How Danielle & Kyle Jones Are Helping to Promote Sustainability and Climate Justice

An Interview With Monica Sanders

Stay Adaptable and Resilient to the challenges and the slow speed in which we would see an impact.

According to the University of Colorado, “Those who are most affected and have the fewest resources to adapt to climate change are also the least responsible for the greenhouse gas emissions — both globally and within the United States.” Promoting climate justice is an incredibly important environmental responsibility that is slowly becoming more and more recognized. In this interview series, we are talking to leaders who are helping to promote sustainability and climate justice. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Danielle & Kyle Jones.

Danielle Jones is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in management, leadership, government contracting, and strategic planning. She is the visionary behind Exemplary Support Services (ESS Group Inc), an esteemed International Training and Development Company catering to corporate, non-profit, education, and government clients. She has successfully executed diverse projects, including multi-million-dollar government contracts on a national and international scale. Notably, she currently oversees projects with prestigious institutions like The Urban League of Greater Atlanta, Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, NC, as well as international contracts in Dakar, Senegal.

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?

I grew up in a middle-class suburbia in Newark, Delaware, with both my parents, my older brother, and my older sister. It was a simple life; However, we did grow up under strict rules and discipline. In school, I achieved academic success, as I consistently maintained honor roll status from elementary to high school. I had a few bad semesters over the years where I would get a couple of c’s, and in high school I received a D in one of my math classes. However, for the most part I would get an honor roll.

Throughout my childhood, I spent most of my time with my sister, playing with dolls and nurturing a passion for writing poetry and books as a hobby. We frequently visited our grandparents and in Yeadon, Pennsylvania, creating cherished family memories.

Despite the contentment at home, I always yearned to explore beyond the confines of Delaware and learn about diverse cultures. My restricted social activities and early curfew left me feeling restless, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to break free from the monotony of my routine, which largely revolved around school, home, and family events.

My mother signed us up for Girl Scouts of America to assist in getting us involved with social activities that did not just revolve around family. Though sports were an early interest of mine, I didn’t delve into organized athletics until my freshman year at Christiana High School when I began to run track. This decision proved transformative, as I discovered my natural talent and passion for the sport. Gradually, I rose to the top of my game, becoming the number one runner in the state and consistently ranking in the top five in the nation in the 55-meter dash and 60m dash during my Junior and Senior years. My achievements garnered numerous accolades and awards, including the prestigious Gatorade Athlete of the Year recognition for the State of Delaware and a place in the Delaware Track and Field Hall of Fame. I earned a full athletic scholarship to Seton Hall University where I spent my Freshmen and Sophomore year. As a Freshman, I was the lead leg for the 4×400 that won Big East Conference Championship and All-American at the 2002 NCAA Division I National Championship. I transferred to the University of Miami, where I was a member of the UM record holding DMR (That record has since been broken)

Everyone has a cataclysmic moment or marker in their life which propels them to take certain actions, a “why”. What is your why?

I believe that deep within, most individuals yearn to discover a purpose that transcends their own existence. They seek to leave their mark on the world, a legacy that will be remembered long after they are gone. I am definitely one of those individuals. Personally, I have always felt a strong desire to connect with people on a profound level, aspiring to be remembered for the positive impact I’ve had on those whose I’ve met. The yearning to connect with people could be a result of how I grew up. Although I had a desire to, I didn’t always know how to connect with people well to create meaningful relationships on a personal level. However, through my accolades and the “simple” middle class life I lived growing up I noticed peers often glorified my life and aspired to reach higher levels from where they came from and achieve success of their own. They would say I made it look simple and effortless. Indirectly I was making an impact even though I didn’t know how to connect directly with my peers. But I began to discover my “Why” closer to my mid-thirties. I knew through interactions with others that I had a unique ability to dissect major issues and create tangible solutions. I often became the go to person to solve problems. When I think of my “why” about the plethora of major issues in this world that need to be solved and I have a passion and desire to utilize my skillsets to solve them or to be an intricate part in the solution. That is why ESS is taking a strong stance and focusing on climate justice and sustainability.

You are currently leading an organization that is making a difference for our planet. Can you tell us a bit about what you and your organization are trying to change?

Since our inception, our primary goal has been to revolutionize the landscape of leadership training and workforce development. We are dedicated to crafting highly effective methods that not only attract and retain talent but also ensure the seamless implementation of sustainable practices, thus making a tangible impact on sustainability. We have successfully developed and implemented programs that focus on the key issues in organizations that included, but are not limited to developing effective communication, building emotional intelligence, enhancing decisions, cultivating strategic thinking, developing adaptability and change management, fostering collaboration and team building, nurturing coaching and mentoring skills, promoting ethical and responsible leadership, continual learning and self-development, and succession planning and talent development. These play crucial roles in changing the current landscape of sustainability for energy in Africa and driving innovative approaches to lead organizations to success. We strive to enhance the landscape of:

1. Empowerment through leadership training by equipping leaders and individuals with the skills, vision, and mindset needed to drive sustainability initiatives effectively. This will allow them to make informed decisions and inspire their teams and communities towards more environmentally friendly and effective approaches. Effective leaders can navigate challenges, mobilize resources, and foster collaboration among stakeholders, which is essential for sustainable energy projects in Africa.
2. Building a skilled workforce so there will be a pool of skilled individuals with expertise in renewable energy, sustainable technologies, and innovative solutions. By investing in education and training programs, organizations can create a talented workforce capable of implementing and maintaining sustainable energy projects. This, in turn, increases the success rate of such initiatives and fosters a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability.
3. Proper program management is essential to execute sustainability projects efficiently and within budget. It involves strategic planning, resource allocation, risk management, and evaluation of outcomes. Effective program management ensures that sustainable energy initiatives are well-organized, milestones are met, and any challenges are addressed promptly. This, in turn, boosts the credibility of the projects and attracts more support from investors and partners.
4. Promoting innovative approaches to encourage a culture of innovation within organizations. By fostering creativity and embracing new ideas, businesses can explore cutting-edge technologies and practices in the sustainable energy sector. This could lead to the development of cost-effective, scalable, and environmentally friendly solutions that can have a significant impact on energy access and conservation in Africa.
5. Leadership training and program management to help establish and strengthen collaborative networks among various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector entities, NGOs, and local communities. Organizations can share knowledge, pool resources, and address challenges collectively. Collaborative efforts are particularly crucial in the context of sustainability, where multiple perspectives and expertise are needed to achieve lasting impact.
6. Promoting Long-term Vision through leadership training can instill a sense of long-term vision and dedication to sustainability goals in leaders. Organizations can prioritize environmentally friendly practices, even if they might not yield immediate profits, knowing that they align with a broader vision of creating a sustainable future for Africa.

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?

I would say the most interesting story would be how we began to do business in Africa. It started from the app, “Clubhouse”, where I was in a room speaking with a colleague and he talked about his experience in Senegal. He then went on to talk about a trade mission that was coming up and businesses over there were interested in minority owned businesses. He mentioned where to go and find the information. Intrigued and inspired, I immediately started doing my research and taking the necessary steps to go to the trade mission in Senegal. I spoke it over with my partner, and my mind was made up…we are going to do business in Africa. The experience was breathtaking, and I found myself grappling with the profound realization that I stood on the very soil of our ancestors, the Motherland. It was a spiritual connection like no other and I knew that is where I wanted to stay and grow my business. While visiting Senegal, we had the pleasure of meeting some incredible individuals. Our connection with them has flourished, and we continue to collaborate and do business together to this day. This endeavor has been a transformative voyage, both professionally and personally, solidifying our commitment to contribute to the growth and prosperity on the continent of Africa.

None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?

Throughout my journey, I have been incredibly fortunate to have received invaluable guidance and unwavering support from remarkable mentors. I am deeply grateful to acknowledge one of these exceptional individuals, Renzie Richardson, founder, and owner of BHFL Group. Renzie played a pivotal role in my professional development by imparting her expertise in crafting government contract proposals and providing me with a profound understanding of the industry. Her mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my path to success.

In addition to Renzie’s impactful mentorship, my mother has been an unwavering pillar of support throughout this journey. Her constant availability to lend a listening ear, her unwavering encouragement, and the insightful advice she offers have been nothing short of invaluable. She has been a source of strength and motivation during challenging times and reminded me never to lose sight of my dreams.

Moreover, my husband and esteemed business partner, Kyle Jones, has been an indispensable asset to the company. His dedication to managing and developing our business and his impeccable organizational skills have ensured that our company’s processes remain seamless and efficient. His unwavering commitment to our shared vision has been a driving force behind our achievements, and I am grateful for the insights he provides consistently.

Together, these mentors and support systems have played a transformative role in shaping my journey, propelling me forward with their wisdom, encouragement, and expertise. Their belief in my potential has helped me both personally and professionally.

Thank you for that. Let’s now move to the central part of our discussion. Let’s start with a basic definition of terms so that everyone is on the same page. What does climate justice mean to you? How do we operationalize it?

Climate justice, to me, means recognizing and addressing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities and ensuring that the burden of mitigating and adapting to climate change is shared fairly and equitably among all people, irrespective of their socio-economic background, race, or geographic location.

Operationalizing climate justice requires a holistic approach that addresses both the environmental and social aspects of climate change. By integrating climate justice principles into policies, practices, and actions, we can work towards a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

Science is telling us that we have 7–10 years to make critical decisions about climate change. What are three things you or your organization are doing to help?

We are collaborating with some of the most influential people in Africa to assist in making an impact toward ending energy poverty. This issue is directly connected to climate change, as a lack of modern energy access leads to reliance on fossil fuels and traditional energy sources, which contribute to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and environmental degradation. Here’s how we’re actively addressing these challenges:

1. Promoting Sustainable Energy Transition:

• Strategic Partnerships: Working with key influencers to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources.
• Leadership Training in Renewables: Equipping leaders to drive the shift from fossil fuels to renewables.
• Environmental Stewardship Programs: Encouraging sustainable practices to mitigate climate change effects.

2. Catalyzing Urgent Workforce Development and Inclusion:

• Skill Development: Upskilling workers for immediate demands in sustainable energy sectors.
• Inclusion Initiatives: Fostering a diverse, dynamic workforce, including women and youth.
• Clean Energy Practices Training: Teaching clean energy solutions to reduce indoor pollution and health risks.

3. Building a Collaborative Roadmap for Africa:

• Industry Collaboration Workshops: Facilitating dialogues to synergize efforts across sectors.
• Strategic Alignment with SDGs: Aligning goals with global sustainability targets.
• Resilience Building Programs: Crafting resilient strategies to ensure energy sustainability by 2030.

Our initiatives, combined with strong partnerships, are focused on the dual goal of alleviating energy poverty and mitigating climate change. By fostering leadership, enhancing skills, and driving collaboration, we’re taking essential strides toward a sustainable energy future for Africa.

Are there three things the community, society, or politicians can do to help you in your mission?

Ending energy poverty in Africa and addressing climate change and sustainability requires collaborative efforts from various stakeholders, including the community, society at large, and politicians. Here’s how each group can contribute:

1. Community:

• Awareness and Education: Local communities play a crucial role in raising awareness about energy poverty, climate change, and sustainable practices. Educating community members about the benefits of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly practices will help them understand the importance of transitioning to sustainable energy solutions.
• Adopting Sustainable Practices: Communities can actively adopt sustainable practices, such as promoting energy conservation, using clean cooking technologies, and supporting local renewable energy initiatives. By making small changes in daily habits, individuals can collectively make a significant impact on reducing energy poverty and combating climate change.
• Participation in Renewable Energy Projects: Engaging in community-driven renewable energy projects can empower local residents, create jobs, and improve energy access. Supporting and participating in community solar or wind farms, for example, can foster a sense of ownership and contribute to sustainable energy generation.

2. Society:

• Consumer Choices: As consumers, society has the power to drive demand for sustainable products and services. Supporting companies and businesses that prioritize sustainability and environmentally responsible practices can incentivize industries to transition to greener alternatives.
• Advocacy and Support: Civil society organizations, NGOs, and advocacy groups can play a crucial role in advocating for policies that promote renewable energy, sustainable development, and climate action. By amplifying the voices of communities and underserved populations, they can influence decision-makers and drive systemic change.
• Sustainable Lifestyle: Encouraging and adopting sustainable lifestyles, such as reducing waste, using public transportation, and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, can collectively contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.

3. Politicians and Policymakers:

• Policy Formulation: Policymakers have a significant role in shaping the legal and regulatory landscape related to energy, climate, and sustainability. They can develop policies that incentivize the adoption of renewable energy, promote energy efficiency, and support sustainable development projects.
• Investment in Infrastructure: Politicians can allocate funds and resources to invest in renewable energy infrastructure and sustainable projects. This may include building solar and wind farms, improving energy transmission networks, and supporting research and development in clean energy technologies.
• International Cooperation: Climate change and energy poverty are global challenges that require international cooperation. Policymakers can engage in international forums, agreements, and partnerships to address these issues collectively and collaborate with other nations on climate action and sustainable development goals.
• Supporting Climate Resilience: Policymakers can work on initiatives that enhance climate resilience in vulnerable communities, ensuring that they are better equipped to cope with the impacts of climate change.

Overall, ending energy poverty, addressing climate change, and promoting sustainability require a multi-faceted approach involving the active participation and collaboration of the community, society, and politicians. By working together and aligning efforts towards common goals, it is possible to create a sustainable future for Africa and the world.

How would you articulate how a business can become more profitable by being more sustainable and more environmentally conscious? Can you share a story or example?

Becoming more sustainable and environmentally conscious can lead to increased profitability for businesses in several ways. Consumers, investors, and regulators are increasingly favoring environmentally responsible companies, and sustainable practices can result in cost savings, improved brand reputation, and access to new markets. A business can boost profitability by cost savings through energy efficiency, waste reduction and recycling, enhanced brand reputation and customer loyalty, access to green markets and green certifications, improved employee engagement and productivity, risk mitigation and resilience, access to investment and funding opportunities, innovation and market leadership, regulatory compliance, and long-term business viability.

Overall, embracing sustainability and environmental consciousness can create a positive feedback loop, driving increased profitability through reduced costs, enhanced brand reputation, access to new markets, and improved operational efficiency. It’s a win-win scenario for both the business and the environment.

This is the signature question we ask in most of our interviews. What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started promoting sustainability and climate justice” and why?

1. Understanding how to advocate for Policy Change.
2. Stay Adaptable and Resilient to the challenges and the slow speed in which we would see an impact.
3. Addressing Social Equity is Vital.
4. How to communicate with multiple cultures to ensure the message is received to see an impact.
5. Collaborating with the right people to avoid roadblocks and achieve goals faster.

Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂

I hold Michelle Obama in high regard and meeting her for a private breakfast or lunch would be a profound honor. As an African American woman, she has truly epitomized what it means to be a supportive wife, a loving yet strong mother, all while retaining her own individuality and resilience. Her ability to effortlessly embody multiple roles, while also being the first lady of the United States, is a testament to her grace and determination.

Navigating the highest echelons of American politics with such poise and dignity must have demanded an immense amount of mental and emotional strength. I can only imagine the challenges she faced and the resilience she demonstrated throughout her journey. To this day, she continues to inspire and uplift others through her evolution, mentorship, and role-modeling. Her influence extends far beyond young girls; she serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for women of all ages, reminding us to pursue our dreams and trust in our ability to achieve greatness.

Meeting Michelle Obama would be an extraordinary opportunity to learn from a woman who has not only broken barriers but has done so with grace, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Her life story and accomplishments have left an indelible mark on society, and I would be honored to have the chance to engage with her and glean from her wisdom and experiences.

How can our readers continue to follow your work online?

You can connect with me online through various platforms:

1. Visit our website at www.essgroupinc.net and schedule a meeting.
2. Reach out to me on Instagram via @essgroupinc.
3. Follow me on Twitter at @daniellen_jones.
4. Connect with me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/essgroupinc/.

This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!

About the Interviewer: Monica Sanders JD, LL.M, is the founder of “The Undivide Project”, an organization dedicated to creating climate resilience in underserved communities using good tech and the power of the Internet. She holds faculty roles at the Georgetown University Law Center and the Tulane University Disaster Resilience Leadership Academy. Professor Sanders also serves on several UN agency working groups. As an attorney, Monica has held senior roles in all three branches of government, private industry, and nonprofits. In her previous life, she was a journalist for seven years and the recipient of several awards, including an Emmy. Now the New Orleans native spends her time in solidarity with and championing change for those on the frontlines of climate change and digital divestment. Learn more about how to join her at: www.theundivideproject.org

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How Danielle & Kyle Jones Are Helping to Promote Sustainability and Climate Justice was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.