Instagram @kevvpowers Business @___andthings
Today we had the pleasure of interviewing Kevin Powers, a Sacramento native who has turned his passion for inspiring and empowering youth into a successful career as an author, barber, and co-creator of &Things. In this interview, we discuss Kevin's journey and the hardships he faced along the way, his inspiration for writing his children's book "Not Today Fear," and his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Q: Tell us about your journey and how you became who you are today?
Kevin: My journey consisted of playing football that led me to getting a full scholarship and transferring to Morehouse College where I graduated with a bachelors degree in English. After suffering two career-ending injuries, I had to find my identity. Going to Morehouse opened my eyes to seeing myself in a greater light. It showed me that there are people who look like me that change the world daily. Since then my mission has been to inspire and empower the youth to become the best versions of themselves. Also to remind them that when you have confidence, fear doesn’t exist.
Q: What inspired you to want to write a children's book?
Kevin: Honestly, I wrote "Not Today Fear" during a period of my life when I feared the unknown. I didn't know what was next for my life. I was faced with the uncertainty of discovering my true purpose, so I wrote a children's book to motivate young readers to never give up on themselves.
Q: You are someone who does a lot of different things. Tell us about some of your other businesses and ventures?
Kevin: I'm a Barber at The Rich Barber in West Hollywood where it's all about the experience. As your barber, my job is to get you "Chose with your mouth closed" whether it's from your dream job or your dream girl. Lol. I'm also the Co-Creator of &Things. We are a multidimensional collective out of Sacramento, CA set out to create new experiences, push boundaries and build community across music, culture, art, and technology. We plan on taking it to the next level this year. If you haven't been to our R&B activation called "sweet one" come pull up on us and enjoy yourself. It's a dope event. There's great music, beautiful women, and high-value men. You might even meet your SWEET ONE. Lol.
Q: What are some hardships you had to overcome to be an entrepreneur?
Kevin: There have been many hardships on the way to becoming an entrepreneur, but the biggest hardship that shaped who I am today was being homeless and sleeping in my car for several months while being in college. Although it was hard, it taught me a lot about myself. It showed me that I can do anything I put my mind to. Days I felt like giving up, I reminded myself that there's someone somewhere else in a worse position, and I was actually blessed. What made it even more significant was the fact that I could've gone home, but to me, that was quitting because I was chasing something greater.
Q: What was it like for you to be a part of "Day Party for the Homeless"?
Kevin: It was lovely. S/O Ray for having me. I got a chance to cut hair for the less fortunate. It was dope to be able to have conversations with them on a more personal level. Seeing them get up every day and continue to push through no matter their circumstances makes me appreciate where I am and what I have.
Q: Who are some people you are influenced by?
A: I’m influenced by my brother. To see where he’s at now and how much he’s grown in his journey to becoming a superstar inspires me, especially because we grew up under the same roof. It shows me that it’s possible for me as well. I just have to keep laying a brick each day
Q: What advice would you like to give to the people wanting to be where you are today?
A: I would say just do it. There will never be a perfect time. Just put your best foot forward and go all in. That way, you’ll never live with the regret of settling. Also, don't be afraid to take risks and embrace failure. Failure is just an opportunity to learn and grow, so don't let it discourage you. Keep pushing forward and stay true to yourself and your passions.
Q: Where do you see yourself being in 5 years?
A: In five years, I see myself being financially free, with all my business endeavors flourishing. I envision myself living a balanced life, where I can continue to inspire and empower others while enjoying the fruits of my labor. I'll be somewhere in the world, probably on a beach, sipping on a coconut, and toasting to life. Life is too short not to enjoy it, so I plan on living it to the fullest.
Kevin Powers is a true inspiration to those who want to pursue their passions and overcome their fears. His journey is a testament to the fact that with hard work, determination, and a positive mindset, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. He has shown that it's never too late to find your true purpose and chase your dreams. Through his various ventures and endeavors, he continues to inspire and empower the youth, reminding them that they are capable of greatness. We look forward to seeing where Kevin's journey takes him in the future and all the amazing things he has yet to accomplish.
nstagram @kevvpowers Business @___andthings