In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, certain individuals emerge as beacons of hope, innovation, and compassion. Annette Davis Jackson and Leola Williams, the visionary minds behind Stay Well Leola, epitomize this ethos with their commitment to promoting health and wellness in their communities. Their journey, as shared in a heartfelt conversation on our most recent episode of Women in Motion, reveals the resilience, determination, and a profound sense of purpose both women have.  

The Genesis of a Mission: 

Leola’s narrative unveils a pivotal moment during the COVID-19 crisis when the shortage of masks illuminated a critical gap in healthcare infrastructure. As a seasoned nurse with over three decades of experience, her instincts led her to take decisive action. Through her initiative, she donated masks to the VA Hospital, igniting a spark that would evolve into Stay Well Leola—a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of the pandemic. 

The Power of Connection and Collaboration: 

Annette’s perspective underscores the significance of relationships and resourcefulness in navigating challenges. Leveraging connections, they procured essential supplies amidst a competitive market, exemplifying the value of strategic partnerships in healthcare. Their ability to navigate hurdles and logistical challenges showcases the resilience and ingenuity that define their entrepreneurial spirit. 

Advocates for Health Equity and Education: 

Their journey extends beyond the mere provision of supplies, delving into the realms of education and advocacy. Annette’s background in nursing and coaching converges with Leola’s military experience to form a duo committed to patient safety, workforce health, and community empowerment. Together, they champion causes such as health equity, preventive care, and elder wellness. 

Entrepreneurship as a Vehicle for Change: 

Transitioning from their careers and moving into entrepreneurship was a natural progression for Annette and Leola. Their venture, Stay Well Leola, emerged as a platform not just for commerce but for social impact, serving as a testament to their belief that business success and societal goods are not mutually exclusive. Through their innovative approach to healthcare delivery and community engagement, they are reshaping the narrative of what it means to be a healthcare entrepreneur in the 21st century. 

Empowering Others through Mentorship: 

Recognizing the importance of mentorship, Annette and Leola pay it forward by guiding aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, through the intricacies of certification and infrastructure development. Their mentorship ethos underscores the belief that success is not merely attained but shared and nurtured. By empowering others to realize their entrepreneurial dreams, they are fostering a culture of collaboration and collective upliftment within their community and beyond. 

A Vision for the Future:

Annette and Leola envision a future where health is not merely a commodity but a collective responsibility. Their advocacy for preventive care, elder wellness, and community engagement reflects a vision of a healthier, more equitable society; one where access to quality healthcare is not determined by zip code or socioeconomic status. Through their tireless efforts, they are laying the groundwork for a legacy of health and wellness that transcends generations. 

A Call to Action: 

Annette and Leola’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of compassion, collaboration, and dedication to a cause greater than oneself. As we reflect on their story, let us heed their call to action, embracing the health advocates and champions of wellness in our own communities. Together, we can build a future where every individual can thrive and flourish, a future where health truly is wealth. 

In the ever-evolving saga of healthcare, Annette and Leola are driving the path towards a brighter, healthier future for all. To learn more about Annette & Leola, listen to Women in Motion, sponsored by WBEC-West using this link: https://businessradiox.com/podcast/women-in-motion/staywellleola/ 

About Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West (WBEC-West)  

WBEC-West is a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a coalition of corporations, WBEs, and regionally focused women’s business organizations. As an affiliate organization, WBEC-West implements the certification standards of WBENC throughout Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam. WBENC is the largest certifier of women’s business enterprises in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs. WBENC certification is nationally recognized and accepted by more than 10,000 major corporations. We also support corporations in their efforts to include WBENC Certified WBEs in their supply chain.