In a world full of entrepreneurs, few stories are as inspiring as Anastasia Jackson’s. Jackson, a 2021 graduate of Howard University, is a dynamic innovator. As the founder of WENITE, she is on a mission to revolutionize Historically Black Colleges and Universities with cutting-edge SMART technology, reshaping the way these institutions operate and serve their communities.
Jackson’s Journey of Innovation
Anastasia’s entrepreneurial journey took flight in 2019 while she studied sports medicine at Howard University. She took the obstacles she faced as a first-generation student and transformed them into stepping stones toward her passion for innovation. “What really drove me was the realization that HBCUs were facing infrastructure challenges, and that’s how WENITE was born,” she explains. This drive led to the development of SMART campuses, a niche in which WENITE stands alone, dedicated to addressing the unique needs of HBCUs.
Navigating the tech landscape as a young Black woman has not been without its hurdles. Jackson faced skepticism and had to work tirelessly to secure funding for her vision. Yet, support from her HBCU community never wavered. “The support from my HBCU community has been invaluable, and each obstacle has made WENITE stronger and more resilient,” she reflects.
The Mission of WENITE
WENITE is more than just a tech company. It is a solution-oriented organization committed to building SMART campuses for HBCUs by integrating AI and blockchain technology into everyday operations. From streamlining scheduling to enhancing cybersecurity, WENITE aims to solve real-world challenges that universities face. “We’re proud of the impact we’ve made and how deeply rooted we are in research and innovation,” Jackson states. Its commitment to understanding HBCUs’ distinctive needs sets WENITE apart from competitors.
Jackson’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Her proudest moment came in 2023 when she won the prestigious Black Ambition Prize. This recognition was pivotal for WENITE, opening doors to crucial conversations with HBCU leaders and validating the importance of its work. “It gave us the momentum we needed to push forward with our mission of transforming education through technology,” she shares, reflecting on the resources and support provided by Black Ambition that have been instrumental in her journey.
The Impact of Howard University
For Jackson, attending Howard University was more than an academic experience; it was a transformative journey that instilled in her the confidence, voice, and resilience needed to thrive as an entrepreneur. “Howard taught me the importance of community, and it was here that I saw firsthand the challenges HBCUs face.” She notes this value as driving WENITE’s mission to empower universities through innovative technological solutions.
Looking Ahead
As WENITE gears up for its next chapter, Jackson is focused on launching its first paid pilot program in collaboration with HBCU coalitions. She is also eager to build strategic partnerships with organizations that align with WENITE’s vision of tech-driven education solutions. “Scaling WENITE through these partnerships will allow us to expand our impact, reach more universities, and solidify our position as leaders in building SMART campuses across the African Diaspora,” Jackson emphasizes.
Anastasia Jackson is a true trailblazer, demonstrating how innovation and determination can create lasting change in the HBCU community and beyond.