Business ventures across industries are constantly evolving in this digital age with the rapid advent of technology. This is where mental health and work-life balance often take a backseat to career goals. However, Qadriyyah Johnson is a refreshing exception. As an entrepreneur under 40, Johnson has successfully scaled multiple ventures, from platforms connecting landlords and individuals needing affordable housing to real-time communication tools. Her success, however, does not come at the cost of her well-being or personal life. Instead, she embodies a balanced lifestyle, showing that leading with purpose, protecting mental health, and making a significant impact is possible.
Johnson’s journey began in Greensboro, North Carolina, and right after college, she worked in a supported living program in Mebane, North Carolina. Fast-forward a few years, and she is now the CEO and owner of several business ventures, with her longest-standing venture reaching its ninth year. Her approach, combined with remarkable time management skills, has helped her easily manage a growing portfolio of businesses. Johnson credits much of her growth to word-of-mouth referrals, reflecting the trust she has built within her network.
One of Johnson’s flagship businesses is 123ezhome, a platform she initially launched in 2021 and recently relaunched in 2024 after several enhancements. This platform provides a directory connecting landlords and individuals seeking long-term care or affordable housing, simplifying the navigation of essential services. The journey to bring 123ezhome to its current state wasn’t straightforward. Johnson rebuilt the platform three times to meet her vision, ensuring it delivered on the promise of excellence in care coordination and access.
Another venture, 123ezalerts, reflects Johnson’s commitment to quality and compliance within human services. Initially developed in 2021, the platform now includes real-time alerts designed to help teams collaborate efficiently and stay informed about relevant industry standards. This tool can be particularly useful for healthcare and business consulting professionals, supporting clients in navigating regulatory requirements more effectively.
What truly makes Johnson stand out is her passion for advocacy and support. Her inspiration stems from observing small and mid-sized business owners struggle to navigate the complexities of their industries. Realizing they often lacked basic knowledge about their investments, she established her first business to be their “eyes and ears” in the industry. Through her work, she’s been a reliable guide for those needing operational support, compliance advice, or business consulting.
Despite her success, Johnson’s journey has been anything but easy. As a young African American woman in leadership roles, she often faced skepticism and had to assert her credibility in rooms where she was the only one representing her background. Balancing multiple businesses, especially in human services and group home management, has been demanding. Yet, she remains grounded by setting firm boundaries, celebrating her achievements, and prioritizing self-care.
Johnson’s leadership style, marked by empathy, clarity, and fresh ideas, has proven invaluable through the challenges. She’s a thought leader who fills gaps with solutions, guiding others through both business and personal issues. Johnson embraces her identity as a young woman of color, viewing it as an asset that fuels her confidence and determination. Her life lessons emphasize the importance of kindness, humility, and the power of systems, which she sees as non-negotiable for success.
As she looks into the future, Johnson envisions herself as the “Olivia Pope” of her industry, a trusted advisor and fixer for hundreds of organizations. She aspires to teach others her methods, creating a ripple effect of empowered entrepreneurs. With goals to support organizations, Johnson looks to make a more significant impact in her field. For aspiring entrepreneurs, her advice is to embrace themselves the way they are, excel in whatever industry they choose, and do everything with complete integrity.
Published by: Gracia M.