Today we’d like to introduce you to Edna Jean-Mary
Hi Edna, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey has been a beautiful mix of growth, resilience, and faith. I graduated from the University of North Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health, originally planning to become a pediatrician. After taking the MCAT multiple times and not achieving the results I hoped for, I had to reevaluate my path. While it was difficult to shift my dreams, I trusted that God had a greater plan for me. One of my favorite Bible verses, Jeremiah 29:11, reminds me that His plans are to prosper and not harm me, to give me hope and a future. That promise has guided every decision I’ve made.
During this transition, I explored different opportunities across the healthcare field. I’ve gained experience in clinical research, medical scheduling, and patient care, earning certifications in phlebotomy, nutrition, and emergency management. At the same time, I discovered a passion for entrepreneurship. I launched Elite Braiding Lounge, a business where I offer braiding services and promote confidence through beauty. I also found joy in content creation, sharing moments from my everyday lifestyle like doing my hair and makeup, going window shopping, trying out new restaurants, and spending time with friends and family. Beyond that, I’m exploring ways to create generational wealth.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but each challenge has shaped me into the woman I am today. Growing up with Haitian immigrant parents showed me what hard work truly looks like and instilled in me the importance of never giving up on my dreams despite trials and tribulations. Seeing my parents work so hard to give my brothers and I the life they always dreamed of makes me push myself ten times harder to achieve my goals in life. Failing the MCAT multiple times was a tough pill to swallow. It forced me to confront feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty about my future. A major challenge has also been finding a career that truly aligns with my interests and passions after having one specific path (becoming a pediatrician) set in my mind for so many years. It’s been a journey of self-discovery, trying new things, and learning to be okay with change while trusting God’s timing and direction.
Another struggle has been navigating the world of entrepreneurship as a young Black woman. Building a brand from the ground up requires resilience, determination, and constant learning. There were moments of doubt, but through it all, my faith kept me grounded. I leaned heavily on prayer, family, and friends who supported me and reminded me of my purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I wear many hats, and each one brings me joy. As the owner of Elite Braiding Lounge, I specialize in protective styles that enhance beauty and confidence. My goal is to create a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
I’m also a content creator, using platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Lemon8 to share lifestyle content, beauty tips, and entrepreneurial insights. Through my content, I aim to inspire others to embrace their authentic selves and pursue their dreams.
In addition, I currently work as a Patient Scheduler Coordinator, which allows me to stay connected to my passion for healthcare. I enjoy being a part of the patient care process and making sure people receive the services they need. While my original dream was to become a pediatrician, I’ve since opened my heart to other fulfilling roles within the healthcare field. I’m actively exploring career paths like clinical research, healthcare technology, or health administration that align with both my skills and interests. My goal is to eventually step into a high-impact role that offers financial stability, growth opportunities, and the ability to make a difference in people’s lives—all while honoring my passion for service and wellness.
What sets me apart is my heart for people and my commitment to giving God glory in all I do. I believe success isn’t just about financial gains but about the impact we make in other peoples lives. I strive to be a light, using my story to uplift and encourage others who may feel stuck or uncertain about their future.
What does success mean to you?
To me, success is living in alignment with God’s purpose for my life. It’s about waking up each day with a sense of fulfillment, knowing I’m making a difference in the lives of others. Success is found in the moments of growth, resilience, and unwavering faith.
It’s also about having the freedom to pursue my passions while creating opportunities for others. I’ve learned that sometimes people are ashamed to highlight their downfalls, even though those moments are often what lead to breakthrough and growth. A downfall is not always an embarrassment—it can be a minor setback meant to open your eyes to something bigger. Think about a baby who falls plenty of times before they can actually walk. The same thing goes with life. A setback doesn’t mean denial—it might just mean you need to take a different path. Whether it’s through my braiding business, content creation, or my career in healthcare, I want to empower others to believe in their dreams and know that God’s plan is always greater than their fears. As Jeremiah 29:11 says, His plans are to give us hope and a future, and that’s the ultimate success in my eyes.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ednajeanofficial?igsh=czQ5Z3ExdHFic2po&utm_source=qr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edna-jean-mary-4b6aa2259?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ednajeanofficial?si=HreMtwwCGqwos6_-
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@xomisha?_t=ZP-8uy5CrS0JTj&_r=1
