Major Takeaways

• Impact compounds over time Vanessa’s decades of consistency turned skill into influence and influence into legacy.

• Purpose doesn’t expire with age after 50, she expands her reach instead of slowing down.

• Real leadership serves others first her businesses, ministry, and community work all center on people.

A Life of Faith, Service, and Business That Continues to Expand Across Generations

Urban City Podcast Presents: Women’s History Month By Felicia Brookins• 5 min read

The Blueprint of Purpose, Power, and Generational Impact

In the historic soil of Natchez, Mississippi, greatness often begins with roots.
For Mrs. Vanessa Edmond, those roots have grown into a life defined by
service, entrepreneurship, faith, and legacy-building. Born and raised in Natchez
and now firmly planted in purpose, Vanessa Edmond embodies what it means
to become more with time , not less. Married to her husband, Mr. Tony
Edmond, a Canton, Mississippi native, for 25 years and counting, she describes
herself as his “co-pilot.” But make no mistake, she is a pilot in her own right.
Together, they have built businesses, served communities, and raised three
accomplished daughters who reflect the fruit of intentional motherhood. Dr.
Deaja McLain thrives in corporate America. Brooklyne, an Alcorn State
University agriculture business graduate, stands as a testament to educational
excellence. Allyson is carving her own path as a college freshman at Hinds Community College.
Vanessa’s pride is unmistakable:
“I thank GOD for my girls.”
Her journey into entrepreneurship began not in a boardroom, but in a dorm room.
A proud alumna of Hinds AHS in Utica, Mississippi, Vanessa matriculated to Hinds Community
College, earning dual Associate degrees in Criminal Justice and Early Childhood Education. While
studying Criminal Law, she discovered what had quietly been part of her since childhood, a natural
gift and love for styling hair.
As a dorm stylist at Hinds, she earned income and built clientele, but more importantly, she built
confidence. That passion led her to Jackson Academy of Beauty, where she completed her
cosmetology training and rose to the distinguished title of Master Stylist. For 30 years, Vanessa
Edmond has been more than a stylist. She has been counselor. Therapist. Encourager.
Women have found more than beauty in her chair, they have found healing, affirmation, and truth.

Her reinvention after 50 is not about abandoning what she built; it is about expanding it.
As a passionate community advocate, she has led health fairs for barbers and stylists for the past
eight years, ensuring wellness within an industry that often pours into others without pause. She has
honored beauty legends, recognizing those who paved the way before her.
Her impact stretches far beyond the salon.
As co-owner of School Creation & Installation for 23 years, she and her husband have worked
closely within school systems, driven by a firm belief that “the youth are indeed our future.”
Whether mentoring, installing, or advocating, Vanessa sees every opportunity as a chance to shape
tomorrow’s leaders. She is also co-owner of Edmond Tours, creating experiences that connect
families through travel and adventure. From classrooms to churches to community networks, her
leadership is consistent.
A proud member of New Horizon Church International, she and her husband were honored in
2023 with the Community Service Award. As Chair of the Business Builders Network, she continues
to empower entrepreneurs within her faith community. Her accolades extend to the National
Coalition of 100 Black Women – Central Mississippi Chapter, where she was named Member of the
Year in 2019 and served in multiple leadership capacities. Women for Progress named her Beauty
Professional of the Month and later honored her 2025 Business of the Month, highlighting the I Be
Dog Gone Foodtruck , another testament to her entrepreneurial range. In 2025, Sandra Howard &
Company recognized her at Black Girls Rock, affirming what her community has long known:
Vanessa Edmond builds, uplifts, and multiplies impact. After 50, her strength is anchored not only in
experience, but in scripture. Philippians 4:13 guides her daily walk:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Her becoming is faith-centered. Her leadership is community-driven. Her legacy is generational.
For Vanessa Edmond, turning 50 was not a slowing down , it was a stepping into deeper authority.
She continues to stand strong, lead boldly, and serve intentionally, proving that the most powerful
chapters are often written after decades of foundation. In this Executive Series spotlight, she
reminds us:
Becoming after 50 is not about reinvention for relevance.
It is about expansion for impact.
And her impact continues to grow.
Urban City Podcast and Inspired Resources, LLC proudly recognizes Mrs. Vanessa Edmond as a true Architect of
Impact, an executive leader whose influence strengthens institutions, mobilizes communities, and builds generational
legacy. In honoring her, we celebrate not only her achievements, but the enduring power of leadership rooted in purpose,
faith, and unwavering commitment to progress.