Meet Karena Atkinson | Creative Director, Speaker, Poet, Youth Mentor and Activist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Karena Atkinson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karena, is there something you believe many others might not?
There’s alot of criticism given to people who have a STORY! Things I’ve heard: “You haven’t lived long enough, just you wait” but their experiences has given them wisdom that somehow your age has not.

“How are you a life coach and you’ve barely lived?” But you’re in your 50s just now finding your purpose.

“You haven’t been married long enough to give advice!” But you’re in your 15th year of marriage and just now learning how to apologize.

“Don’t take advice from single people!” But you’re in a dead relationship tolerating things that single person would never.

This is not to judge anyone for who they are, or where they are. And yes, there is a time and a season to tell your story. And some credibility does come with time! But some of the best stories come from the time a person is born, and who are we to put a limit on someone else’s wisdom?

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
What sets me apart from others is that I dare to be different. There are so many trends and points of comparison in this day and age, especially within Social Media. I stay true to who I am and who God has called me to be. There are so many things to learn and try, but ultimately, God’s plan for me is the plan that will always work best. I am most proud of pushing past fear and self doubt. Taking a leap of faith and experiencing real peace and joy is priceless. Recently, I took on a new role as a Political Campaign Manager. I was hesitant at first because “Why me?”….Am I sure I can do this?” But I was reminded of all the work I had done in the community and what I learned along the way and said, “You know what… why not me!” I also became a Social Media Manager and dived even further into Media, Marketing and Management. I recently also helped launch The Reel Reckless Podcast. There have been several challenges along the way. I had to pick myself up and GROW UP! I had to get better with time management and knew that I could not afford to give anything less than my best. I am still a work in progress and have learned to give myself grace. I have learned that greatness is a decision. You get to decide how great you are and how much greater you can be. I also learned that no one is coming to save you until you save yourself. The greatest thing I could have ever done throughout all of this is HEAL; heal my inner child, heal from the past mistakes and disappointment and choose to live… FEARLESSLY.

Alright, so let’s jump right in! The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there a person, group, organization, book, etc. that you want to dedicate your shoutout to? Who else deserves a little credit and recognition in your story?  
One of the most influential factors in my life has been NCNW: The National Council of Negro Women. I joined Fall of 2014 and was officially inducted Spring of 2015 on the campus of The University of North Carolina at Pembroke. The organization’s mission is to Lead, Develop and Advocate for African American women and their families. I found myself surrounded by sisters that would become lifelong friends. Together, we learned how to become leaders, fundraise, be accountable, agree and disagree as well as serve our community. I witnessed young women truly exemplify what it means to have “all hands on deck”. We laughed, cried, made memories, hosted events, failed and even trailblazed together. This space allowed me to bloom and find my voice and strength. I left high school the overlooked, quiet girl that no one took seriously, but by my Junior year of college, I became a powerhouse in the making. I was selected to be President of our section at UNCP my senior year. I learned how in what way I lead well and even where I lack. I owe the legacy of our Founder, Dr. Mary Mcleod Bethune so much. What she envisioned 88 years ago found its way to a young college girl from the country who needed something to push her forward. I am proud to say that I am still a member of this organization today and still friends with some of the amazing sisters I shared this time with. They too have encouraged, and celebrated me even to this very day.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_renaspeaks/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karena-atkinson-speaks/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karena.atkinson2/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4Av7p0A0-hLbneQE_udloA

Image Credits
Kreativ Works Imagery Still Shot Artistry Bakari Dashawn Enterprises Felicia Kelly International