From the U.S. Army to the corporate world and now business ownership, J’nez Thomas is living proof that discipline, vision, and purpose can pave the way to success across any field. As an INROADS alum, veteran advocate, and Ohio’s first Sugaring NYC franchise owner, J’nez continues to lead with impact—honoring her roots while creating opportunity for others.

Bridging Military Experience to Corporate Success with INROADS

Before attending college at Howard University, J’nez served eight years in the U.S. Army as a Supply Sergeant based in Honolulu, Hawaii. While she gained extensive logistics and operations expertise, she realized she needed support translating her military experience into a competitive civilian résumé.

While in college, she discovered the INROADS program, which helped her gain the professional skills she needed to take her next career step.

“INROADS filled in the professional transitioning gaps that the military didn’t prepare me for,” J’nez says. “The program taught me how to interview, build a strong résumé, and highlight my transferable skills. That guidance was invaluable.”

Her INROADS internship with PepsiCo as a Supply Chain Manager Intern provided more than just experience—it gave her the confidence to enter the corporate world with purpose. Upon graduating from Howard University, she secured a full-time position with Altria, where she spent over seven years sharpening her leadership and operational skills.

“INROADS set the foundation for everything I’ve built since then. I still leverage the skills, connections, and mindset I gained from the program.”

From Idea to Impact: The Birth of J’nez & Things, Inc.

In 2022, after relocating from Philadelphia to Ohio, J’nez noticed her favorite beauty services—especially natural hair removal—weren’t available locally. A devoted customer of Sugaring NYC, she’d drive to Michigan for appointments, according to an article in Shoutout Ohio featuring J’nez. Then it hit her: “If I’m searching for this, others probably are too.”

That realization sparked the founding of J’nez & Things, Inc., the parent company of her Sugaring NYC franchise—Ohio’s first all-organic hair removal and lash studio. The business officially opened in late 2024 in Creekside Gahanna, and hosted its grand opening celebration in April 2025.

“It’s been challenging, but also deeply rewarding,” she reflects. “Watching my team grow and seeing our inclusive, diverse space come to life has made every step worth it.”

Her efforts have already sparked local momentum: Sugaring NYC has partnered with Columbus Fury, Ohio’s only professional women’s volleyball team, reinforcing J’nez’s mission to champion women across industries.

A Passion for Advocacy and Community Empowerment

Beyond business, J’nez is a national advocate for women veterans. In 2023, she was crowned 1st Runner-Up for Ms. Veteran America, a platform that celebrates the “woman beyond the uniform.” During her advocacy tour, she raised over $26,000 to support housing for homeless women veterans and their children.

She plans to continue giving back by:

• Expanding her franchise to four major Ohio cities
• Funding trade school scholarships
• Creating paid internships for underserved communities
• Advocating for women veterans transitioning into civilian careers

Advice for Current INROADS Students

J’nez’s career path has been far from linear—but it’s been filled with purpose. Her advice to current INROADS students reflects that journey:

“Your major or initial career vision may have transferable skills that extend far beyond what you think you’re capable of. Be open. Stay curious. You might discover new paths that align with your skills—and passions—in ways you never expected.”

J’nez Thomas exemplifies what happens when preparation meets passion. Whether in the military, the office, or as a small business owner, she continues to lead with service, determination, and heart.