Jenero Mitchell has been continuing the legacy his father started – keeping Easy Mail Management a staple in the Black community. He spoke to African-American News&Issues about what it’s like to compete against the corporate mailing services and how to keep his customer base coming back.
AANI: How did you get your start in the mailing industry?
Mitchell: I got my start in the mailing industry by working alongside my dad. My dad founded the company back in 1990 and ever since he started the company, I’ve been by his side working and he showed me the ropes. He passed away five years ago, and I’ve taken over since his death.
AANI: When I was reading up on the company, I saw a review of a customer that had been using your services for 20 years. As a smaller mailing service, would you say you provide a more intimate experience with customers? What is it about EZ Mail Management that produces loyal, lifelong customers?
Mitchell: One reason is, we make sure we listen to our customer’s needs. We make sure we do the job right, on time, the first time, no hassle, so they can always feel comfortable coming back to us and normally that’s how we receive our referrals.
AANI: What are some of the obstacles you face as a smaller Black-owned business when competing with bigger and more well-known mail services?
Mitchell: As a small business owner, I realize that a lot of people like to go to corporate mailing services because they have the experience and the knowledge… with myself, I go out and I market myself and let people know that even though I’m a small business owner, I could still give them competitive prices and also give them the best type of service that they need.
AANI: What were some of the obstacles, if any, that your business faced during the pandemic? Was there any growth? Decline?
Mitchell: Actually, what I saw was, some of my clients were no longer with me during the pandemic… I also received a lot more clients during the pandemic, and so it evened out where I was able to stay in business and never had to close my doors.
AANI: How do you think the Black community can better support smaller Black-owned businesses like yours?
Mitchell: We have to stick together, and we have to trust one another as well and understand that if we work together, we could accomplish a lot of great things in putting our money back into Black industries.
AANI: Reading about the company, I saw that your father founded EZ Mail Management with the intention of building a legacy and being a successful businessman. What is your advice to new Black-owned business owners who are also looking to be successful and build legacies?
Mitchell: One of the things I always say is “you can’t be successful making excuses.” So with that being said, stick with the vision, don’t give up, keep the faith, and know that sometimes it’s going to get hard, but always understand that you can overcome those if you just stay in it and stay with your plan.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
