Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Qwesha Coutou. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Qwesha, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on was a county-wide campaign for high school seniors in the United States sixth largest school district to increase Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) submissions. As a college aid consultant, I’ve visited countless high schools, faith based organizations, community organizations and detention centers to recognize money is the leading barrier to college access. While college application days were the norm, FAFSA remained the elephant in the room. Having candid conversations about family finances not only strengthened relationships with our families, counselors, school board members, community leaders and college admissions but our grassroots college access network propelled our high school seniors into countless possibilities beyond their backyard. Our FAFSA campaign gained national recognition by Chiefs for Change, who influence policy change at both state and federal levels and fight to ensure every student has access to high-quality education. What once was a four year challenge as an international first generation college student became the epitome of power.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am a Caribbean immigrant who became too comfortable outside of the box. Rather than feeling overlooked, I embraced being a fly on the wall in rooms with decision makers to better guide the masses. Being in between cultures and generations led me into public relations and design strategy. For now, I solve problems by making college aid less scary. I work to bridge the gap between design and business. What sets me apart from others is my humility and strong advocacy for one’s own self discovery. I am most proud of the connections I’ve made along my journey that continue to feed my soul. My mission is to continue the good fight to revolutionize the status quo.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is freedom and peace in trusting the unlimited potential of my mind.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I had to unlearn prioritizing loyalty to others. I believe our only priority is to discover our true self and share our gifts with the world. Loyalty to faces, spaces and places comes with expectations that may not align with our journey. When uncommunicated expectations aren’t met, conflict makes it difficult to level up. I’ve learned that following your heart will always lead to the right opportunities at the right time with the right people.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fundyourfuture.info
- Instagram: @theesaltybeeches
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/qwesha
- Youtube: @LetterstoHEIR
Image Credits
Quin Silver Keen