We recently connected with Keva Smith and have shared our conversation below.

Keva, appreciate you joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

Growing up in The LeMoyne Gardens in the 90’s was always an adventure for me. Long walks and runs, brick walls, tall trees and green boxes to climb and more dirt than grass to wrestle in. If anyone got hurt, I’d try to help. There were more boys than girls so, picture me a little sandy haired girl out with no care in the world. Being rough with the fellas. Many would say rougher. All of the neighbors knew my name and they had no problem getting me together if I got out of order. The village was common then. From then, I can say that risk taking became a norm. This mentality took place in my studies and growing social experiences. Socially as a growing child, I took on the weight on wanting to be everyone’s friend. If you knew me then, I am sure you could agree. Kids were so mean but I wasn’t. So there was some good and some bad. Being teased was a way of communication and i really didn’t understand it. It was hard making friends that were like me, well keeping them. The risk taking mentality died a little and I found myself settling just trying to fit in. Middle School for me was a new venture. More activities, more clubs and last, more peers. I made some good choices and some not so good choices as children do right. But then the out of the home accountability came in. It came from some young adults at the time that did more than just their 9-5. They were real time, real life influencers that connected with me intentionally. They held challenging conversations with me, challenged me to think different, supported me where I lacked and that made me view life differently. Back then, they didn’t wear the name “mentor” and recognition really wasn’t warranted. The adventures for me weren’t challenging because I had the extra support like no other. So giving each Charm unwavering love and support is what I stand on. It worked for me and I see it working for our youth today. I often sit in awe of the expansion of this program within 24 months. Crowned, The Charm School is more than just the fun of practicing social graces, it’s a program that promotes, THE VILLAGE.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am Keva Smith, a millennial wife and mother. Born, made and raised in the bluff of Memphis, TN. Alumnus of The Lemoyne Owen College majoring in Criminal Justice and Sociology. The founder and Chief Executive Officer of Crowned, The Charm School, a public institution for young ladies that teaches social and appropriate graces, encouraging positive development and promoting community. I am apart of The Redeemed Empowerment Center under the leadership of Pastor Tara Crawford. (Check us out!) Actively a 16-year servicewoman and on the civilian side employees as a Certified Behavioral Interventionist.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

The purpose of Crowned is to cultivate aspiring women to protect their ethical standards first as sisters, to promote personal development and to exemplify the gift of service with confidence!

The initial vision for the program was to operate as a mentorship program. This vision expanded by the need of the parents and community. Keeping up with the girls outside of their participation within the program is how I foster brand loyalty.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Contact Info:

• Website: www.crownedincorporated.com
• Instagram: crowned_thecharmschool
• Facebook: crowned_thecharmschool