Meet Jasmine Kent, owner of Jasmin LaVerne & Co., a business she started in 2019. This VCU alumni has always been involved with social impact organizations, and Jasmine LaVerne & Co. continues that mission as it shines a light on marginalized creatives, while making change in society. Learn more below.
Can you describe your business and its goal?
LoveJas Media started in my Cary Street apartment as a blog chronicling life as a PR student at VCU. After college, I freelanced under that name until securing a full-time job and after a few years in corporate, decided to officially start a media agency. In 2019, I launched what is now Jasmine LaVerne & Co. to shine a light on marginalized creatives and communities making positive change in society. Jasmine LaVerne & Co. is an integrated communications agency crafting brand awareness, go-to-market and audience engagement campaigns for impact-driven lifestyle brands and community organizations.
What inspired you to start your company?
Since childhood, I've always been involved with social impact organizations. As I navigated corporate America and "agency life," I noticed a disconnect between the work to reach marginalized communities through communications and marketing and their realities. I took a leap of faith to be a voice for the silenced and highlight the organic impact diverse communities have on American culture.
What is something that you wish you would have known before starting your business?
I wish I had a better awareness of the resources it takes to scale a media agency. Before starting my agency, I thought I was prepared on a business executive front, but being an executive is more than having great ideas and managing efficient teams.
How did VCU prepare you for this career?
In partnership with our Qatar campus, VCU hosted a summer course that propelled me as a leader and consultant able to work across cultures and influence stakeholders. During this course, we were paired in teams to consult with a Richmond-based nonprofit to develop and present social media strategies that inspired the work I do today.
What is the hardest part about being an entrepreneur? Best part?
The hardest part about being an entrepreneur is time management and work/life balance. The best part is witnessing people enjoy the experiences and content that my agency produces.
Where would you like to see your business in 5/10 years?
In 5 to 10 years, I'd like to see my agency expand its team and impact by creating tangible tools, products and experiences that inspire young adults to champion for social causes that strengthen our global society.
Check out Jasmin LaVerne & Co. online.