ABOUT MYESHA JACKSON

Myesha Jackson serves as the Policy Director for California State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, where she supervises his policy unit and oversees policy development in the Assembly as a member of his senior staff. In this role, she engages legislators, advocates, and state and local leaders to shape policies that impact communities across California. Her leadership extends beyond policy — she actively promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion through hiring, mentoring, and developing staff that reflect the state’s diversity and values.

Before joining the Speaker’s Office, Jackson served as Chief Consultant for the Assembly Human Services Committee, following years of work as a policy consultant for human services and veterans affairs for the Senate President pro Tem. Her Capitol career began in 2005 as a Senate legislative aide — a journey that has embodied her belief that access to the legislative process is one of the most powerful tools for empowerment.

With nearly two decades of service in state government, Jackson’s work is driven by compassion, integrity, and a commitment to inclusion. She has served on the boards of Leadership California and California Youth Connection, and currently chairs the National Council of Visitors for the UC Davis MIND Institute.

Born and raised in San Francisco, Jackson earned her bachelor’s degree in Romance Languages from Dartmouth College. When she’s not shaping policy, she enjoys gardening and building dream houses in Minecraft with her husband and 7-year-old son.

ON LEADERSHIP AND INFLUENCE

What does “Black Power and Influence” mean to you?
It means you still have work to do! When given a platform as a Black leader and a voice that people want to hear, you have a responsibility to use it for the benefit of the Black community and to uplift those around you.

Leadership Lesson:
It is important to meet people where they are and approach every engagement with humility. This helps you understand others’ motivation and allows you to effectively lead.

Who inspires you most and why?
My parents. They were God-fearing people who worked hard, led with kindness and compassion, and always supported my growth and access to opportunity. I carry that forward with my own child, as well as in mentoring younger people in the Capitol community.

What are the biggest opportunities you see for Sacramento’s Black community in the years ahead?
As the region continues to recover from the pandemic, there’s a real opportunity for accelerated Black business growth. Black ownership and entrepreneurship strengthen not only our community but the region as a whole.

ON EVERYDAY LIFE

Song/Artist On Repeat: Too many to pick one!

Recharge Ritual: Gardening.

Weekend in Sacramento: Probably at home — perhaps in the backyard.

Hidden Passion: I love building dream houses while playing Minecraft with my son.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our “Onyx 25” sponsors for their generous support: