OUR FOUNDER
The inspiration behind this organization came to me after applying to my dream school in 2012 to obtain my Master's Degree in Graphic Design, getting accepted and having no way of paying for it! I started this program to assist other creatives who find themselves in the same situation.
came about after working with at risk youth and teaching them the skills I had obtained. They just need the space and people around who care enough to listen to their dreams, and help bring them to life. I was also inspired by a colleague who helped me see my purpose was bigger than my circumstance and gave me an opportunity to sit at a table of creators who I'd never fathom sitting in front of. I want to give back in the same way by offering the students these same types of opportunities.
MY STORY
Born in Brooklyn, NY and raised by her grandparents, Keia grew up in the early 80's. She went to New York City Public Schools until moving to North Carolina to complete her last year of High School. Keia attended St. Augustine's College, now University, and obtained her Bachelor's of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. Keia began teaching herself graphic design in 2006, and it became more than just a hobby, she mastered this skill and began teaching others what she had learned.
Soon after graduating from college in 2007, she moved to Maryland where she began working for an Afro-Centric charter school as one of their second grade teachers. She found she had a tremendous love for teaching, just not full time.
Keia has also been and instructor for Community Tech, LLC in Washington, DC, as their graphic design instructor for an after-school program in the Anacostia neighborhood. During her time at Community Tech, she has taught Graphic Design for DC's DYRS (Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services) Program, where she taught at risk youth who were connected in some way to the juvenile justice system. She worked with DYRS for a total of 10 years as their digital arts instructor. She is considered to be a lifetime employee of Community Tech, LLC.
For the past 8 years, Keia has been a SSVF Case Manager helping homeless veterans find permanent housing in DC, Maryland and Virginia, and now the Metro Atlanta area. Keia is also the owner of Keia Latrice Design Studio, a graphic design firm and academy, where she helps small businesses bring their ideas into fruition with branding and marketing strategies.
In her spare time she likes to paint, craft, garden, watch Edwardian and Victorian era movies and tv shows, and she loves to cook. She shares her home in Clayton County Georgia with her two daughters, Khaliya and Samara who are also very creative, as they love to paint and draw anime.
