ft. Genesis Emery-Foley
Hustle & Leisure Spotlight: Genesis Emery-Foley
A Conversation with Esi Kokui Acolatse
In this Hustle & Leisure feature, we caught up with Genesis A. Emery-Foley, an award-winning Chief Marketing Officer, startup founder, and visionary leader with over 15 years of experience in integrated digital marketing and corporate brand communications. Beyond her role at the Museum of the African Diaspora, Genesis is the founder of Blueprint House Agency, where she empowers startups and nonprofits to thrive. Read on as she shares her journey, insights on leadership, and advice for building a purposeful career rooted in service and impact.
Where do you work, and what’s your title?
I am the Chief Marketing Officer for the Museum of the African Diaspora (MOAD) in San Francisco, where I lead the museum's marketing, communications, and branding efforts.
What would you say are the top three to five things that helped you get to where you are today?
First, my faith and trust in God have been foundational. I firmly believe in praying and trusting God’s timing and purpose for my life. Second, I’m deeply committed to civic leadership, focusing on helping others, uplifting communities, and being a voice for change. Third, I value fostering long-term, mutually beneficial relationships where both parties can thrive. Mentorship has played a significant role in my life. I’ve mentored students from institutions like Loyola University Chicago, UC Berkeley, and others. Fourth, I constantly strive for self-improvement—both personally and professionally—always aiming to be a better version of myself. Lastly, I remember my purpose and stay committed to serving and inspiring others.
What makes the work you do worth it?
For me, the joy lies in crafting narratives that uplift and empower. At MOAD, I get to shape the conversation around Black art and its significance to our community. Whether through a marketing campaign, a social media post, or a carefully crafted email, I’m using my skills to make a difference.
Beyond MOAD, I’m also the founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Blueprint House Agency, a digital marketing and startup development agency. Through this, I help startups, nonprofits, and small businesses optimize their growth and reach their goals, often on limited budgets. It's rewarding to be able to guide organizations in crafting messages that resonate and create impact.
What is a recent project or accomplishment you’re particularly proud of?
I’m incredibly proud of our inaugural Nexus SF Bay Area Black Art Week, which launched in October. It was an initiative to spotlight Black art and culture in the Bay Area, and it really put MOAD on the map as a global player in the contemporary Black art scene.
The campaign received widespread recognition, including coverage in The New York Times (three times!), SF Chronicle, and Knob Hill Gazette. It was a collaborative effort involving galleries, studios, museums, and artists from around the Bay Area. Nexus not only elevated MOAD’s profile but also bridged the gap between San Francisco and Oakland as hubs for Black art.
What has been your biggest professional challenge, and how did you overcome it?
One of my biggest challenges was feeling stuck in roles where I knew I had the potential to advance but hadn’t yet reached the next level. I learned to embrace patience and use those moments as opportunities to grow. I focused on improving myself, learning from every experience, and preparing for the roles I aspired to. This mindset helped me overcome feelings of stagnation and stay on the path to success.
What advice have you received that has stuck with you?
One of the most impactful pieces of advice came from my CEO: “You want people to enjoy working with you—not because they have to, but because they genuinely like you.”
As a leader, I’ve learned to balance high expectations with kindness and humility. Leadership is about service—building others up and helping them succeed. If I’m not adding value to others, I’m not truly leading.
What skill do you think is most important to develop today?
Patience. In a world of instant gratification, many people, especially younger generations, expect success to happen overnight. True success comes with time, effort, and resilience. I didn’t become a CMO at 25 or 30—it took years of learning, adapting, and trusting in God’s timing.
I also believe in looking beyond immediate trends and focusing on longevity. Social media often glamorizes quick wins, but it’s important to build a sustainable path that aligns with purpose and values.
Additionally, understanding the importance of God’s timing, staying ambitious, and maintaining a willingness to grow are essential for sustained success.
What has networking done for your career?
Networking has been a godsend for me. It’s brought incredible people into my life, including mentors and allies who have shaped my professional development. I’ve always approached networking with a mindset of reciprocity—focusing on what I can do for others rather than solely looking for help. That attitude has led to meaningful, long-lasting relationships that continue to benefit both parties.
How do you prevent stress or burnout? What does self-care look like for you?
I’m still learning how to manage stress and burnout, but I prioritize small joys and boundaries. Whether it’s walking on my Peloton treadmill while watching a movie, visiting a spa once a month, or traveling with my husband, I make time for things that bring me peace. I’ve also started setting boundaries—saying no when necessary and taking weekends or vacations to fully recharge. If something costs me my peace, it’s not worth entertaining.
What can’t you leave home without?
My prayer journal is a must—I carry it with me everywhere to write down prayers and thoughts. Music is also essential, so I never leave without my headphones. And of course, I always have my lip gloss or lipstick ready.
How would you spend 24 hours in the city you’re based in?
I’d start with a self-guided walking tour, taking pictures and soaking in the city’s charm. Then, I’d visit a popular local restaurant, check out boutiques for unique finds, and spend some time by the water. Water is therapeutic for me, and I’d end my day sitting by the bay or ocean, reflecting and recharging.
What, in your opinion, makes for a toasted life?
A Toasted Life is about living fully and authentically. It’s celebrating the ups and downs, embracing life’s lessons, and creating a meaningful path that aligns with your purpose. It’s about joy, faith, and the relationships that inspire you to keep moving forward. To live a Toasted Life is to wake up each day ready to toast to the beauty of life’s journey.
