2020 Optimal Living Magazine Christian Women in Business Issue

OLM: What or who inspired you to start your
business?
KP: I did not plan to start a business, but it was
the support of family, friends and clients that
kick started it all. When I started I had clients
lined up for me and it was truly a blessing! I
took that as a sign that it was meant for me
to do this. They all believed in me more than I
believed it for myself.
OLM: Is there something that keeps you
grounded and focused to press forward in
making your business a success?
KP: I believe I am blessed with the gift of
creativity and it is my responsibility to walk in
my purpose everyday to put this gift to good
use. I am a driven person. I take the opportunity
to examine the challenges I have had in business
and work hard to apply what I have learned
from those lessons. I have adopted the saying
that “my missteps in business are not failures,
but lessons that needed to be learned.” This
helps me keep things in perspective.
From a creative standpoint, success is when my
clients tell me how I have changed their lives
through creating spaces that reflect their best
selves. On the business side, success is always a
work in progress. I work to be strategic with my
business practices and create ways to sustain
my business long term.
OLM: How long have you been in business?
KP: I’ve been in business for 2 years, after 18
years in the industry.
OLM: How do you give back to your
community or the people that you serve?
How do people benefit from your services?
KP: I have a strong connection to projects with a
community presence. I find those projects to be
the most rewarding. I had an opportunity to speak
to several classes at a recent career day and I had
the best time with our interactive design industry
discussions! I look forward to participating in
future events. I am currently working on a designer
showhouse where the proceeds from the event
will go to a worthy cause. It is my intention as the
business grows, we will take on more mentorship
and philanthropic work in the coming years.
OLM: Why is it so important for you to give
back to the people you serve?
KP: To whom much is given, much is required.
I grew up hearing and experiencing this first
hand. As an adult, I realized how the sacrifice
and generosity of others has shaped my life. I
know that I am fortunate to have many things to
celebrate with my business in such a short time,
and I hope to be a blessing to others.
OLM: What scripture best describes you, your
life?
KP: Jeremiah 29:11 -- “For I know the plans I
have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper
you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope
and a future.” Philippians 4:13 “I can do all
things through Christ who strengthens me.”
OLM: What tips would you give a person
thinking about entrepreneurship?
KP: I didn’t plan for this path I am on now, so I
find myself sharing with others to not rush into it.
However, I was told by another business owner
that the fear is still the same whether you plan for
it or not. You adjust to this. There are lots of risks
but enough rewards that make you appreciate it
all. Get a business coach! Secure your financial
and legal partners. Plant your feet on solid ground.
Be prepared to sacrifice. Stay true to yourself and
your brand. Stay faithful and focused.
OLM: How can people get in contact with you?
KP: Please stay in touch via my website at
www.kiyondapowell.com or email
hello@kiyondapowell.com. You can also follow
along with me on Facebook or Instagram at
@kiyondapowell.
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