Esther S. Jackson-Stowell
CEO | Ekot Group LLC
What accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am most proud of building not just a company, but a platform that creates opportunities for others.
Ekot Group has grown from a single operation into a multi-vertical organization managing hundreds of units, supporting clients in building wealth and creating jobs within the community. At the same time, I’ve expanded into new industries, including health sciences and media, while maintaining a strong commitment to civic leadership and community impact.
But beyond business, I am equally proud of the life I’ve built at home. Raising my children, opening our home to foster youth, and navigating the complexities of family and leadership simultaneously is one of the most meaningful and challenging accomplishments of my life.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that significantly shaped your path?
A pivotal moment in my career was the decision to move from simply working within real estate to building something of my own. Founding Ekot Properties required me to step fully into ownership — not just of a business, but of the responsibility that comes with leading, making decisions and creating opportunities for others.
At the time, I didn’t have every answer or a perfectly mapped-out plan, but I had clarity around what I wanted to build: a platform that could provide stability, growth and long-term wealth for the people we serve. That decision forced me to think differently — to move from executing tasks to building systems, from managing properties to building an organization.
Another defining moment has been the expansion beyond real estate into other industries. Stepping into new spaces, like health sciences with Aureum Peptides, required me to trust my ability to learn, adapt and lead in unfamiliar territory. It reinforced that growth often comes from being willing to step into what you don’t yet fully know.
Both of these moments shaped how I approach business today. They taught me that clarity of purpose matters more than certainty, and that building something meaningful requires both courage and consistency.
What key advice would you offer to other aspiring leaders?
Be intentional about what you are building — and why.
It’s easy to get caught up in movement without direction, but clarity of purpose will guide your decisions — especially in moments of uncertainty. When you are clear on your “why,” it becomes easier to stay grounded, even as your responsibilities grow.
I would also encourage aspiring leaders to focus on building systems, not just outcomes. Success that depends solely on your personal effort is difficult to sustain. When you build systems — whether in business, leadership or your personal life — you create something that can grow beyond you.
Another key lesson is to embrace growth, even when it feels uncomfortable. Many of the opportunities that have shaped my journey came from stepping into spaces where I didn’t yet have all the answers. You don’t need perfect clarity to begin — you need the willingness to move forward and learn as you go.
Finally, don’t feel the need to limit yourself to one path. You are allowed to evolve, expand and build across different areas. The most important thing is to stay aligned with your values while remaining open to growth and possibility.
Leadership is not just about achieving success — it’s about creating opportunities, building with intention and leaving something meaningful behind.