Today we’d like to introduce you to Keyla Ire

Hi Keyla, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. My name is Keyla, and I am an inclusive disabled model, as well as the owner of a nonprofit and a small business. My journey to these roles began 11 years ago when I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, a chronic illness, known as ulcerative colitis (IBD).

At the time of my diagnosis, I was working in the medical field and studying to become a physician assistant. Despite my efforts to balance work, studies, and motherhood, my health deteriorated, and I was unable to achieve my goals. This led to numerous surgeries and a necessary focus on my health and recovery due to the severity of my IBD and the failure of all available medications.

Over the past four years, I dedicated myself to finding ways to heal, grow, enjoy life, and advocate for others facing similar challenges. Sharing my story on social media connected me with many people, including a friend in the UK who also has IBD. She revealed that she used to work for Vogue UK and train models, and she offered to help me start a modeling career.

With newfound courage and confidence from sharing my story, I began working with various organizations, advocating for better healthcare for the disabled and chronically ill with our legislators. This advocacy work inspired me to envision something bigger. When my now 14-year-old son was diagnosed with the same chronic illness at age 11, it fueled my drive to make a difference.

As a result, Keyla Ire LLC and Connecting Pieces Inc. were born. These ventures reflect my commitment to advocacy and support for those with chronic illnesses and disabilities. I haven’t looked back since, and I’m proud of the work I do to help our community.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

While my journey has been incredibly rewarding, it hasn’t been a smooth road. Being diagnosed eleven years ago, with ulcerative colitis, marked a significant turning point in my life. Managing a chronic illness and undergoing numerous surgeries took a substantial toll on my physical and emotional well-being. Failing all available medications meant I had to navigate constant pain, an ostomy, and uncertainty about my health and future.
Balancing these responsibilities while dealing with a debilitating illness was incredibly challenging. Eventually, I had to make the difficult decision to step back from my career aspirations to focus on my health. Accepting that I couldn’t continue on my original career path was a major setback. It has required a significant shift in mindset to redefine my goals and find new ways to contribute meaningfully, which has sometimes been daunting and disheartening.
Transitioning into new roles as a model, nonprofit founder, and small business owner involved a steep learning curve. Building these ventures from the ground up required resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to step out of my comfort zone. Advocating for improved healthcare and support for the disabled and chronically ill often feels like an uphill battle. Raising awareness and pushing for change has required persistence and navigating bureaucratic challenges, which is often frustrating.
My son’s diagnosis with the same chronic illness added another layer of complexity. Managing his health needs while continuing my advocacy and business efforts is challenging but also provides powerful motivation for me to keep going. Despite these struggles, each challenge has taught me valuable lessons and strengthened my resolve. These experiences have shaped who I am today and driven my passion for advocacy and supporting others in similar situations.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

I’d love to share more about my work and what drives me.
I specialize in inclusive and disabled modeling, public speaking, and advocacy. Specifically, working to challenge and change the conventional beauty standards in the fashion industry. My work aims to promote diversity and representation for individuals with disabilities, showcasing that beauty comes in all forms. I founded Connecting Pieces Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with chronic illnesses, ostomies, and disabilities. We provide resources, advocacy, and a community for those navigating similar challenges. Our mission is to improve healthcare access and provide support and resources to those in the community who are impacted by health disparities.
I also run Keyla Ire LLC, a business that focuses on creating public service announcements, fashion editorials, creative works, public speaking, modeling, and mental health support. Our services cater to the needs of the disabled and chronically ill community as well as the fashion and creative space.

Achievements and Pride:
I am incredibly proud of my advocacy work. Through Connecting Pieces Inc., I have successfully lobbied for improved healthcare policies and increased support for disabled individuals. Our efforts have led to tangible changes in healthcare legislation, benefiting countless people in our community.
In my modeling career, I have broken barriers and paved the way for greater inclusion in the fashion industry. Being featured in prominent campaigns and publications has allowed me to use my platform to raise awareness and inspire others.
Creating a supportive and empowering community through my nonprofit seeing the positive impact on individuals’ lives and knowing that my work helps others feel seen, heard, and valued is immensely rewarding.

What Sets Me Apart?
What sets me apart is my personal journey with chronic illness and disability. My lived experiences provide me with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those in similar situations. This empathy drives my commitment to advocacy and support.
My ability to adapt and persevere through significant health challenges has equipped me with resilience and determination. I bring this strength to all my endeavors, continuously striving to overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. I am dedicated to creating a more inclusive and accepting world. Whether through my modeling work, nonprofit efforts, or business ventures, my vision is to foster inclusivity and representation. I believe that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and respected, regardless of their abilities or health status.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?

The Covid-19 crisis has taught me several important lessons, particularly about the healthcare system and the importance of accessibility.
The pandemic underscored the urgent need for improvements in our healthcare system. It highlighted the gaps and deficiencies that must be addressed to ensure better care for everyone, especially the disabled and chronic illness communities.
I learned that achieving accessibility is possible for the disabled and chronically ill. The crisis showed us that when we come together and work cohesively, we can overcome barriers and make significant strides toward a more inclusive and supportive environment.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.connectingpcs.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keyla.ic/?hl=en
• Other: email: [email protected]

Image Credits
BoriiShoots, Mingo’s Photos, DeniseGagnon Photography