We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kamika Lynette Bell. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kamika Lynette below.
Kamika Lynette, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?
As I reflect on my leadership journey, the legacy I hope to leave behind is one deeply rooted in integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the success of others. My approach to leadership has never been about wielding authority or being in the spotlight but about empowering those around me to realize their full potential. I’ve always believed that true leadership is defined by how well we elevate others, helping them grow, achieve, and surpass their own expectations.
John Maxwell’s, Law of the Lid from The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership profoundly resonates with me. It teaches that leadership ability sets the ceiling on an individual’s effectiveness, but the ultimate measure of success isn’t about crossing the finish line first. Instead, it’s about ensuring that those you lead are equipped to surpass you. When someone reaches new heights, achieves more than you, or crosses the finish line before you, that’s when you know you’ve truly succeeded as a leader.
Leadership, to me, is not about personal achievement; it’s about creating an environment where others thrive. If, through my efforts, someone else reaches their highest potential, then I have fulfilled my purpose as a leader. This is the legacy I strive for—a legacy where my impact is seen not in my own accomplishments but in the success, growth, and victories of those I’ve been privileged to lead.
One of the greatest joys in my life has been watching others win—seeing the young women of Girls With Pearls blossom into confident, empowered individuals, and witnessing their families grow stronger as a result. The ripple effects of mentorship and guidance extend far beyond what we can see, reminding us that someone is always watching—whether it’s a child, a mentee, or even a stranger. My hope is that those who crossed my path learned the value of perseverance, integrity, and living with purpose.
My greatest legacy, however, is my son, who quietly observed the strength and resilience that shaped my life. In him, I see the lessons of quiet strength, leadership, and integrity taking root. It is my hope that he, too, will carry forth these values and continue to live a life that lifts others.
In the end, my life’s work, particularly through Girls With Pearls, has been about instilling in others the belief that they, too, are capable of greatness. Leadership, at its core, is about service—about giving others the tools, wisdom, and encouragement they need to thrive. As you continue on your journey, always remember: someone is watching, learning from your actions, and being shaped by your example. Lead with grace, live with integrity, and let your legacy be one that inspires others to pursue their dreams with courage and conviction.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Kamika Lynette Bell, born and raised in Chester, Pennsylvania. I am an entrepreneur, content creator, writer, educator, and a former pageant title holder who wears many hats—yet, at the heart of everything I do is a deep commitment to mentorship and service. From a young age, I was inspired by the world of pageantry and fashion, inspired by icons like Vanessa Williams, the first Black Miss America. This passion shaped much of my journey, but I also cultivated a love for education, community building, and empowering youth and families.
Journey and Entry into My Field: Growing up in Chester, I had the unique opportunity to experience both public and Catholic education, which laid a strong foundation for my academic and professional journey. I graduated cum laude from Springfield College in Massachusetts with a degree in Human Services, and later earned a Master’s degree in Education from Drexel University. Currently, I am pursuing a doctoral degree in Psychology at Liberty University, with a focus on Industrial/Organizational Psychology.
My passion for helping others has always been the driving force behind my career, which has spanned from teaching in classrooms to fostering leadership development in educational and organizational settings. In 2022, I had the honor of graduating from McKinsey & Company’s Black Leadership Academy Program, a program designed to empower and enhance the leadership and creative potential of emerging Black leaders. This experience has further honed my skills and deepened my commitment to creating positive change and empowering others to reach their full potential.
I got into pageantry as a young girl competing in talent shows, largely inspired by my family. My grandmother, Esther Bost, a devout christian, and grandmother, Sadie Everett, and my cousins were instrumental in encouraging me to pursue my dreams. Pageantry became a vehicle for me to express myself, gain confidence, and develop the skills necessary for leadership—skills I now share with the next generation.
Products and Services I Provide: As the founder of Catalyst for Change Inc., I’ve created several impactful programs. The most notable is Girls With Pearls (GWP), a mentorship initiative launched in 2012 that teaches young girls etiquette, leadership, and social skills, enabling them to navigate life with confidence and grace. This program isn’t just about social polish; it’s about empowering girls to develop a deep understanding of their worth and the ability to positively influence the world around them.
I provided a mentorship program, the Young Male Scholar (YMS) Program, which recognizes boys who excel academically and are actively involved in their communities. This program aims to inspire young men to pursue excellence, while celebrating their achievements and empowering them to become future leaders.
Additionally, I work in the field of educational technology and publishing, where I provide professional development services to school districts across the country. My goal is to elevate educational outcomes through innovation and leadership coaching for educators.
In the education sector, I work with school leaders and teachers to improve educational practices. Whether it’s helping districts adopt new technologies or implementing professional development strategies, I help educators enhance their leadership skills to better serve their students.
What Sets Me Apart: What sets me apart is my holistic approach to empowerment. I don’t focus on just one area; I work to build people up spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. My multi-disciplinary background allows me to approach mentorship, education, and even fashion from a broader perspective, connecting the dots between these different fields to create well-rounded solutions. Additionally, I believe in building relationships that last, so the work I do extends beyond quick fixes and creates long-term impact.
Another key differentiator is my international outreach. I’ve led global health study tours to places like Nicaragua and South Africa, giving high school students opportunities to learn in ways that broaden their worldview and build their leadership skills.
One of my most significant accomplishments is the celebration of the 10th anniversary of Girls With Pearls in 2022, a milestone that represents a decade of profound impact on the lives of young girls. The transformation I have witnessed in these girls—both in terms of personal growth and leadership development—has been extraordinary. The opportunity to guide and mentor them as they build confidence, refine their leadership abilities, and pursue their aspirations has been immensely fulfilling. This program’s success underscores the vital role that mentorship and structured support play in shaping the future of young women.
Equally meaningful is my involvement in pageantry, particularly through the Girls With Pearls initiative. At our 11th Annual Gala in 2023, I had the privilege of crowning queens from the organization, an event that highlights the importance of providing young girls with platforms for self-expression, personal development, and empowerment. Pageantry serves as a unique avenue for these girls to cultivate confidence, poise, and ambition, allowing them to showcase their talents and pursue their dreams in a public forum. These experiences not only elevate their self-esteem but also serve as a testament to the enduring impact of fostering opportunities for young girls to THRIVE and EXCEL.
I am particularly proud of receiving a Senatorial Commendation from United States Senator Christopher A. Coons. This recognition highlights my leadership and service within the community of Delaware, specifically through my work with Girls With Pearls and various other initiatives on both a local and global scale. The commendation serves as a testament to the impact of my efforts and commitment to fostering positive change and empowerment. It is an honor that reflects the success and reach of the programs I have been involved in and affirms my dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.
What I Want Potential Supporters/Followers to Know: What I want people to know about me and my brand is that Catalyst for Change Inc. is about more than just mentorship or education—it’s about inspiring transformation and empowering individuals to be the best version of themselves. Whether it’s young girls learning social skills, young men being honored for their academic excellence, or educators being coached on leadership, my goal is to help people realize their full potential.
I wish to convey to my followers and supporters that my dedication to effecting positive change is both profound and deeply personal. My work—whether it is focused on initiatives within the the beautiful state of Delaware, extends across the United States, or reaches into international missions and educational development—is guided by a sincere commitment to making a substantial and enduring impact.
My efforts are not merely professional pursuits but are driven by a core belief in the transformative potential of service. I strive to influence and uplift individuals, families, and communities in meaningful ways. This dedication to fostering positive change and empowering others is the cornerstone of the legacy I aim to establish. It is through these contributions that I seek to leave an indelible mark on the world, characterized by a legacy of service, impact, and positive transformation.
I am also excited to share that I am an upcoming author, with my book set to launch on October 1, 2024. This new chapter in my life will focus on sharing my experiences and insights in a way that inspires and empowers others.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
What has helped me build my reputation in the market is a foundation of integrity, authenticity, and consistency. Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I’ve always operated with this in mind, working tirelessly to build not only my brand but also to elevate others’ brands with sincerity and pure motives. My focus has always been on making people feel valued and respected in every interaction, which is key to establishing long-term trust and credibility.
Dr. Myles Munroe said it the best, “The purer the heart, the clearer the vision,” and I wholeheartedly believe my reputation has been shaped by that philosophy. Staying true to my values and maintaining a genuine commitment to helping others has given me clarity, allowing me to see opportunities for growth and service clearly. This clarity has not only shaped my leadership but has also allowed me to build strong, meaningful relationships—both within my organization and the wider community.
Having a clear and deep vision means being able to see beyond the noise of external opinions and expectations. It’s about staying grounded in what truly matters, and for me, that has always been rooted in faith. What truly makes a difference is not what others think of you, but what God thinks of you. His approval and guidance are what illuminate the path forward, enabling you to lead with purpose and integrity, regardless of the world’s perceptions
I deeply believe that people do business with those they trust and feel connected to. I’ve built my reputation by being consistent, fair, and true to my word. It’s not about how quickly you achieve success; it’s about how authentically you move through each phase. I don’t seek shortcuts, nor do I try to emulate or compete with others. Instead, I focus on my unique journey, confident that staying in my own lane and being true to myself is what sets me apart.
Comparison is a trap that can divert us from our unique paths. There is only one “YOU,” and no one can take that away. That belief has allowed me to navigate the business world with confidence, knowing that my unique blend of experiences, values, and vision sets me apart.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
When it came to funding my business, I took a leap of faith during a time of uncertainty. I vividly remember the day I secured the location for my Girls With Pearls studio. I had already been in business for over seven years, but during the pandemic, I felt a strong push to expand and create a physical space. It was a huge step, but I trusted that it was the right move. Yes, God provided!
I’ll never forget walking through the studio with my son, who was about 15 at the time. As we toured the space, he turned to me and said, “Mom, you really need to do something with this place.” That gave me the motivation I needed to get started. The studio was in need of a makeover, so I had the old carpet removed, installed new flooring, and painted the walls my favorite color, Tiffany Blue. The transformation was amazing, and it felt like the perfect space to bring the vision of Girls With Pearls to life.
During my time working in Educational Sales, I was fortunate to experience an exceptionally successful year, even amidst the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic. The commission I earned provided the opportunity to invest in my long-held vision, allowing me to finance the remodeling and establishment of my studio. This was not only a financial blessing but a pivotal step in actualizing a dream that had been years in the making.
A cornerstone of my journey was the unwavering support of my father, who, although no longer with me in person, remains an enduring presence in my life. He was one of my greatest advocates and took immense pride in my achievements. As a tangible expression of his belief in me, he gifted the stunning logo decor that now adorns the studio wall and outside window. His encouragement in 2021, “Kamika, don’t let anyone run you out or take what you’ve worked so hard to build,” resonates deeply with me to this day.
Although my father passed later that same year, I am profoundly grateful that he was able to witness the fruition of the studio—a space that symbolizes the culmination of hard work, resilience, and a shared dream. His legacy of support, wisdom, and love continues to guide me as I navigate both the challenges and triumphs of my professional and personal journey. In every endeavor, I carry
Beyond that, I worked extremely hard to build credibility and develop relationships in the years following. My focus was not only on growing the business but also on securing future funding. I started to reach out to donors and cultivate connections with people who believed in my mission. This allowed me to continue expanding the programs and initiatives of Girls With Pearls, and it reinforced my belief that when you stay committed to your vision and work with integrity, the right support will come.
Contact Info:
- Website: wwww.gwpearls.com and kamikalynette.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamika_lynette/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kamika.l.bell/
