We were lucky to catch up with Kellie Thomas recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kellie, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

The idea of Camps by KT was created to nurture the youth to become well-rounded individuals through educational, and fun hands-on programs that cultivate creativity. I am on a mission to empower youth to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally; to achieve their own version of success.

As a youth development visionary, I am fueled by a passion for helping children elevate and thrive in life. My Great-Great-Grandfather, J.R.E. Lee served as the third president of Florida A&M University (FAMU) and also founded the National Association of Colored Teachers. My Great-Grandfather, Dr. Joseph Thomas was a pioneering entrepreneur and philanthropist that developed Turners Station of Baltimore, MD! With that being said I come from four generations of passionate educators, entrepreneurs, activists, and philanthropists… it’s no wonder why youth and community development are my first love!

With 15 years of experience in youth development, I apply my research from the education sector, cognitive and behavioral psychology, and adolescent development to create a unique, fun interactive learning environment to engage children. I love what I do; witnessing laughter, chosen learning, and growth from children are my inspiration. I feel as if youth camp experiences needed to be redefined. Camp should be the ultimate “Can’t-Wait” experience full of enlightenment, community, and extraordinary fun!

As the Owner of Camps by KT, I strive to educate and nurture children to become well-rounded individuals through educational, and fun hands-on experiences that cultivate, and inspire creativity. I am on a mission to empower children and teenagers to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally so that they may achieve their version of success; one camp week at a time!

Kellie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

You’ve got to experience it to believe it! We have been providing innovative, and fun day camps since 2007! Proudly serving locations in Houston, TX, and Greenville, SC!

Camps by KT is an engaging youth day camp program designed for children to learn in a fun, and inspirational way. We have curated a well-rounded program that allows youth to grow, bond, and go through a self-discovery journey. At Camps by KT, we are all about having fun, new experiences, community, laughter, and educational fun.

Camps by KT offer Empowerment, Public Speaking, Arts, Science, Engineering, Culinary, Physical Activity, and of course FUN, FUN, and FUN! Knowing the importance of our youth’s understanding of the many elements that the world has to offer, we have decided to create a program that is not only fun but also a powerful movement of awareness for our youth. Each entity of Camps by KT has been curated by professionals in each field. We inspire little minds to do BIG things with unique experiences, positive influence, and motivation!

We strive to equip youth with diverse skills that empower them to navigate life’s unchartered territories and thrive. Another amazing contribution of Camps by KT is the Teen Leadership programs that we host. We provide teens with mentorship, leadership opportunities, and so much more. It is very refreshing for Camps by KT to be a part of the growth of our youth!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Prepare for the long haul, the rise and fall, and let neither define your sense of self; is what I always remind myself whenever struggle presents itself.

Camps by KT started with only eight campers; small but mighty. We remained resilient providing quality and excellence. “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe. With that mindset, Camps by KT grew, one camp week at a time!

I have realized that you constantly have to put yourself in your camper’s, family’s, and staff’s shoes in order to provide the best experience.

“There is no such thing as a self-made man. You will reach your goals only with the help of others.” – George Shinn. I have been fortunate to have a community of families, friends, and staff that greatly support Camps by KT. It has taken a village to expand the “Camps by KT” brand. For that, I am overwhelmingly thankful! Attorney and consultant LaMonica Love of The Love Law Group and Consulting Services broadened my perspective on the potential of Camps by KT. With her guidance, I realized the growth opportunities! With that being said there have been many moments of resilience being displayed; however with me maintaining the confidence, and values of Camps by KT, and having a support system I have been able to navigate through the challenges, and struggles gracefully.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

I have an absolute love for books. I consider myself to be a bibliophile! I am currently reading “Systematic Magic” by Vance Morris. This book has been extremely helpful as to provide what strategies could be used to expand my business.

The book “The Richest Man in Babylon” by George Samuel Clason has been passed down through generations in my family. We are told to read it, learn from it, and follow it. This book is embedded in my memory, always in reference whenever decisions are made.

I often listen to informative videos on YouTube that reference growth in the summer camp market. Always learning and growing.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.CampsbyKT.com
• Instagram: @campsbykt
• Facebook: @campsbykt
• Linkedin: @campsbykt
• Twitter: @campsbykt
• Youtube: @campsbykt

Image Credits
Sasha Q Photography