Interview with Kyah, Founder of Social Shift
WIDD Network: Can you share a bit about your personal journey and what led you to start your own business?
Kyah: My journey towards entrepreneurship and the desire to make a difference in the digital marketing industry stems from a blend of personal experiences, professional aspirations, and a deep-seated belief in the power of authentic storytelling.
From a young age, I had a curiosity and drive to explore unconventional paths. While I appreciated formal education, I found myself gravitating towards real-world experiences and hands-on learning. This inclination led me to pursue internships and part-time roles in various industries, including fashion, beauty, and lifestyle.
Throughout these experiences, I began to recognise the potential of marketing and branding as industries for creating connections and driving change. However, it wasn't until I fully immersed myself in the digital landscape that I truly realised the transformative power of storytelling in this realm.
As time went on exploring the marketing industry, I became increasingly aware of its vast reach and influence. Yet, I observed a desiring need for authenticity and inclusivity. Traditional marketing narratives often overlooked diverse voices and failed to resonate with a broader audience.
It was during this realisation that the idea for my own branding agency began to take shape. I envisioned a platform where brands could authentically connect with their audiences through cultural storytelling—a platform that celebrates diversity, encourages inclusivity, and amplifies underrepresented voices.
I became aware of the transformative impact that authentic narratives could have on brand perception, consumer engagement, and societal norms.
Today, as I launch my own branding agency, I am driven by a singular purpose—to make a difference in the digital marketing landscape. I envision a future where brands embrace cultural diversity, where inclusivity is not just a buzzword but a guiding principle, and where authentic storytelling serves as a catalyst for positive change.
Through my agency, I aspire to empower brands to embrace their unique narratives, to champion representation and to create meaningful connections with their audiences. I am committed to challenging the status quo, to pushing boundaries, and to reshaping the digital marketing industry for the better.
In essence, my journey towards entrepreneurship is not just about building a business—it's about creating a movement. It's about harnessing the power of storytelling to inspire, to educate, and to effect change. And it's about leaving a lasting legacy—one where every voice is heard, every story is valued, and every brand has the opportunity to make a difference.
WIDD Network: Were there any specific challenges you faced as a woman in the business world, and how did you overcome them?
Kyah: Navigating the business world as a woman of colour has undoubtedly presented its own set of unique challenges. From implicit biases to systemic barriers, I've encountered obstacles that have tested my resilience.
However, through perseverance and a supportive network, I've been able to overcome these challenges and carve out a space for myself in the industry. Another challenge I encountered was continuously witnessing the lack of representation and support for women of colour in leadership positions.
Despite the increasing awareness of diversity and inclusion initiatives, the reality is that women of colour continue to be underrepresented in key decision-making roles. I've been able to overcome obstacles and achieve success on my own terms. And as I continue to navigate this journey, I remain committed to breaking down barriers, empowering others, and creating opportunities for ALL women to thrive in this industry.
Professional Insights
WIDD Network: What key lessons have you learned while building and managing your business?
Kyah: Well firstly I would say adapting to change has reinforced the necessity of staying nimble, responsive, and proactive in navigating the ever-evolving business landscape.
Secondly, building strong relationships with clients and industry peers has been foundational to building trust, loyalty, and establishing credibility within my industry. And lastly, having a clear vision and strategic roadmap has made my life easier and enhanced the importance of setting goals and aligning actions to achieve them effectively.
WIDD Network: How do you handle setbacks and challenges in your professional life?
Kyah: I try to normalise setbacks because I firmly believe they are integral to the journey; without a few bumps in the road, there wouldn't be much of a journey to embark on. It's crucial to remind yourself that setbacks are transient and navigating them is a natural part of pursuing a successful career. Also, I have been super grateful for having a support system, both professionally and personally, that has been instrumental in helping me through those challenging times. As a business owner, it's easy to fall into the trap of isolation, which can exacerbate the impact of setbacks. Therefore, having that support system has been valuable through some of my difficult moments.
WIDD Network: Can you highlight a specific achievement or milestone that you are particularly proud of in your career?
Kyah: An achievement that truly shaped my career was the day I proudly walked across the stage to receive my university degree. There was a time where there was a lot of uncertainty around my early career which is why that stands out as a beacon of achievements for me. I was once a college dropout, convinced that my path was already set in stone. The significance of that moment extended far beyond mere academic achievement. Graduating opened doors I had once deemed inaccessible, allowing me to enter realms of opportunity I had only dreamed of. It also offered me the chance to forge meaningful connections with individuals whose paths I might never have crossed otherwise.
I know that some people’s university experiences may differ, however for me it laid out the groundwork for a career marked by continual growth and evolution. It equipped me with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate into the business person I am today. Today, as I reflect on my career milestones, it's a testament to the transformative power of education and my steadfast belief in one's potential to carve out their own path in the world.
Leadership and Mentorship
WIDD Network: How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it contributed to your success?
Kyah: I consider myself to be a transformational leader, I lead with vision and purpose, I do my best to articulate clear goals for the future and share that with those who work alongside me with the same shared values. I challenge societal norms, and empower my clients to embrace change and adapt to new opportunities. My leadership style has contributed to my success in several ways. I've created an environment where individuals feel empowered to take ownership of their work and contribute their unique talents and perspectives.
WIDD Network: Have you had mentors or role models who have guided you along the way, and how important were they in your journey?
Kyah: During my time at university, I was fortunate to be assigned a mentor who played a pivotal role in my professional growth over the span of two years. Having a mentor during my university years proved to be transformative, helping to shape me into the business person I am today. The guidance, support, and insights provided by my mentor not only helped me navigate the challenges of university life but also laid the foundation for my future success in my chosen field. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been mentored and am committed to paying it forward by supporting and empowering others on their own journey of growth and discovery.
WIDD Network: What advice would you give to women aspiring to become leaders in their respective industries?
Kyah: Firstly, I would encourage them to embrace the overall journey, their strengths, passions, and perspectives, to stay true to themselves as these are valuable assets that can set them apart as leaders. Secondly, I would emphasise the importance of continuous learning and skill development, whether through formal education, mentorship, or hands-on experience. Lifelong learning is essential for staying relevant in rapidly evolving industries and honing leadership abilities. Additionally, I would encourage them to seek out opportunities for visibility and advancement, whether by taking on leadership roles within their organisations, participating in industry events and conferences, or engaging in networking and professional development activities. Lastly, I would remind women that leadership is not solely about individual achievement, but also about empowering and lifting others along the way.
Work-Life Balance
WIDD Network: Balancing work and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage to maintain a healthy work-life balance?
Kyah: I think what really helps me is to establish clear boundaries between work and personal time, allocating specific hours for work-related tasks and dedicating time to personal time and relaxation. I also make self-care a non-negotiable priority. Whether it's engaging in regular exercise, practising mindfulness or spending quality time with loved ones, I carve out time each day to recharge and rejuvenate. Balancing work and personal life can get overwhelming from time to time but I believe in setting realistic goals that will allow you to manage your work commitments effectively without inflicting your personal time.
WIDD Network: Have there been moments when you felt the need to prioritise one aspect over the other, and how did you navigate those situations?
Kyah: Yes, there have been moments in my life when I've felt the need to prioritise one aspect over the other when it comes to work-life balance. I've found it helpful to take a step back and assess my priorities and commitments in both areas. I start by identifying the critical tasks and responsibilities that need immediate attention in both my work and personal life. Then, I prioritise them based on their urgency and importance.
Advice for Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs
WIDD Network: For women who are considering starting their own business, what advice would you give them?
Kyah: For the ladies who are looking to start a business my advice would be don't feel pressured to launch a fully-fledged business from the get-go. Start small, test your idea, and iterate based on feedback and results. As you gain traction and confidence, you can gradually scale your business and expand your offerings. Stay true to yourself and your vision, remember that every successful entrepreneur started somewhere, and with dedication and perseverance, you can achieve your dreams too. Lastly, contact myself aha, a Brand Strategist that can help you make the right business decisions.
WIDD Network: What are the key skills and qualities you believe are crucial for success in entrepreneurship?
Kyah: Entrepreneurs need to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to problems. Creativity allows them to identify new opportunities, differentiate their products or services, and stay ahead of the competition. Building a business is fraught with setbacks, failures, and obstacles. Resilience enables entrepreneurs to bounce back from setbacks, learn from failures, and persevere in the face of adversity. Success in entrepreneurship requires a combination of creativity, resilience, adaptability, leadership, vision, financial literacy, risk management, networking and persistence.
WIDD Network: How can women overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome when pursuing their entrepreneurial goals?
Kyah: The first step in overcoming imposter syndrome is to recognise and acknowledge the feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy when they arise. Understand that these feelings are common and do not reflect your true abilities or worth as an entrepreneur. Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, peers, and friends who can offer encouragement, validation, and perspective. Share your feelings of imposter syndrome with trusted individuals who can provide reassurance and support. Take time to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Recognise and acknowledge your successes, and give yourself credit for the hard work and effort you've put into building your business.
Community and Diversity
WIDD Network: In what ways do you contribute to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within your business and industry?
Kyah: Through our branding agency, we work closely with brands to incorporate cultural storytelling into their marketing strategies. Collaborating with diverse creators, storytellers, and communities, we ensure that narratives authentically reflect the richness and diversity of human experiences. We strive to uplift and empower these voices by providing platforms for their stories to be heard and celebrated.
We also prioritise representation in our creative process, ensuring that all voices are valued and respected. Whether through casting diverse models for campaigns, featuring multicultural narratives in branding materials, or incorporating inclusive language and imagery, we aim to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and represented.
Furthermore, we engage in community outreach initiatives and collaborations aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion beyond the confines of our client work. By partnering with nonprofits, advocacy groups, and community organisations, we leverage our platform and resources to support initiatives that advance social justice, equity, and inclusion.
Overall, at Social Shift, we believe that cultural storytelling has the power to bridge divides, challenge stereotypes, and build empathy and understanding across diverse communities. We strive to create a more inclusive and equitable world where everyone's story is valued and celebrated.
WIDD Network: How important do you believe it is for women to support and uplift each other in the professional world?
Kyah: It’s very important for women to support each other in the professional world for several compelling reasons. Firstly, women face unique challenges and barriers in male-dominated industries and workplaces, ranging from gender discrimination and bias to unequal opportunities for advancement. We as women should be joining forces encouraging a solidarity culture and support for one another. Together women can collectively challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and pave the way for future generations of female leaders.
WIDD Network: Have you faced any challenges related to diversity and inclusion, and how have you addressed them?
Kyah: While I personally haven't encountered many challenges related to diversity and inclusion, I attribute this to the fortunate environments I've had the privilege to work in, where everyone is championed and celebrated. However, I've witnessed challenges in other spaces where inclusivity may not have been as prevalent. These challenges have ranged from subtle forms of bias and discrimination to systemic barriers that hinder progress and success for individuals, including myself, in the business world.
Moreover, the lack of representation and visibility of black women in leadership positions has posed a significant barrier to advancement in my career. The absence of role models and mentors who resemble me has made navigating the complexities of the business world and envisioning myself in leadership positions more challenging.
But, despite these obstacles, I've taken proactive steps to create opportunities for other marginalised individuals in the business world. Whether through mentorship programs or partnerships with minority-owned businesses, I've worked to empower and uplift underrepresented voices, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive ecosystem.
WIDD Network: What attracted you to WIDD Network?
Kyah: The WIDD Network's mission aligns perfectly with my values and aspirations, as they actively work to dismantle barriers and create a level playing field for women in the workplace. Their dedication to providing resources, support, and mentorship to women at all stages of their careers is both inspiring and impactful and something I look forward to witnessing or being a part of the growth journey.
Future Goals and Legacy
WIDDNetwork: What are your future goals for your business, and how do you envision its impact in the coming years?
Kyah: In the coming years, I envision Social Shift making a significant impact in shaping the narrative landscape, challenging stereotypes, and amplifying underrepresented voices. We will continue to drive a positive change and inspire meaningful connections across diverse communities. One of my main future goals and aspirations is to expand Social Shift's reach and influence, both nationally and internationally. I would love to partner with an array of clients and collaborators. I hope our message will be well received and we’ll be able to connect with audiences around the globe.
WIDDNetwork: When reflecting on your career, what legacy do you hope to leave behind, especially for aspiring women entrepreneurs?
Kyah: Ultimately, I hope to leave behind a legacy that extends far beyond my individual achievements. I aim to inspire other women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams with confidence. Through representation, I hope what I'll be able to leave behind will be measured not only by my professional accomplishments but by the lives I've touched, the barriers I've broken, and the doors I've opened for future generations of women entrepreneurs like myself. Lastly, collaboration, not competition, is at the heart of my approach to entrepreneurship.
Inspiration
WIDD Network: Who’s your inspirational woman?
Kyah: It sounds cliche, but my mother holds a special place in my heart as my biggest inspiration as a businesswoman. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur is a testament to her resilience and determination. One of the most admirable qualities about my mother is her relentless work ethic and commitment to excellence. She has always been willing to go the extra mile, putting in long hours and sacrificing her own comfort for the success of her business. She is not only my role model and mentor but also my biggest source of inspiration and encouragement as I navigate my own path in the world of business.
WIDD Network: what’s your favourite quote and mantra
Kyah: I really like the saying "Great things never come from comfort zones" . It resonates deeply with me on a personal and professional level. Throughout my life, I've found that the most significant progress and accomplishments occur when I dare to venture beyond the confines of what feels safe and comfortable. Whether it's pursuing new opportunities, tackling daunting tasks, or embarking on unfamiliar journeys, it's in those moments of discomfort and uncertainty that true transformation takes place.
Connect with Kyah on LinkedIn
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