Recognized by ESSENCE Magazine as a top 40 executive under 40, Valeisha Butterfield Jones has blazed a humanitarian and entrepreneurial trail for nearly two decades. Valeisha is married to 2016 NBA champion Dahntay Jones of the Cleveland Cavaliers and is mother of three. She is also the daughter of U.S. Congressman G. K Butterfield and N.C. State Legislator Jean Farmer Butterfield. Have an interest in community engagement or entertainment? Then read on!
1) Why did you choose your profession? Currently, I serve as the Head of Black Community Engagement for Google which is responsible for strengthening and deepening the technology giant’s affinity to the Black community globally. I am also the current Co-founder and CEO of the Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network. As a music fan, I was always intrigued by the business behind the art. While in college, I worked for a music company and quickly realized my passion. It was to serve as a conduit to bridge the gap between pop culture and social justice. In my 20-year career, I’ve been extremely blessed and intentional about working in my craft and doing what I love.
2) What is the favorite part of your job? Making a difference in people’s lives, especially being able to provide budget, capital and resources to important projects that move our culture forward. Also, being responsible for the career development and advancement of young women.
3) What is the most difficult part of your job? Not being able to support or fund every great idea. Making those tough decisions are hard, especially when you know the ideas are viable.
4) Who is your mentor (if any)? My mentor in Kevin Liles. He invested in me at the very beginning of my career and is responsible for helping me navigate professionally.
5) Best piece of advice for someone pursuing your field? Plan, but don’t hold yourself hostage to fake timelines. Run your own race, celebrate the small wins and play the long game. Consistency is key.
6) If you have not chosen this profession would have you chosen instead? There has never been a Plan B.
7) Favorite designer? Stella McCartney and Alaia
8) Favorite makeup brand? Bobbi Brown
9) Favorite hair care? Carol’s Daughter
10) Favorite skin brand? Kiehl’s
11) If you could only choose 5 items to put in your purse everyday, what would they be? iPhone, carmex, pink carat lip gloss (MAC), small hairbrush and first aid kit for the kiddies.
12) Free plug:)– Anything you would like our readers to know that you are selling or creating or philanthropic organizations you are apart of? My organization the Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network (WEEN) just celebrated its tenth anniversary. We’re a coalition of women and men committed to supporting, promoting and defending the positive portrayal of women in society. Please visit for more info: www.weenonline.org
Education (Schools Attended)
Clark Atlanta University
Certifications or Licenses
Life:)
Memberships
Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network, Co-founder and CEO
Hip Hop Sisters, Board Member
Awards
Ebony 100, 2012
Essence Top 40 under 40, 2012
Elle Magazine Top 20 Women to Watch
The Root 100, 2012 and 2016
100 Black Women
Instagram and Twitter Social Media Handle
@Valeisha
Official Website (if any)