VCWoman Achieve 2025 Mentee Spotlight – Jalisa Cole

Posted on January 29, 2025
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Name: Jalisa Cole | Business/Profession: Sports & Entertainment Sales Representative

Please share a little about your background, personally and/or professionally.

I was born and raised in Magnolia, Arkansas, and Little Rock, where I developed a strong foundation in teamwork, leadership, and resilience through basketball. My athletic journey began at Hall High School in Little Rock, where I contributed to a state championship team, and continued at Arkansas Baptist College and Prairie View A&M University. These experiences not only shaped my competitive spirit but also instilled in me the value of hard work and dedication.

Professionally, I serve as the Front Office General Manager for the Little Rock Lightning and the Director of Sponsorship for She Got Game League. In these roles, I oversee operations, build community partnerships, and develop strategies that drive organizational success. My work extends beyond sports, as I actively collaborate with local organizations to create opportunities that uplift underserved communities, particularly focusing on women and youth. Recently, I’ve been pursuing financial literacy initiatives, working to empower others with the tools to achieve economic independence.

Combining my experiences in sports, education, and community engagement, I am striving to inspire and lead on a larger scale. My ultimate goal is to become the next NBA or WNBA commissioner, driving innovation and equity in professional sports while continuing to create meaningful change in communities worldwide.

Please share about your business, where it’s located, and what led you to starting it.

My work involves collaborating with various sports organizations, including the Little Rock Lightning and She Got Game League, where I focus on back-office operations such as sponsorship development, strategic planning, and community engagement. Based in Little Rock, Arkansas, I also have experience working in Charlotte, North Carolina, Atlanta, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida. In these cities, I networked with NFL, NBA, and NBL teams, and worked closely with the TBL in Jacksonville. My experience in the TBL has deepened my understanding of team operations and league dynamics. I started this journey to address gaps in representation and create opportunities, particularly for women in sports. My self-directed approach allows me to work across multiple organizations, ensuring I can make a meaningful impact both locally and beyond.

What goals do you hope to achieve for your business during your time in VCWoman Achieve?

During my time in VCWoman Achieve, I aim to enhance my business’s strategic growth and expand my network within the sports industry. Specifically, I want to refine my leadership and financial management skills to better support the organizations I work with. Additionally, I hope to develop a stronger framework for scaling my work, allowing me to create more impactful opportunities for athletes and underserved communities. Ultimately, I aim to leverage the insights and connections gained to drive long-term, sustainable growth for my business and the sports organizations I support.

What drew you to being part of a mentorship group specifically curated for non-men? How has being a woman or non-binary individual impacted your journey as an entrepreneur?

Being part of a mentorship group specifically curated for non-men appeals to me because it provides a unique opportunity to connect with others who understand the specific challenges we face in industries where women are often underrepresented. The mentorship offers a supportive space to share experiences, build confidence, and gain insights from those who have navigated similar paths.

As a woman in sports and business, I’ve often had to overcome barriers of perception and opportunity. However, these challenges have only strengthened my resolve to create space for other women and underrepresented groups in the sports world. Being a woman has motivated me to break boundaries and advocate for equality, ensuring that women’s voices are heard and valued in spaces that were historically dominated by men.

What are three things you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through basketball, both playing and mentoring others, as it keeps me connected to my passion for sports. I also love engaging in community outreach, volunteering with local organizations to make a positive impact. Additionally, I’m passionate about personal development, spending time learning new skills like financial literacy and exploring ways to grow both personally and professional.

What is your favorite part about being an entrepreneur?

My favorite part about being an entrepreneur is the freedom it gives me to pursue my passions and create the life I want. I have the flexibility to explore new opportunities, take creative risks, and build something meaningful from the ground up. This freedom allows me to work on projects that align with my values, such as empowering others, fostering community growth, and breaking barriers in sports. Being an entrepreneur means I can shape my own path, continuously evolve, and leave a lasting impact in every area I’m passionate about.