OnMilwaukee's The Future Is Female series is brought to you by Alverno College and features some of the most interesting, innovative and intelligent women in the city.
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For more than a decade, JohnRae’ Stowers has offered a boutique and community space for women in a cozy storefront at 4307 W. Vliet St. called JazzyRae' Jewels & Accessories.
"My shop offers a unique blend of fashion, community and empowerment," says Stowers. "JazzyRaé is a place where customers – known as DIVAS – can engage in open dialogue, network and form meaningful connections."
The boutique also hosts in-store events including pop-ups, book readings and "Dancing After Dark" events.
Stowers is also the organizer of the popular Divas Brunch that attracts around 500 women. The next brunch is set for Saturday, Aug. 31. Check out www.jazzyraejewels.com for more information.
"The brunch serves as a platform for women's empowerment, featuring inspiring speakers, performances, vendors and a fashion show while also providing scholarships to graduating seniors," says Stowers, who was born and raised in Milwaukee.
JazzyRaé Jewels & Accessories has received numerous awards, including Entrepreneur of the Year, Best Boutique of the Year and Trendsetter's 2023 - Most Supportive Woman of Empowerment.
"With a focus on girl power and statement accessories, JazzyRaé embodies the values of community engagement, support and sisterhood, making it a safe and welcoming space for all," says Stowers.
OnMilwaukee recently had the chance to chat with Stowers and ask her the eight questions that are routinely asked in the series.
1. What does active listening mean to you? Do you consider yourself a good listener, and if so, how has this helped you in your personal and professional relationships?
Active listening is being engaged and present when someone is speaking to me. It is listening first to understand and second, providing meaningful and respectful feedback without judgment. I consider myself a good listener. It shows up in my professional career as an educator where I serve as an Associate Director working with first-generation, low-income students. Being a good listener has allowed me an opportunity to connect and build relationships with my students. I have created a safe space for them to be vulnerable while knowing they are supported.
The same has happened in my personal life with my business. We have been given the nickname of “Women’s Sanctuary.” Women come to have a moment, a moment of peace to chat, vent, network or simply connect. They are heard, respected and offered sound advice. This has set us apart from other boutiques in the city and has played a role in the growth.
2. What was the last subject you were curious about and then pursued to learn more? How did you pursue it?
What a great question! I am big on relationships and connection. It makes sense because my undergraduate degree is in communication. I was very interested in the male/female dynamic. My co-worker was telling me about a book he was reading about silent agreements and unspoken expectations, and I just had to have it! I purchased the book right away and recommended it to followers in my JazzyRae’ group. I was intrigued by how implicit rules in relationships derive from unspoken beliefs and expectations at a young age. The book created many discussions amongst my friend groups, where we began to identify our silent agreements and how we thought they started. I am all about receiving new information, having great discussions and sharing.
3. If you can’t figure something out yourself, what source or person do you turn to first? How long do you wait before you ask for help? As a woman, do you think you wait longer to reach out?
If I can’t figure something out, I generally turn to Google. I’m the queen of pulling out my phone and fact-checking or doing a “how-to” search. If it’s a quick ask, I turn to my husband. He’s one of the smartest people I know – and he knows a lot of random facts. If I need to figure out something deeper, I go into prayer and turn to God. It may take silencing myself or even fasting, but I definitely turn to God and wait for direction. I don’t wait to ask for help because time is important. I have “get it done / get it figured out” energy.
4. What are your personal values? Who and/or what inspired them and how do these values affect your decision-making process?
My personal values are faith, family, health/fitness, fun, loyalty, structure, wealth and legacy.
I grew up in the church and had a mother who was a pastor. I learned early on about the power of God. My mother was very instrumental in helping me understand the importance of family, taking care of myself and enjoying life. She ensured that I always surrounded myself with good people: good friends and family who were loyal, cared about me and always had my best interest at heart.
Structure is another way of creating balance. Everything can be done, but decent and in order. Last, wealth puts me in a position to be a blessing to others, and if done correctly, I will be able to leave behind a legacy that continues. My values have allowed me to make good choices, solid and fulfilling choices that impact my future and the future of my children. Ultimately, when I make a decision, I feel peace about it.
5. Technology and on-line communication/meetings/social has definitely changed over the years. Do these things help or hinder your growth – or both?
I truly believe that using online platforms for communication has helped save time, travel and money, but still allow for connection. For me, technology has allowed me to do more. Unfortunately, I’m not the best at some of the fun social platforms like TikTok, but I believe one day I will be, so it’s an opportunity for growth.
6. Where is the furthest you’ve traveled and what is a thing or two you learned from the experience? And what surprised you?
The furthest I’ve traveled is Jamaica. Oh, how I love Jamaica! After spending time with the locals, I learned to appreciate all I have – large and small. I was so moved and inspired by the consistent smiles, the music, the food, the grind to provide for their families and simply the daily celebrations of their culture. What surprised me most was their educational system, laws and unfinished homes.
7. What are your favorite art forms? How do you challenge yourself to actively engage in the arts?
My favorite art form is dance – all genres. My daughters grew up dancing with Signature Dance Company. I make it a point to see at least one or two shows a year. I also support through volunteering or sharing show information with my network. So, if it's not one of their shows, I enjoy the offerings at the Marcus Performing Arts Center.
8. How do you/your work move Milwaukee forward?
At the core of who I am, I am a connector. My work brings people together by allowing them a safe space to network and connect. Creating and hosting an event like the Divas Brunch allows over 500 women to come together, connect, learn, be inspired and enjoy one another.
Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.
Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.
