WORDS THAT LEAD: A celebration of Black women’s leadership and legacy in Jackson
JANS – The Dinsmor Clubhouse in Ridgeland transformed into a powerful hub of inspiration, strategy, and sisterhood on April 15, 2026, as Women for Progress of Mississippi, Inc. hosted the highly anticipated “Words That Lead” event. Celebrating 48 years of advocacy, awareness, and action, the organization brought nationally recognized thought leaders directly to the local community for an evening dedicated to the advancement of Black women in corporate America and beyond.
The landmark event was anchored by the insights of The Next Little Black Book of Success, a newly updated edition of the 2009 classic leadership guide. Co-authors Elaine Meryl Brown and Rhonda Joy McLean – both powerhouse executives with decades of experience at the highest levels of media and law – took the stage to share their transitions from high-powered corporate roles to becoming entrepreneurs, authors, and community leaders.
Moderated expertly by Dr. LeMia Jenkins, President of Brownkey Consulting Group, the panel provided a masterclass in navigating the complexities of today’s professional landscape. The conversation was further enriched by local leaders, including Dr. Theresa Horne, Vice President of Community & Business Development at JP Morgan Chase, and Dr. Tonja Murphy, a celebrated writer and educator who set the stage for the evening’s dialogue.
“This is more than a conversation; it’s an investment in growth,” stated Willie Jones, President of Women for Progress of Mississippi. The sentiment rang true as panelists tackled critical, real-world challenges facing Black women today. Candid discussions covered a range of vital topics, from managing unconscious bias and microaggressions to the nuances of returning to the office post-remote work. Perhaps most importantly, the panel emphasized self-care not merely as a personal luxury, but as a fundamental leadership strategy.
A deeply moving segment of the evening was dedicated to the life and legacy of the book’s third co-author, Marsha Haygood, who passed away earlier in 2026. Though she was not present in the room, her spirit and profound wisdom were felt by all in attendance through a special memoriam video. The tribute beautifully captured Haygood’s journey, her expansive knowledge of talent development, and her unwavering commitment to helping others find their voice. Her invaluable contributions to the book and to the advancement of women continue to serve as a guiding light for future generations of professionals.
This event, supported by partners such as the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. (Central Mississippi Chapter) and the Metro Jackson Black Women Lawyers Association, served as a powerful catalyst for empowerment.
Attendees walked away not just with answers, but with a renewed sense of purpose, actionable tools, and a stronger network of mentors and peers. The Next Little Black Book of Success serves as “mentors in your pocket,” providing a strategic framework for women at every stage of their careers – from college students and entry-level employees to global leaders.
For more information about the book and future initiatives, visit WordsThatLead.co or womenforprogress.net.
