Ashlei williams

Simply put, writing is Ashlei Williams’ passion. With a bachelor’s from Spelman College and a master’s from Northwestern University’s Medill School, she has been telling stories for business, philanthropic, minority, and academic audiences for nearly two decades.

A journalist by training, Ashlei built her career in media innovation, taking on roles ranging from social media coordinator to chief marketing officer. After gaining experience in business-to-business (B2B) publishing, she transitioned into consumer communications. What began as freelance media relations and creative writing projects for a boutique agency quickly evolved into a thriving independent practice.

In 2016, she founded GJC Publicity as a boutique firm offering branding, creative communications and digital marketing. Today, GJC Publicity has scaled down to a consultancy model, where Ashlei serves as Principal Consultant specializing in creative strategy, market research, branding and copywriting.

Beyond work, Ashlei is active in the community as a member of The Links, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and the advisory board of Loo-Sha Beauty. She previously served on the board of Girls Inc. of Memphis, as a member of the Junior League, and is a graduate of NEXUS Leaders.

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“The letters in GJC Publicity’s name are an homage to women in my family. Each color showcases their birthstone. The ‘G’ is for Gladys Williams, my paternal grandmother and a model of service and humility. The ‘J’ is for Jacquelyn Ross, my maternal grandmother and an example of poise and assertiveness. And, the ‘C’ is for Cheryl Ross-Williams, my mother and reminder to always unapologetically be myself.”
- Ashlei Williams, Principal Consultant, GJC Publicity