Jelissa Thomas, MBE, DBE, SBE
**Jelissa Thomas, MBE, DBE, SBE** is a trailblazing transportation innovator, mental health advocate, and founder of **D3 Delivery LLC**, a woman-led logistics enterprise based in North Carolina. As a certified **Minority, Disadvantaged, and Small Business Enterprise**, Jelissa built her six-figure company from the ground up—generating **$677,000 in revenue without owning a single truck**. Her strategic, asset-light business model challenges traditional logistics norms and has positioned D3 Delivery as a trusted partner for major corporations across the Carolinas. Through grit, creativity, and faith, Jelissa has redefined what’s possible for single mothers and minority women in male-dominated industries.
In addition to her work as a CEO, Jelissa is a **2024 NBCC Minority Fellowship recipient** and a **2025 NMSDC Emerging Young Entrepreneurs Cohort Fellow**, where she focuses on bridging the gap between workforce reentry, mental health, and economic empowerment. Her passion for purpose-driven business has earned her recognition from the **Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ)**, where D3 Delivery joined the **Workforce & Justice Alliance**, providing employment opportunities for individuals rebuilding after incarceration or recovery.
A proud graduate of the **University of North Carolina at Pembroke**, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in **Mental Health Counseling**, Jelissa combines her background in **web design, business strategy, and counseling** to create change at the intersection of logistics and human impact. Her mission extends beyond moving freight—she’s moving lives forward. Through D3 Delivery and her advocacy, Jelissa continues to prove that innovation, integrity, and inclusion can coexist as the true engines of progress.
• Black business Olympic Speaker
• NBCC Minority Fellowship Program for Addictions Counselors
• The Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham- B.A.
• University of North Carolina at Pembroke- Master's
• Code [BLACK]
• The Future Rich Aunties
• Black Girls CODE
• Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization - UNCP
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to faith, perseverance, and a genuine passion for creating opportunities in my community. I came into this industry with no experience, but through hard work and dedication, I built a business that not only grew to over half a million in revenue but also provides meaningful jobs—especially for Black men who deserve a fair chance to thrive.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my mentors—my mother, Diane, who supported and advocated for me, and Sylvia Blanton, who guided me through opportunities for women in business—teaching me the importance of mentorship, persistence, and believing in my own potential.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to command respect, stand tall, and always know who you are—confidence and self-awareness are your greatest tools in a male-dominated field.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field right now is balancing the demands of running a business while still learning how to run a business and giving myself grace through the process. The opportunity lies in growing strategically and creating meaningful impact for my community.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are honesty and treating every client as if I’m moving my own family. I also cherish spending time with my son in nature, gardening, and supporting local communities through farmers markets.