From Secretary to CEO: Janice Howroyd: The Inspiring Journey of an African American Businesswoman

Janice Bryant Howroyd is an exceptional African American businesswoman who has accomplished a great deal in her career. She is a true inspiration for anyone who aspires to achieve success in their life. Despite the obstacles she faced as a black woman in America, she persevered and built a multi-billion-dollar empire.

Born in 1952, in North Carolina, Howroyd grew up in a large family of 11 children. Her father was a tobacco farmer, and her mother worked as a seamstress. Janice learned the value of hard work and perseverance from an early age. She attended North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where she earned her degree in English and Education.

After graduating, Howroyd moved to Los Angeles and began working as a secretary at a staffing company. She quickly rose through the ranks and became a top performer. However, she was determined to build something of her own, so she started her own staffing company, ACT-1 Group, with just $1,500 in her pocket in 1978.

ACT-1 Group grew quickly, and Howroyd’s leadership skills and hard work were critical to the company’s success. Over the years, she expanded the business and established a reputation for delivering high-quality staffing services. Today, ACT-1 Group is one of the largest privately-held staffing companies in the world, with more than 17,000 clients and over 2,000 employees.

Howroyd’s story is a remarkable one. She started with nothing and built a business that has transformed the staffing industry. Her success is not just about making money, but also about empowering others to achieve their own dreams. She has inspired many African Americans to seek wealth and to believe that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.

Howroyd’s commitment to giving back to her community is truly remarkable. She has established several scholarship programs to support young people in pursuing their dreams. She is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, which has helped to create a more equitable and just society.

In conclusion, Janice Bryant Howroyd is a true inspiration to us all. Her journey to success is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and perseverance. She has shown that anything is possible if you have the right attitude and are willing to put in the effort. Her story is proof that African Americans can achieve great success in business and that they can be a driving force for positive change in their communities.

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