Breaking Barriers: Jessica Lee’s Journey from Deaf Immigrant to Successful Entrepreneur
Jessica Lee of Chicago UPS Store is a dynamic entrepreneur, business consultant, and community advocate based in Chicago, where she owns and operates two thriving UPS stores in the bustling Northside business district. Her entrepreneurial journey spans multiple industries, having owned and successfully managed various businesses, including nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. Throughout her career, she has become well-known for her inclusive business practices, including hiring individuals from disadvantaged and marginalized communities, such as the LGBTQ+ community and people seeking a second chance.
What makes Lee’s story even more inspiring is that she is a deaf, single mother of two children, navigating both the challenges of parenthood and the complexities of running successful businesses. She has managed to overcome significant barriers while cultivating a reputation as a determined, compassionate, and visionary leader.
Early Life and Background
Born in South Korea, She was raised in an environment that emphasized the importance of family and community. Her upbringing, shaped by her Korean heritage, instilled in her a sense of responsibility, discipline, and respect for tradition. These values continue to guide her approach to business, where she prioritizes both innovation and time-honored practices. As a first-generation immigrant, Lee’s journey to entrepreneurial success was driven by a desire to achieve financial independence and to create a better life for her family. She is the first in her family to pursue small-business ownership, and her story has been a source of inspiration to others in her community.
Education and Early Career
Lee’s academic path began at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), where she studied Biochemistry, Business Law, and Accounting. She later continued her education at DePaul University, solidifying her foundation in business and finance. Lee’s dedication to learning was further reflected in her pursuit of an MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology, an online institution that caters to high-level professionals. Her educational background also includes certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
In her early career, Jessica Lee worked as the CFO for several startups and non-profits, where she gained invaluable experience in financial management, strategic planning, and organizational development. This role helped hone her skills in business operations and equipped her with the knowledge necessary to pivot toward entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurial Journey
Lee’s entrepreneurial journey began in her late twenties when she ventured into the restaurant and nightlife industries. She owned and managed multiple nightclubs, bars, and restaurants, each one becoming a successful and profitable business. Despite facing the challenges of being a young, first-time business owner, Lee demonstrated a unique ability to turn struggling businesses into thriving establishments. Her business savvy and innovative approach allowed her to navigate the competitive restaurant and hospitality industries with ease.
What set Lee apart from other entrepreneurs was her commitment to fostering inclusive environments in her businesses. She made it a priority to hire individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who had been marginalized or faced challenges in securing employment elsewhere. This commitment to social responsibility became a defining characteristic of her leadership style.
Over the years, Lee transitioned to other business ventures, including owning UPS franchise stores, where she continued to implement her values of community and inclusion. Her expertise in business operations and leadership has also led her to become a sought-after business consultant, where she provides strategic advice to small- and medium-sized businesses throughout Northern Illinois. Lee’s consultancy work focuses on helping these businesses streamline operations, enhance profitability, and build robust and sustainable growth.
Community Advocacy and Leadership
Beyond her entrepreneurial success, she is a passionate advocate for her community. As a single mother, a business owner, and a leader in her community, Lee understands the challenges faced by underrepresented groups. She has used her platform to champion causes related to inclusion, diversity, and economic empowerment. Her efforts have made her a respected figure in Chicago’s business community, where she is known for her commitment to uplifting others.
One of Lee’s most notable contributions is her work with disadvantaged and marginalized populations. She consistently hires individuals from the LGBTQ+ community, those seeking second chances, and others who face barriers to employment. This approach not only helps these individuals rebuild their lives but also contributes to a more inclusive and equitable workforce in the local economy.
Personal Life
She is a dedicated mother to two children, and her journey as a single mother has further fueled her determination to succeed in both her personal and professional lives. Her children are her greatest motivators, and her story of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship serves as a powerful example of resilience and perseverance.
As a deaf woman, Lee has navigated additional challenges in both business and life. However, she has never allowed her disability to hinder her success. Her ability to communicate effectively, create meaningful relationships, and lead with empathy has made her a respected leader in both the business and the broader community.
Legacy and Impact
Jessica Lee’s legacy is one of perseverance, inclusivity, and empowerment. She has defied the odds to become a successful businesswoman, not just through hard work and innovation but also by staying true to her values of community and support for those who need it most. Through her businesses, her advocacy, and her consultancy work, Lee has made a lasting impact on the Northern Illinois business landscape and the lives of the people she employs and serves.
Portfolio: https://jessicaleechicago.com/
