Janelle Stowers did not originally plan on a career in real estate. In fact, when she purchased her first home at just 21 years old, she had no connections in the industry. What she did have was curiosity—and an unshakable determination to ensure that others had a better experience than she did.
“That first home-buying experience was tough,” Janelle recalls. “I had a ton of questions, but I felt like my agent wasn’t guiding me in the right direction.” Rather than walking away frustrated, she dove into learning everything she could about real estate. With an academic background in business administration and two master’s degrees, Janelle’s career path initially pointed toward accounting—not real estate. But once she entered real estate, she saw an opportunity to do more than just sell homes. She saw a chance to change the way people—particularly communities of color—experienced the home-buying process. What started as a personal mission to educate herself quickly evolved into a passion for educating others. Now, 20 years later, she’s a top real estate broker, a mentor to new agents, and the founder of the first Black woman-owned real estate school in Missouri.
“My mission was to make sure people understand the home buying process and even enjoy it,” she says. “Buying a home should be seen as exciting, not a stressful ordeal.” That commitment to education led her to not only grow a thriving brokerage but to establish a real estate school in 2022. In just a few short years, nearly 200 students have completed her program—many of whom have gone on to become successful agents themselves.
“I like to think we’re sprinkling real estate agents throughout Missouri,” Janelle says with a smile. “And not just any agents—professionals who are well-prepared and equipped to serve their communities”
Janelle’s leadership philosophy is built on investment—both in people and in continuous learning. As the broker-owner of Stowers Realty Group, she manages a team of 30 agents, ensuring that each one is successful and supported.
“I lead by example,” she says. “I would never ask my team to do something I wouldn’t do myself. And I make sure they know they are valued.” Her leadership approach is personal—she regularly checks in with her agents, hosts goal-setting meetings, and ensures that mentorship is a cornerstone of her brokerage culture.
Janelle’s influence extends far beyond her brokerage and school. She is deeply involved in community and professional organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB). Through these platforms, she works to increase housing opportunities for people of color, advocate for equitable policies, and mentor aspiring professionals.
When Janelle isn’t leading her brokerage, teaching, or traveling for advocacy, she makes time for the things that bring her joy—fashion, concerts, and family. She has been married for 23 years and has two sons.
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Janelle recently embarked on another major milestone—pursuing her doctorate in business administration. “It was a bucket-list item for me,” she says. “I’m only in my second semester, but I’m loving it.” Additionally, she was awarded the Presidency for the local NAREB chapter: Realtist of Metropolitan St Louis. She will be sworn in April of 2025.
Her passion for education, leadership, and community impact continues to shape her career. Whether she’s in the classroom, the boardroom, or the community, Janelle Stowers is leading with purpose—and making real estate more accessible, inclusive, and empowering every step of the way.
Janelle recommends: In order to obtain some things you have never had, you have to do some things you've never done. Dare to be different, but always authentic!
Connect with her on LinkedIn here