When you walk through the doors of Chrysalis’ Downtown Los Angeles center, you’ll find Jazelle working behind the scenes to help power our mission forward. As an Operations Coordinator for Chrysalis Works, she supports our social enterprise business lines while bringing heart, lived experience, and over 20 years of professional expertise to her role. Jazelle’s path to Chrysalis was shaped by a blend of personal and professional experiences. With a background in customer relationship management across the finance, energy, and consumer recreation sectors, she knew how to lead with both strategy and service. But it was her experience as a justice impacted individual that brought her closer to the work we do.
“After becoming justice impacted, I faced barriers that hadn’t existed before,” Jazelle shares. “Chrysalis gave me the opportunity to turn my lived experience into a strength. I was drawn to the chance to help others facing similar challenges and show that one bad decision doesn’t define a person.”
She joined the team 10 months ago as an Employment Specialist, where she worked directly with clients. One of her favorite moments was on her final day in that role, which coincided with the first day of the 2025 Ladder Up Training & Internship Cohort. “Seeing clients I had worked with take that next step, nervous but hopeful, was a powerful reminder of why this work matters”. In her current role, Jazelle has been immersed in learning the ins and outs of Chrysalis Enterprises, from understanding contracts and business lines to collaborating with the dedicated individuals behind them. “Chrysalis accepts me as I am,” she says. “It’s a place where I can show up fully, contribute meaningfully, and grow both professionally and personally.”
Jazelle has also experienced profound personal growth during her time at Chrysalis. “This job has helped me forgive myself and embrace my past as a source of strength. I’ve learned how to use my story to support others and transform something that once felt shameful into a powerful tool for change.”
One of the most valuable lessons she’s learned is the power of presence. “Clients don’t always need solutions right away. Sometimes, they just need to be seen and heard. Learning to hold space without judgment has transformed how I connect with others.”
Looking ahead, Jazelle envisions a future filled with purpose, service, and meaningful impact. “I see myself continuing to do purposeful work surrounded by people who are just as passionate. Chrysalis has shown me what it feels like to belong to a mission driven team.”
To anyone thinking about joining Chrysalis, whether as a client or a team member, Jazelle offers this advice: “Do it. Chrysalis is more than a job or a program. It’s a place to grow, to be accepted, and to be part of something meaningful. It’s a community that believes in second chances and transformation.”
Like Jazelle, you, too, can make a difference in the lives of individuals navigating barriers to employment by joining our team of dedicated and passionate professionals.