Breaking barriers in the world of sports is not any easy task, especially in a league as male-dominated as the NFL.

Edy Lawson-Jackson and her daughter Samira Jackson did just that by becoming first-ever mother-daughter duo to be certified by the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) as sports agents. Their journey will not be only historic, but in addition a testament to the resilience, exertions and dedication of Black women who’re making strides in industries where they’re underrepresented.

Edy Lawson-Jackson, a Maryland native, began her profession in sports law in the late Nineteen Eighties, with a deal with athlete representation. Throughout her profession, Edy has been an advocate for expanding opportunities for girls and people of color in the sports industry. In 2010, she earned her NFL agent certification, becoming one among the few Black women to represent skilled football players at the highest level.

For her daughter Samira, following in her mother’s footsteps was a natural step. Samira, a company finance skilled with a law degree, saw first-hand how her mother navigated the competitive world of national sports and decided to follow an analogous path. In 2022, Samira received NFLPA certificationmaking history as a member of the first mother-daughter team to represent NFL athletes.

The path to becoming an NFL agent is rigorous. Both Edy and Samira had to satisfy rigorous criteria to earn their NFLPA certifications, including passing a comprehensive exam, fulfilling continuing education requirements and demonstrating extensive knowledge of NFL regulations. The certification process is designed to make sure agents are fully prepared to represent the interests of NFL players in contract negotiations, marketing agreements and other skilled opportunities.

In an industry where women — especially Black women — are vastly underrepresented, the mother-daughter duo’s certification marks a pivotal moment. According to recent statistics, of the nearly 1,000 certified NFL agents, only 88 are womenand an excellent smaller fraction of them are black women. That makes the Jacksons’ achievement all the more remarkable, as they proceed to pave the way for future generations of ladies of color to follow of their footsteps.

Edy Lawson-Jackson’s profession in sports law spans greater than three a long time. After graduating from law school and passing the bar exam in the early Nineties, she worked in a wide range of legal fields, including entertainment and sports, gaining precious experience before becoming a licensed NFLPA agent in 2010. She has represented athletes, entertainers and other high-profile clients, with a deal with expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in the industry.

In an interview for Edy reflected on her journey and the importance of working along with her daughter, “It’s been a long journey, but being able to do this work with my daughter is a dream come true. It’s really important to us to show that Black women belong in this space and that we can have a significant impact.” Samira echoed similar sentiments, stating that working along with her mother was each inspiring and empowering.

The sports industry, especially at the NFL level, has long been dominated by men. Both Edy and Samira faced challenges navigating a career that always excludes women and people of color from positions of power. Yet their determination to succeed and break barriers was unwavering.

Samira’s path to becoming an NFL agent wasn’t without its challenges. As a Black woman in corporate finance, she needed to prove herself in an industry that’s each competitive and proof against change before moving on to sports representation. But her resilience paid off, and in 2022, Samira joined her mother at Affiliated Sports Advisors (ASA), their joint firm, where they represent NFL players and proceed to develop their roster.

Edy and Samira’s historic accomplishment is greater than just a private milestone; it’s a robust reminder of the changing face of the NFL. As the first mother-daughter team to earn NFL agent certification, they’re a part of a broader movement to extend diversity and inclusivity in sports. Their work creates opportunities for other women—particularly Black women—to enter and thrive in industries where they’ve historically been excluded.

For many young women trying to break into the sports industry, Edy and Samira are role models who show that perseverance, exertions, and dedication can open doors. Their story is a testament to the power of family, heritage, and the influence of Black women in shaping industries which have long been dominated by others.