2021 Fellow Focus: Joyelle Naomi + Denver Independent School
Founder, homeschooling Mom, visionary…2021 Fellow Joyelle Naomi of Denver Independent School shares more about her #RuthlessForGood journey.
What propelled you into the entrepreneurial space? And what do you enjoy most about being a founder?
My own experience navigating the homeschooling world as a Black mom led me to other Black women who were experiencing similar cultural, economic and familial challenges. Those connections opened an opportunity to create a space of belonging and support for Black families that didn't exist in mainstream homeschool or traditional education spaces. My favorite thing about being a founder is having a dream and seeing it come to pass through the support of individuals and communities that believe in me and the mission and vision of Denver Independent School.
Tell me about an experience you had as an entrepreneur or in starting your company that exemplified one of Camelback's core values: "Belief in Mission + Vision"; "Unafraid of Failure"; "Constant Learner"; "Humble + Hungry"; and "Give First."
For the past 5 years I have faithfully worked to lay the foundation of my venture. During that time I have experienced really difficult life circumstances, loss and unexpected change all while still homeschooling my two children, eventually becoming a single mom and working full time. The continuous story of the struggles and triumphs of my own journey as well as those of the moms I've met along the way have helped to define Denver Independent School’s mission and vision. It's those stories that have birthed in me a deep belief in the power of connection (mission) and the beauty of free children (vision). From that deeply rooted belief in the mission and vision of the work births a perseverance and faithfulness to endure because we know that if we give up, our children will suffer. And that's just not an option.
As a BIPOC founder, Camelback understands that the struggle is constant, what motivates you to get up every day and keep on fighting?
Perspective is everything. Yes, the struggle is real... but the possibilities are greater! When I dream about the possible outcomes of the work we are doing, the actualization and fulfillment of the vision, it motivates me to get up. When I experience the outcomes of our children learning and laughing and exploring and believing in themselves, discovering the world around them and seeing themselves as ambassadors of love in it (and I have!), it produces a joy that keeps me going. If just one child and their family thrives, the struggle, the work -- all of it -- that's enough!
What's your favorite book or podcast that you draw entrepreneurial inspiration from?
The Bible! ...and the Earn Your Leisure Podcast is pretty dope too!
Why did you choose to embark on the Camelback Fellowship? And what do you hope to gain from this experience?
The Camelback Fellowship is one of the few entrepreneurial training opportunities that exists with me in mind as a woman of color to help me cultivate my venture and strengthen me as a leader. This fellowship will provide the resources and support I need to build a school with a foundation that will last and empower Black homeschooling families to succeed. I am deeply grateful to the Camelback team for believing in me.
You can learn more about ➡ Joyelle Naomi of Denver Independent School.
Get to know more of the 2021 Camelback Fellows👇🏽