Sponsored by Nationwide
At ESSENCE, we know that securing your future means different things to different people. Whether it’s launching a business, buying your first home, or investing in your education, the road to a stable and fulfilling life is deeply personal and incredibly powerful. That’s why we’ve partnered with Nationwide to bring you Secure Your Future, a storytelling campaign spotlighting real individuals making bold moves to build the lives they envision.
Shot in Atlanta, this campaign leans into authenticity with a social-first video series designed to spark inspiration and action. Through a “Man-on-the-Street” format, Secure Your Future brings three voices to the forefront, each sharing how they’re laying the groundwork for long-term success with purpose and passion.
Meet Jakima Miller: Wellness Advocate and Entrepreneur Jakima Miller is the founder of NBS Massage, a holistic wellness brand rooted in healing, education, and empowerment. With a background in teaching and a commitment to transforming how we approach self-care, Jakima’s vision was born from the desire to offer a complete body experience to her community. Through massage, nutrition, and bodywork, she’s educating others on the importance of listening to and honoring their bodies. Her future includes integrating technology and expanding outreach through churches and local organizations. Jakima is proof that when your body is your business, your choices shape your legacy.
Meet Veronique Caldwell: First-Time Homeowner and Family Builder
As Director of Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute in Atlanta, Veronique Caldwell is a leader in beauty and education. But her proudest title is mom. After years of renting, a moment with her daughter prompted her to make a big shift to owning a home where memories could be made and roots could grow. The process was rigorous, but Veronique’s determination paid off. Today, she owns a stunning five-bedroom home and plans to leverage it as an investment property on the way to her next dream home. For Veronique, securing the future is all about intention, stability, and creating generational value.
Meet Ashli Norris: Beauty Student and Future Educator Ashli Norris once believed school wasn’t for her until she found her calling in beauty education. With a decade of experience as a makeup artist and a licensed esthetician, Ashli is now pursuing her Master Cosmetology license and has her sights set on becoming an instructor. Her journey has been fueled by rediscovering her confidence and aligning her passion with her purpose. For Ashli, securing her future means stepping into a leadership role where she can uplift others and redefine what success looks like in the beauty and education industries.
Each story in Secure Your Future is a reminder that our dreams are valid, our paths are unique, and our futures are worth investing in. With Nationwide as a trusted partner, these voices show how meaningful progress is possible with the right support and resources.
Watch the full video above and learn more about securing your future at Nationwide.com/SecureYourFuture .