During Black History Month, Inspire celebrates the stories of our corporate and franchise team members, as well as franchisees as we reflect on the significant roles that African-Americans have played in shaping U.S. history. Today, we spoke with Jackye Watkins, who has been a team member of Arby’s for the last 28 years and currently serves as a Director of Operations for the brand. She is also a member of our Black Voices @ Inspire Business Resource Group, which is dedicated to advocating for diversity at all levels of our organization and cultivating an inclusive culture.

What drew you to joining the Black Voices @ Inspire BRG?

To be able to have an honest dialogue with other African Americans who can relate to my point of view.

Why is being a member of this BRG important to you? 

Being part of Black Voices @ Inspire is important to me to bring awareness and diversity for African Americans across all of our brands and be an example of an impactful African American.

What are your aspirations as a member of this BRG?

My aspirations are for Black Voices to help leadership identify how to develop and attract more opportunities for African Americans at all levels of Inspire Brands.

What excites you about the future of the Black Voices @ Inspire BRG?

To bring awareness to African Americans that Black Voices is a safe platform to communicate and help open doors for equal opportunities throughout Inspire Brands.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

Black History month is about loudly celebrating, honoring and acknowledging all the accomplishments, struggles and successes that African Americans have made in this country, past and present.

How are you celebrating Black History Month? 

I joined the NAACP and will be mentoring African American teenagers. I also plan on purchasing a piece of black art.

To learn more about the Black Voices @ Inspire BRG or to join the group, contact Daija Griffin.

This story is part of an ongoing series that celebrates the stories of our corporate and franchise team members, as well as franchisees as we reflect on the significant roles that African-Americans have played in shaping U.S. history. Click here to read other stories like this.