DTLA Women to Watch: Ronda Jackson – Change Agent for Success

Ronda Jackson Studio D Finishes

Two things are certain when an extraordinary woman like Ronda Jackson comes to town: first, as a supplier of Benjamin Moore paint through her Studio D Contract Finishes, in the Old Bank District she’ll become one of the best options for any project, and second, through her entrepreneurial leadership programs, she’ll become one of the best instrumental designers of success for local entrepreneurs who may cross her path, blending her expertise and resources to create a custom color palette especially for their success.

Why? Because Ronda Jackson supplies Benjamin Moore paint, one of the country’s most trusted brands dating back to 1883. And although you can purchase Benjamin Moore products at select hardware retailers, Ronda offers a distinct advantage.

Ronda Jackson – photo courtesy Studio D Contract Finishes

Ready for Home Beautification or Office Renovation?

As a UCLA graduate with a degree in Interior and Environmental Design, Ronda brings a unique level of expertise to every client. From famous galleries in the Arts District to the high-rise offices and luxury lofts, Studio D Contract Finishes offers personalized interior design consultations, helping to bring out the right color match for foundational elements of artistic expression, architectural elegance, and personal spaces throughout the city.

After 16 years of proudly serving the Boyle Heights community, Studio D Contract Finishes has transitioned to Downtown Los Angeles, establishing itself at Shops on Main in the Old Bank District. This strategic move has placed Ronda at the epicenter of change and revitalization. Not just part of the neighborhood’s growth; she’s becoming a catalyst for it, actively participating in community revitalization by being a fair chance employer.

Ronda’s Studio D offers transitional employment and skill-building opportunities through programs like Paint on Purpose, offering employment opportunities for veterans, foster youth, and justice-involved individuals while creating opportunities to reenter the workforce, gain a sense of purpose, and gain professional skills.

“We sell paint. We create jobs. We build community.”

Ronda has been recognized as the Supplier of the Year by the Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council for four consecutive years, was named the Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBEC) – West Star and Enterprising Woman of the Year in 2018, and was honored as the Woman Business Owner of the Year by NAWBOLA. But her journey isn’t just about accolades or business success.

Ronda Jackson – photo courtesy Studio D Contract Finishes

As a Small Business Commissioner for the City of Los Angeles, she directly impacts policy and fosters a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, understanding that a successful business needs more than just quality materials; it needs strategic guidance and unwavering support.

She’s also completed programs like the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, equipping her with a comprehensive toolkit to guide others.

As the author of “Stay the Course: Surviving the Nine Hellish Holes of Entrepreneurship,” she provides valuable insights into overcoming challenges and scaling for success. Her “Road to Recovery” podcast shares stories of resilience, offering inspiration and practical advice, actionable insights, and encouragement to fellow entrepreneurs facing their own challenges.

Ronda says her ethos has always been centered around adaptability and responsiveness, which she believes are the cornerstones of success, not just for her business but for her clients as well, and being prepared to meet the market’s ever-changing needs.

More than just an entrepreneur. Ronda Jackson is a movement—a testament to perseverance. She’s not just a designer transforming spaces; she’s a change agent transforming lives.

As a speaker, emcee, event and podcast host, she strives to be a voice of authenticity, inspiration, and transformative change. “Through all my platforms—be it podcasting or public speaking—my mission is to enlighten, empower, and elevate,” Ronda said. 

Beyond her business endeavors, Ronda has a strong belief in the power of uplifting community. Through In the Mix, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, she leads initiatives for business capacity building and workforce development, always with the goal of creating lasting change.

Studio D Contract Finishes

Ronda also hosts monthly 3rd Saturday Events at Studio D providing a space for growth, networking, and education with themed events immersing guests in everything from sip and paint to all female boxing.

“The growth of our community’s businesses is key to the revitalization of our neighborhoods and the unlocking of potential for future generations.” Says Ronda, “The ripple effect of entrepreneurial success is immeasurable. By supporting each other, we can create a stronger economy, more jobs, and increased opportunities for everyone.”

Through every job Ronda creates, every event she hosts, Ronda Jackson is helping to move DTLA towards a community that stands united, resilient, and ready to succeed.

Studio D Contract Finishes is located at 334 S Main Street # 5018, Los Angeles, CA 90013. Https://www.studiodcontract.com

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Author: Keri Freeman

Military mom and proud parent, artist, writer, musician and film maker. Cocktail connoisseur. Publisher of DTLA Weekly.