Hometown Shero: Meet Kamilah J. Perkins
Tell us about your current effort to empower the next generation:
I created the Thrive University Coloring Book Series to spark an early conversation about college and career for elementary-age students. I had the idea over 15 years ago and it is an amazing fun book with two themes, Homecoming Game, and College Tour Field Trip. Exposing elementary students to college at an early age can significantly impact their academic aspirations and future opportunities. By introducing them to the concept of higher education, children can begin to visualize themselves attending college, setting ambitious goals, and working diligently to achieve them. Additionally, early exposure fosters a college-going culture within families and communities, breaking down barriers and increasing access to higher education for underrepresented groups. For the past 20 years, I have been working to provide students with valuable information about the college application process, financial aid options, and potential career paths, empowering them to make informed decisions about preparing for their purpose and future.
In what ways has being a mother influenced your approach to leadership and authorship?
I love being Avery’s mom. I’ve worked in Education for over 25 years, so I have been a mother figure to many. But the relationship that I have with my son, Avery, is incomparable. Being a mom motivates me to be a better person and entrepreneur for Avery. Mompreneur life offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards. Balancing the demands of running a business with the joys of motherhood requires creativity, resilience, and time management skills. However, the ability to pursue one's passions while also being present for the precious moments with your kid is very rewarding. As an entrepreneur, you have the flexibility to create your schedule, allowing you to prioritize family time, sports activities, and school PTA. Recently, I have been doing a lot of events, promoting the Thrive University Coloring Book, and Avery has been my assistant. I love seeing him talk to potential customers and invite youth over to our table. I want him to see me pursuing my purpose so that he understands what that looks like as he discovers his own.
How do you integrate your family values into your business model and decision-making processes?
First, I think you have to understand that your values should show up in every area of life. I want to be authentic in every area of my life, a woman of my word, and have a reputation for producing high-quality services and products.
What advice would you give to other mompreneurs who may feel overwhelmed?
Breathe! Pray and call a Girlfriend. I am passionate about what I do and I know that passion is because I know God’s purpose for my life is to help youth discover theirs. But there are times when I am just doing “the most” and we need a friend to give a reality check and encourage us. I would advise moms to forecast. Look at your quarters, months, and weeks and plan for the balance you want. We have to stop trying to be super “everything” and sometimes just BE. I have learned in the past year I get more done when I outsource and focus on the things only I can do. My brain makes everything a project. I need to see ideation and completion and then move to the next project. A little downtime between big projects is a must and LADIES we have to stop and PLAY weekly. I learned this at a retreat two years ago. Our brains need play for cognitive development and we just need to have fun. This is why I love the Double Dutch Club phenomenon. If you feel overwhelmed take some things off your plate and consider trying therapy.
Share what is next for you in 2024 and how readers can support you:
I want to work with 1000 freshmen this upcoming school year, launching Thrive University Club as an afterschool or weekend program. The program is designed to help students explore their talents, careers, and colleges from 9th - 11th grades so they will be prepared and know their purpose before applying to college. My nonprofit the Village Foundation Fund (villagefoundationfund.org) will fund & award $50,000 in scholarships to students. I am also publishing my first Children’s book this fall. It’s a beautiful story about two brothers’ relationship and college transition. I am excited about all the great things coming this year.
You can purchase the book for your child or your summer program at kamilahjperkins.com and follow me on social media to stay up to date on IG @kamilahjp or linkedin.com/in/kamilahjperkins.
