Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Keisha Bowden. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Keisha, thanks for joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

Let me paint a picture:

As it pertains to race, ethnicity, and stress on a global measure combining exposure to stressors in five domains (occupation, finances, relationships, racial bias, and violence), Blacks, Hispanics, and Asians reported higher levels of stress than Whites.

When the course of depression is considered, depression in African Americans persists for longer duration. In fact, a 2023 Gallup U.S. poll found that lifetime depression rates among Black and Hispanic adults have surpassed those of White respondents.

Now that the picture has been painted, the question of “How do we solve it?” surfaces. This is a nationwide issue, but I believe that we’ll begin to make a dent in this domestic crisis by tackling it head-on through a micro level of strategies and execution. I decided to do my part by trying something unconventional in my local community in Charlotte, NC. I started a private social club for Black professionals of Charlotte, NC with one goal in mind: have FUN.

Many studies have shown that laughter is the best medicine. Positive, joyful, loving environments play a significant role in shifting the chemicals of the brain from negative energy to positive, thereby increasing endorphins, allowing the individual to feel a natural euphoric state. This naturally helps individuals who are struggling with depression and other mental health challenges.

What I found was incredible. Since launching Charlotte Luxe Tribe in September, 2023, members have shared incredible testimonies about how our private social club has helped them overcome many moments that would have otherwise proven difficult to get through. In Charlotte Luxe Tribe, we’ve created a community of joy, support, and great energy.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I have 20 years of marketing expertise. A little over half of those years were spent owning and operating a boutique marketing firm where I provided a suite of marketing and creative services. I also developed a program that helped aspiring entrepreneurs take their leap of faith. My career has allowed me to add value to individuals and organizations both domestic and international, across various industries, such as fashion, e-commerce, automotive, and financial services – to name a few. After 11 years of pouring out a labor of love for my company, I was ready for the next chapter, thus deciding to sunset my marketing agency. I was quickly recruited by PNC Bank where I serve as a Vice President leading communications and engagement for consumer credit card.

But that’s not why I’m here. Just last September, I decided to make a difference in my community by creating a private social club for like-minds in an effort to incorporate fun back into each member’s lives, thus offering a natural way to support mental health. This decision has significantly impacted lives in such a positive way, including my own. It gives me immense joy to see joy in others. I didn’t just build a social club, I built a community of love, support, and accountability. Members have gained business from each other, supported each other’s endeavors, have gone to the aid of those in need, and so much more.

Since launching Charlotte Luxe Tribe, I have a sense that I’m operating in my purpose. One of our members (a physician), has pulled me aside and told me “If you haven’t realized it, I’m here to tell you that you’re saving lives.” That, for me, was confirmation that no matter the challenges I might face to ensure the organization’s success, I must keep going.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

As a Generation X-er, I was taught that the American dream was to go to college, obtain a degree that would allow you to have a respectable career, get married, have children, then retire. I actually did all of the above (with the exception of retirement), yet, I was unfulfilled. I suddenly realized that I wasn’t a fan of status quo. I also realized that retirement is for you, not your children, nor their children. So then I wondered, how can I make a positive impact on this world (fulfillment), but also create generational wealth?

Sure, I made this discovery later in life, but it’s not too late. I’ve already begun working on the first part (positive impact), and have since started researching the second part (generational wealth). I haven’t figured it out yet, but I will.

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

Never tell me that I can’t achieve something, because I will prove you wrong.

I can give countless examples of this, but one that is near and dear to my heart is my journey to becoming a lovely lady of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. My university (Johnson & Wales University – Providence, RI campus) had a strong presence of Black Greek Letter Organizations, but it did not have AKAs. I didn’t come from a family of Greeks, so I didn’t have the pleasure of being inspired by these amazing organizations throughout my youth. By the time I got to college, I was truly this naive freshman. Grateful for the “Meet the Greeks” freshman night (as this sparked my curiosity), I met the awesome ladies of the other three organizations and learned of their history. I was in awe of all of their accomplishments, but neither resonated with me as an individual. Now, even more intrigued, I sought out the final organization I had yet to interact with. Since there wasn’t a presence on my campus, I navigated my way “up the street” to Brown University’s campus. This is where I was first introduced to Alpha Kappa Alpha. I was immediately blown away by their leadership, innovation, classy, and sophisticated presence. I was captivated; it resonated with my soul. But – their chapter was private to that specific institution.

Nevertheless, it was a journey I embarked on and hit a few walls in my undergraduate experience since there wasn’t a presence at my university. I felt discouraged, and was told that it just wasn’t going to happen. I graduated college with two degrees, but I still felt like something was missing. Two years later, I finally joined the land of Pink and Green through an amazing graduate chapter. Joining Alpha Kappa Alpha is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Had I given up, I wouldn’t have this prestigious network of phenomenal sisters all over the world. Here’s to 19 years of membership and a lifetime to go.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cltexclusive.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luxetribeclt/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555661395234
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keisha-bowden-a66a297/

Image Credits
Media Mike of EG Media Professionals