permanent home soon to be th erected on E. 65 and Chester in Cleveland's Hough neighborhood. This will be the first freestanding Birth Center in the state of Ohio

BBC has been working on the construction of the Birthing Center for nearly a decade. Long was brought to the organization to lead fundraising for the Center.

She said of the project, “It's going to be unique, something that is special to our community, and something that creates an opportunity for folks to have a warm birthing experience outside of just a hospital setting, and to receive compassionate care at this facility.”

A lot of the work that the organization does is around changing the view of birth, offering joyful loving images of bringing new lives into the world. Long believes this facility will help rewrite the narrative and allow black women to have the essential care they need.

She continued, “I'm really excited for what it will mean in terms of being able to get something like this done and accomplished, what it will mean for people to view birth in a different way.”

The facility will be more than a place to give birth. It will house the offices of BBC, meeting spaces and a test kitchen. It will be a hub of activity celebrating new life. The happiness that should come with childbirth has been missing in the lives of many black women due to many factors including the social determinants of health outcomes.

BIRTHING BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITIES

To illustrate the impact of traumas, Long suggested looking at the correlation between mass incarceration of black men and the decrease of breastfeeding in black communities. She said, “When I first started in this work, I could not understand or think about mass incarceration and its ties to the lack of breastfeeding in black communities. But the correlation is that when you took uncles, fathers, and cousins out of the home, you took away men who would be able to help, one, with income for the family, but also alleviate some stressors for mom. Then moms had to go to work immediately, and they couldn't breastfeed, and with workplace discrimination, they couldn't breastfeed as freely as they can now ”

She further explained that even today, it's still a struggle in some workplaces for mothers to find space for lactation. Today, it is illegal to deny this benefit to nursing mothers.

Long noticed that the unfamiliarity with lactation is only one of the many unknown cultural norms impacting how parents bond with their children. Many new parents are unfamiliar with the time-honored tradition of taking photographs in the hospital to commemorate the birth. As she navigates this space, she is learning how to have these conversations, to educate herself so she can learn, think and grow in this space in a way that helps the birthing parent grow and succeed.

As the CEO, Long says she is a tactical employee and has her hands on a lot of the processes. To assist with running the operation, she has support staff but her primary focus or her “North Star” is the construction of the Birthing Center.

Continued on next page

When discussing challenges facing the organization, Long said, “It's going to be making sure that we continue to take care of our clients. We have a high Medicaid population, so it depends on what we start to see with respect to Medicaid.” To prepare for potential challenges she said BBC monitors what is going on daily because adverse changes will have a major impact on the care the women choose.

As a community-based and focused organization when asked about stopgaps, she challenges the community to see BBC as a resource for all women. She said, “I've had women tell me they didn't seek our services because they didn't want to take away from another woman who needed it. Yet they tell me they had a bad birth experience, so at the end of the day they needed our services too ”

To ensure that women from all socioeconomic backgrounds access BBC services, she encourages them to see the Birthing Center and BBC as a space for them as well as those who may be marginalized. To illustrate the importance of knowing this she said, “For African American women with a master's degree, we're more likely to lose our baby than a white woman with no high school diploma. Toxic stress is pervasive, medical racism is pervasive, and we can't allow ourselves to think that we don't need help.”

To drive the point she said, “Maybe your income is a little higher, it doesn't make you any less deserving to receive these services. The services we offer are high-quality care that someone will pay $2,500 to $5,000 to receive and we offer it free of charge.”

She continued, “Of course, we can always say donations, donations, but I think even more important is making sure women feel comfortable knowing they have a place to come at Birthing Beautiful Communities, and we are here to service all members of our community”

If Jazmin Long had the opportunity to speak with an 18-year-old version of herself, the advice she would give is “Truly and honestly put your faith in God and trust in yourself. If you ask someone for advice and they give it, trust what they are telling you. Finally, continue to listen to and trust yourself”

When she's not negotiating new donations or overseeing the operations of BBC, the new homeowner enjoys entertaining and relaxing at home. She's also a member of several boards and enjoys being of service to the community.

Dr. Maya Angelou, the renowned poet and author, once said, "If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you will have succeeded." By all measures, Jazmin Long's dedicated service and remarkable work have transformed countless lives. But, we are reminded that more is to come, so stay tuned!

To learn more about the work of BBC, visit the website at www.birthingbeautiful.org to follow the work they are doing and to be one of the first to know when the Birthing Center opens in 2026. g

PHENOMENAL

FACTS

§ Bachelor of Science – Government Connecticut College

§ Master's degree- Nonprofit Administration CWRU’s Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences

§ Master's Degree – Social Administration CWRU’s Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences

Awards and Recognition:

§ YWCA Woman of Achievement Award: Recognized by the YWCA of Greater Cleveland as part of the 2025 class for her work with Birthing Beautiful Communities.

§ 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland Health & Wellness Award: Honored in 2022 for her outstanding work in uplifting the community

§ Case Western Reserve University Innovator of the Year: Received the award in 2023 for her innovative work in maternal and infant health with Birthing Beautiful Communities.

§ SBN Smart Women Award Honoree: Recognized in 2023 for her achievements and leadership.

§ Serves on the inaugural advisory committee for Collaborate Cleveland, an organization focused on women and gender justice.

§ Serves as an Adjunct Professor at Case Western Reserve University

§ Elected as the first Black board president in Near West Theatre's history.

§ Contributed to Global Cleveland's efforts in engaging leaders within Greater Cleveland's diverse communities.

Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency (PGHD) 101

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