Jo Lena Johnson an author, leadership performance specialist and life skills manager to individuals who are seeking guidance. Johnson has recently come out with three books to support and guide youth and help others who may need direction in life.
“They get tools they can use for life,” Johnson said. “Value, virtue and character, along with faith, are the foundation.”
Johnson released three books in June 2010, If You Really Want To Live, Be Extraordinary; If You Really Want To Be Successful, Get Connected; and A Light is Born! 7 Ways to Show Your Brilliance, a children’s book.
Johnson travels between D.C. and St. Louis going to local churches, conventions, and other engagements to encourage individuals who may feel they need guidance in their life.
Johnson is a St. Louis native who graduated from Riverview Gardens High School and then from University of Missouri–Columbia with a bachelor’s degree. She is the founder of Absolute Good Training & Life Skills Management. The mission is to awaken people to the fulfillment of their purpose – living extraordinary lives. Johnson helps prepare people to thrive in life, education, work and service.
Johnson has helped numerous ministries, along with global leaders like Franklin Covey and the Starbucks Coffee Company, and has taught over 65,000 learners worldwide with her no-nonsense and dynamic approach.
“I help give people options,” she said. “Everybody has a purpose in life and with help, you can figure it out.”
Johnson goal is to let people know that there is someone who cares and it is okay to fall down so there is room to rise up again.
“Events happen in life that aren’t easy and we won’t be able to understand. If we understand that there is a power greater than us, we can make it through,” Johnson said.
Johnson recognizes past instructors from St. Louis who helped her along the way and who are credited in her books. “To whom much is given, much is expected and I was given a lot,” Johnson said.
“Many people in this city helped me, taught me and contributed to me. I believe within my generation it is my mission is to help those younger than me and give guidance, support and wisdom in order to fulfill their purposes.”
Youth are his especial concern,
“A lot of our young people are lacking value, structure and responsibility,” Johnson said.
“A lot of times people suffer silently and don’t know how to ask for help and may not have somebody in their lives who can give them support or guidance they can use.”
For more information, visit www.jolenajohnson.com.
Hoops for peace
Centennial Christian Church, located at 4950 Fountain Ave., will sponsor its 2nd Annual Shootin’ Hoops 4 Peace 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament on Saturday, August 28 starting promptly at 9 a.m. on the Parking Lot, Aubert Street side. There will be free food, prizes, awards and fun, with a message of “spreading peace and unity.” Visit www.cccstl.org or email: cccstl@sbcglobal.net.
Art for church
Metropolitan Community Church of Greater Saint Louis is staging a benefit art show, A Lifetime of Color, featuring the art work of James Riddle, August 27-29, with a opening reception ($10 admission) Friday, August 27, 7-10 p.m., at PHD Gallery, 2300 Cherokee St. Proceeds from the sale of Riddle’s works will benefit Metropolitan Community Church of Greater Saint Louis’ building fund. Call 314-361-3221, email info@mccgsl.org or visit www.mccgsl.org.
