We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kweena few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Kween, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
One of the most defining risks I took was in deciding to step away from my comfort zone and start my own business. For years, I worked in environments where I was often the only Black person in the room, navigating systemic barriers to my success. I had big dreams and ideas, but I kept telling myself I should follow a more traditional route—something “safe” and “easy.” I even tried to fit into existing structures, working for others, in hopes of finding stability. But deep down, I knew that wasn’t where I was supposed to be.
The turning point came after years of dealing with mistreatment, discrimination, and a feeling of being silenced in spaces that didn’t understand my lived experiences. I realized that if I didn’t create something for myself—something authentic to my values and vision—I would continue to feel stuck. So, I took the plunge and launched my own ventures, including The Kween Company, a platform to amplify BIPOC businesses, and co-owning The Heels Academy, an inclusive dance organization. It was a huge risk because, at the time, I was leaving behind stability, and there was no guarantee that my efforts would pay off.
The decision was also driven by a desire to create spaces for marginalized voices, especially BIPOC women, to thrive. I wanted to support diversity in the beauty industry, pageantry, and the arts. This passion led to me becoming a 4x pageant sponsor and choreographer, creating initiatives like Beauty 2 the Streets, BIPOC Market, Black-Owned Market, and Black Barbie, which have empowered women and provided opportunities for small businesses. I’ve been privileged to organize events like Crowns and Crystals, a gala that celebrates the arts and culture, and the Solidarity March in support of Black Lives Matter.
These initiatives have been a transformative part of my journey. I saw firsthand how community engagement and activism could go hand-in-hand with business. I’ve also had the honor of working with over 140 different businesses across the region, helping to elevate the voices of those who often go unheard. Along the way, I’ve been recognized with awards, including winning the Canadian National Ms Pageant in 2023, which was a milestone that solidified my belief in the power of women supporting each other.
I won’t lie—it wasn’t easy. The financial risks were daunting, and there were many sleepless nights. But the rewards have been beyond worth it. My businesses have grown, and I’ve been able to create platforms where others can shine. Whether through pageant sponsorships, dance choreography, or community events, I’ve been able to blend my passion for the arts, community-building, and social justice work.
This journey has been deeply fulfilling, not only because I get to do what I love but because I’ve seen the impact of my work on the people around me. I know that the risk I took was necessary—it was the catalyst for everything I’ve built and continue to build today, helping me become a leader in both my community and the industries I’m passionate about.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m Kween, and my work is rooted in passion, community, and empowerment. I’ve always believed in the power of creativity and using my platform to uplift others—especially within the BIPOC community. My journey into my current line of work has been anything but traditional. For years, I navigated corporate spaces where I often felt isolated, dealing with discrimination and systemic barriers. Over time, I realized that the key to true fulfillment was not in following a traditional path but in creating something meaningful for myself and my community. That’s when I decided to take the risk of stepping out on my own and building businesses that reflect my values of authenticity, inclusion, and empowerment.
My primary work revolves around two main ventures: The Kween Company and The Heels Academy. Through The Kween Company, I create platforms for BIPOC businesses, women, and artists to showcase their talents, products, and services. I’ve helped elevate over 140 small businesses, specifically focusing on uplifting Black and Indigenous-owned businesses through initiatives such as the BIPOC Market, Beauty 2 the Streets, and Black-Owned Market. Through my work, I provide strategic support, event planning, and choreography services, all designed to create visibility and opportunities for underrepresented communities. We educate, entertain and enage through events.
The Heels Academy, which I co-own, is an inclusive dance organization where we teach everything from video dance performance to dance choreography for performers looking to build confidence and presence. We provide a safe and empowering space for individuals to hone their performance skills, whether they’re preparing for a pageant or simply looking to grow as a performer.
My background in pageantry also plays a huge role in the services I offer. As a 4x pageant sponsor and choreographer, I provide training and support for those who want to enter the pageant world, offering everything from ramp walk coaching to empowerment sessions. I help individuals build their confidence and own their space, whether it’s on stage or in their everyday lives.
What sets me apart is my holistic approach to empowerment. I don’t just teach people how to walk or perform; I help them embrace their full selves—confident, powerful, and ready to take on any stage. My work is centered around creating spaces where people can thrive authentically, and where they can feel supported, celebrated, and empowered. Whether it’s through pageant coaching, dance choreography, or my community initiatives, my goal is to build people up and give them the tools they need to succeed.
What I’m most proud of is the way my work has impacted the community. From hosting Crowns and Crystals, a magical gala celebrating arts, culture, and community, to organizing the Solidarity March for Black Lives Matter, I’ve always strived to create spaces where people feel heard and seen. I also take immense pride in my recognition as the Canadian National Ms Pageant titleholder in 2023. Winning this title was an incredible affirmation of my work and mission to empower women and marginalized communities.
For me, it’s not just about growing my business—it’s about building a legacy of resilience, empowerment, and community. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work is about more than just business. It’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change, one that leaves a lasting impact not just on the people I work with, but on the communities we create together. If you’re looking for a place where you can be your authentic self, where your ideas are celebrated, and where you’re supported every step of the way—whether in pageantry, performance, or business—I’m here for it. My brand is about uplifting those who have been historically overlooked and giving them the platform to shine.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
To best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem, society needs to prioritize both access and visibility. This means creating more opportunities for underrepresented groups to showcase their work, particularly BIPOC artists, as they are often excluded from mainstream platforms. Financial support is also crucial, whether through grants, sponsorships, or paid opportunities that allow creatives to focus on their craft without constantly worrying about making ends meet. Additionally, there needs to be a shift in how we value creativity—artists and creatives should be recognized as essential contributors to society, not just as luxury or niche individuals.
One of the most important ways society can support artists is by fostering a culture of collaboration over competition. This would allow for a more inclusive and supportive creative ecosystem where individuals can learn from each other, share resources, and grow together. Platforms for networking and mentorship should be accessible to help build relationships and provide guidance. Finally, institutions, businesses, and governments must invest in educational programs that nurture creativity from a young age, ensuring that future generations understand the value of art, culture, and the creative industries.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
A pivotal moment in my life and career came when I was diagnosed with a concussion, which forced me to pivot in ways I never expected. For years, I had been tirelessly building my businesses and community initiatives, fully immersed in pageantry, dance, and advocating for BIPOC issues. But my health started to deteriorate, and I found myself dealing with the effects of my concussion, which included brain fog, fatigue, and difficulty focusing. It was a major shift because I had always been someone who thrived on staying busy and pushing through challenges.
This health setback forced me to take a step back and re-evaluate my priorities. I had to learn how to slow down and listen to my body, something I had never truly done before. I also had to change how I approached my work, allowing for more balance and sustainability. The pivot wasn’t just about adjusting to my health—it became a catalyst for rethinking my business model and life goals. I started focusing more on building systems that allowed my work to continue running while I took the time to heal. I also integrated more advocacy into my work, particularly around health issues affecting women, especially BIPOC women, like concussions and endometriosis.
It was a humbling and transformative experience. The pivot taught me resilience in a new way. It reminded me that we can’t pour from an empty cup, and sometimes slowing down is the key to moving forward with greater strength. I now use my platform to talk about the importance of health, self-care, and advocating for underrepresented groups in healthcare. This pivot not only changed the way I approach my career but also deepened my commitment to helping others face their own struggles with health and well-being.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thekweencompany.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kween.of.kweenz/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kweenkaylachristyne
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kween-k-9607a0b6/
- Twitter: https://x.com/thekweencompany/status/1545071819220197378
Image Credits
@d3viphotography, @scottdionbrown, @honeyhousephotography