OWN Network is expanding the Belle Collective franchise with a new cast of Southern belles in Belle Collective: Birmingham—the latest installment set in the rising city of Birmingham, Alabama. The reality series spotlights a dynamic group of women contributing to ‘The Magic City’s’ growing entrepreneurial landscape.
This season introduces viewers to the team behind the beauty empire Canvas Beauty, including founder and CEO Stormi Steele and the brand’s CFO, Amber Jones.
Also rounding out the cast are entrepreneur Tiffaney Jones, marketing strategist Funmi Ford, and talent manager K’la Inman.
Who is Amber Jones: The Connector
As a former professional basketball player, Jones understands the importance of knowing when to be a team player—and when to take the lead. On the series, she’s referred to as “The Connector,” a nickname she earned for her ability to execute with purpose, loyalty, and transparency.
“When Stormi’s business took off, she told me she needed someone she could trust,” Jones shared with The Black Wall Street Times during a recent interview. “And for me, it was simple, I show up for the people I love.”
From basketball to business
Taking on the role of the financial force behind Canvas Beauty was well within Jones’ expertise. Through her successful financial services company, the UAB alumna has helped more than 13,000 clients with credit, taxes, and business development. She even paused onboarding new clients for a year to help structure and scale Canvas Beauty.
Her transition into finance came after a career-ending injury shifted her path from the basketball court to the boardroom. “I had to rediscover who I was,” she said, reflecting on a journey that ultimately strengthened her. That same self-awareness informs how she navigates group dynamics—leading with grace, setting boundaries, and choosing coexistence over conflict when necessary.
Real life plays out in front of the camera
Jones admits she once struggled with anxiety about being perceived as “stuck up,” but she now sees the constant presence of cameras as an opportunity to push past fears of judgment and misunderstanding.
This season offers a deeper look into her life beyond business. She describes the experience as “emotional,” revealing that she was navigating deeply personal moments—including her egg retrieval journey—while filming. “I was crying in almost every episode,” she said.
Viewers can also expect shifting alliances, evolving friendships, and authentic challenges among a group of ambitious, multifaceted women. What sets the Birmingham cast apart, Jones says, is their relatability. “There are so many layers: marriage, careers, friendships. Everybody can see themselves in someone.”
What’s next for Jones
Outside of the show, Jones is preparing to launch her newest venture, Get in the Game, an organization designed to help others grow in faith, finances, and fitness. Her message is clear: success isn’t one-size-fits-all—own your journey.
Be sure to tune in to Belle Collective: Birmingham, airing weekly on OWN Network every Friday at 9 p.m. EST.
Watch the full interview with Amber Jones below!
