Meet Jill Hart.

Jill is a marketing executive with more than 22 years of experience in her field. Her career has spanned various industries, including hospitality, publishing, automotive, government, and insurance. A perpetual learner, Jill strives to keep finding ways to grow and evolve alongside our ever-changing world. She earned her MBA in 2017 and continues to hone her skills through various educational opportunities. She is the proud mom of three kids and one fur baby. Jill enjoys reading, meditating, walking in nature, and listening to podcasts in her spare time.

YWCA Asks: What does an empowering woman mean to you?

Jill: An empowering woman is simply someone who wants to invest in others. We all have our own unique journeys full of learning experiences. When you take those learning moments, allow yourself to improve from them, and then use that knowledge to help others, it’s so fulfilling. If you want to simplify it: look for ways you can help, and when you see an opportunity, jump on it.

YWCA Asks:  In what ways do you believe you empower other women?

Jill:  One way I hope to empower is by example. Finding and using your voice as a woman can be challenging. I worked to get there—it did not come naturally. But now I recognize the importance of doing so. When someone says, “I was watching you, and it inspired me…” it’s the greatest compliment I could receive. Particularly when it’s from my daughter!

YWCA Asks: Can you share a tidbit of information or an experience that may be helpful to other women?

Jill:  As a professional, I’ve been given a myriad of bad advice in my career: I couldn’t work and be a mom; I needed to act as though I was entry level even with years of experience under my belt; I shouldn’t expand my knowledge scope. When someone in power tells you something, it’s hard not to own it. But that’s a mistake I’ve made too often. So, my best advice to anyone I mentor is to never let someone tell you that you can’t do something. Of course you can. Put your mind to it and go!