Her Story
About Jessica
Jessica Stanley is the Executive Director of Brave Men, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the conversation around men’s health and prostate cancer awareness. She co-founded Brave Men in 2020 alongside her late husband, Dimitrious Stanley, whose personal battle with stage 4 prostate cancer inspired the organization’s mission. Since becoming Executive Director in 2023, Jessica has guided the organization’s growth, expanding programs that provide education, support, and resources to men and families affected by prostate cancer while advancing the message that “No Man Should Fight Alone.”
Through her leadership at Brave Men, Jessica focuses on advocacy, community outreach, and early detection initiatives. She oversees programs such as Brave Boxes, which provide encouragement and support to men undergoing prostate cancer treatment, and is helping develop a mobile PSA screening unit designed to bring lifesaving screenings directly into communities. She also serves as the Ohio representative for the Prostate Cancer Coalition, where she advocates for increased awareness, earlier screening, and improved support for patients. Her work centers on building partnerships, creating meaningful conversations about men’s health, and ensuring families have access to resources during difficult times.
Before dedicating herself fully to nonprofit leadership, Jessica built a successful career as an esthetician and entrepreneur with nearly three decades of experience in customer service, relationship building, and small business ownership. Her background in personal care shaped her compassionate approach to leadership and service, emphasizing authenticity, empathy, and connection. Today, Jessica continues to combine her entrepreneurial experience and personal passion to advance Brave Men’s mission, honoring her husband’s legacy while creating a lasting impact in the fight against prostate cancer.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jessica
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my husband’s support and to leading with heart, compassion, and authenticity. Knowing that our work makes a meaningful difference in helping others continues to inspire me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to just start. Progress comes from taking action, and even through failure, there is always an opportunity to learn and grow.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to stay grounded, find something you are passionate about, and pursue work that aligns with your values while making a positive impact on others.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge and opportunity in my field is increasing awareness and focus on men’s health. Creating a stronger voice, gaining recognition, and encouraging men to feel comfortable seeking support and care are important steps forward.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are staying true to who I am, leading with heart, and showing genuine compassion for others. Serving and making a positive impact in people’s lives is at the core of everything I do.
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