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RESPECT.had the opportunity to speak with a someone contributing great things to her community by the name of Kela Hall. Kela is the CEO of KD Hall Communications and Foundation, currently located in The Pacific Northwest Region of the country. KD Hall Communications is an organization centered on being the lead entity to drive events forward through government, education, and small organizations.
She talks about the inspiration behind The KD Hall Foundation and how it was started when Kela was in college. Kela started an organization named “Sisters of Success” it was not a non-profit organization because it was started as a college paid program. The organization was all about providing equity for women, as well as, providing real-world experience to college, which is fundamentally what the KD Hall Foundation stands for currently. The reason she wanted to set out an organization for her and fellow classmates was because when Kela attended college back in 2005. She was involved in numerous volunteer internships and realized that if there was compensation for her work instead of looking for other paid opportunities, she would have more time to finish school assignments.
The organization participates in a lot of social awareness events such as theWomen on the Riseis a training and networking conference. That helps prepare women and men to prepare for job interviews, brand management, and community issues. KD Hall Communication, wants women in the community to know their worth in the workspace and being comfortable asking for equal wages for their time and talents.
Kela Hall speaks about some of the plans she and her team have for 2017 for example, speaking engagements already being scheduled and even touches their latest visit to The White House in Washington DC, and when we can expect the next Women On The Rise Conference. Kela’s interview with RESPECT. can be read below in its entirety.
RESPECT.: Will you be participating in any community food or clothes drives?
In 2017, we will not be participating as our focus entirely on the women and young girls, rising into leadership positions in the community.
We do have community service projects that are geared more towards mentoring.
RESPECT.: Can you describe your recent visit to The White House?
It was incredible! I still get chills when I scan the email. Some people are seriously connected; I didn’t believe I deserved to be in the room at first. I was no one’s dog in the scrap, no major connections. I am Kela Hall, a CEO of a communication firm. What in the heck am I doing in the White House as an invited guest, I still don’t know to this day who made me. I was sitting amongst the leaders across NASA, legends like the first African-American female to go to space Mae Jamison to meeting Charlie Bolden of NASA. It was unreal – President Obama chief of staff. It was a great time. I also had the opportunity to sit in on a private conference call With President Barack Obama. Now that was surreal and in that moment I felt like the hard work truly paid off.
RESPECT.: What’s next for KD Hall Communications heading into 2017?
KD Hall is growing and expanding globally! I am looking forward to working with companies on strategies for public relations and marketing. We also grew our training business as well. We brought on another curriculum developer. We are excited about training and moving our training to reach organizations globally.
RESPECT.: Who are some of the companies you are currently working with for the next “Women on The Rise Conference”?
We are still developing and deepening sponsors from last year. Denali credit union, University of Phoenix, Aviation High school, and several others, we will release names as they sign on others we will release names as they sign on
RESPECT.: What are some of the events that you will be a part of that involves the community and universities in the Seattle Metroplex?
Man this year is busy! I am already booked up through April! Speaking engagements in Mercer Island, Seattle, and Bellevue. I am working on a TEDx series, we are holding 3 signature events for women’s history month in March.
Of course, season 2 women on the rise will happen on my 35th birthday. Can’t wait! I think it is symbolic! We plan to release a huge project Sept 15-16.
RESPECT.: How does the organization identify communities or individuals to work with?
Our focus is on the workforce – that is where we are subject matter experts. Other events come out of that, but you can expect KD Hall to remain a leader in the community through our foundation.
RESPECT.: What are the main obstacles that inhibit the fulfillment of your mission?
We are seeking investors the main obstacle is financial resources. Our product is valuable it’s the minds of our future workforce. However, with the proper resources, anything is possible. Last year we learned on the fly. This year we have more experience and more resources.
RESPECT.: How are you planning to overcome them?
Funding! Everyone needs help when it comes to funding. This takes contacts, resources and more.
KD hall supports the workforce by providing cutting edge training, workshops and case studies. We also provide event producing and public relations.
RESPECT.: What are some of the goals you are trying to achieve by the end of 2017?
No goals this year! I have a theme for this year! Being an impact player and sharpening our blade for 2017 in all areas of our business and nonprofit.