We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kiana Renee a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Kiana, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I would say I have more peace on being in control with the direction I want to take in my life not just as a creative but as an individual. I do ponder on the idea of having a regular job for more stability and mental security but the thought of giving someone else my time and energy when I can pour it into my craft always outweighs. However, the last time I had a thought was during the time I had just started getting booked for features that weren’t paid. During this time I also didn’t have a job and the bookings weren’t always local. I had to price for gas and food and with little to no money coming in, had me questioning was it worth it. I started to see the hustle in me come out, many times I would try to sell five books a show just so that I could buy some food and put gas in my car. Something that I loved doing became a very lonely thing. I can candidly say I didn’t like that side of starting out and I took a step back to refocus on my passion and what it is I want to do professionally. However, what keeps me going is the idea of my message getting across to millions of people who can change their lives through my poetry. That is worth all the trying times that come with this journey.

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 am Kiana Renee also known as Craziiki, a dynamic spoken word artist who captivates audiences with a unique blend of thought-provoking poetry and powerful stage presence. Specializing in themes of philosophy, emotions, and both personal and social intellect, Drawing inspiration from the great philosophers and the intricate tapestry of human emotions, I weave poetic narratives that challenge, inspire, and resonate deeply with listeners. With each performance, I invite audiences to embark on a journey of reflection and introspection, encouraging a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them, publishing two poetry books “Mature Emotions” and “Mature Actions” in my “Mature” trilogy.
I have been honored to grace the stages of prestigious poetry slams and spoken word festivals, including Black Girl Art Show.
Committed to using poetry as a tool for social change, I actively participate in workshops and community events that promote literacy and personal expression among diverse groups.
Through my poetry, I seek to unravel the mysteries of our inner worlds and the society we inhabit. I believe in the transformative power of words and strive to connect with audiences on a level that transcends the superficial, fostering a shared sense of understanding and enlightenment.
Whether performing on stage or engaging in thoughtful dialogue, I hope to continue to push the boundaries of spoken word, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to witness their artistry.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Navigating the world of social media can be quite challenging, especially when trying to establish a presence within a specific niche like poetry. When I first began, I quickly realized the importance of engaging with the local community. Attending local open mic nights became a crucial step for me. By participating in these events, I was able to connect with fellow poets and enthusiasts, which not only enriched my own experience but also provided content to share on my social media platforms.
To effectively reach a wider audience, I focused on using strategic SEO keywords and relevant hashtags. This approach allowed me to tailor my content to resonate with the poetry community online while expanding my reach to potential followers who share similar interests. By integrating these practices, I successfully cultivated a social media presence that authentically reflects my passion for poetry and connects me with a broader audience.
My advice to anyone wanting to build their social media platform, is to have fun and be yourself about it. The pressures of social media can effect our motivation to post regularly but by taking it a step at a time and keeping it authentic. We can fuel our passions to make who we are a brand.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

I believe society can better support creatives by embracing all forms of art as powerful tools for messaging and building community. Art has the unique ability to transcend barriers and communicate universal truths, making it an essential component of societal growth and understanding. By integrating art into public spaces, educational systems, and cultural initiatives, we can foster a more inclusive and vibrant community that values diverse perspectives. Additionally, I see tremendous potential in hiring more freelancers within the workforce to enhance the authenticity and creativity of brands and corporations. Freelancers bring fresh, innovative ideas and a wealth of diverse experiences that can invigorate businesses and projects, enabling them to resonate more deeply with varied audiences. By creating more opportunities for creative professionals to collaborate across industries, society can cultivate a thriving ecosystem where creativity is not just supported but celebrated as a cornerstone of progress and connection.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://theekianarenee.net
• Instagram: @craziiki
• Other: https://a.co/d/3Az5Vco