Kymia Collins

"If I could describe my future in 3 words it would be progressive, unlimited and international!"

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do?

A. Greetings! My name is Kymia Jacquelyn Collins and I am Contestant Green! I am currently attending the historic North Carolina Central University, majoring in Mass Communications with a concentration in Journalism. While also being a full time student, I am also the owner of my own Graphic Design business, “Graphics by KJ”!

Q. How did you feel to be Miss HBCU Teen Contestant?

A. Simply put, it felt surreal. I often look back and reflect on how I was when I began, and how much personal development was gained from the pageant in the end. To say I was nervous was an understatement, I was terrified. I felt as though I wasn’t good enough, I lacked talent, and I wasn’t “pretty” enough for a pageant. The negativity was soon outweighed by the positive as I began to gain confidence and became the best version of myself, all due to the pageant.

Q. How did you get into graphic designs?

A. Growing up, I was always interested in computers and the way that a simple computer could develop anything from a painting to an application that can keep track of your sleep. My passion for graphic design developed as a way to channel my creativity and create art that could be enjoyed by others. Starting my own graphic design business just made sense!

Q. Let’s talk about the college you are attending and what you are majoring in?

A. I am currently a freshman at the historic North Carolina State University, majoring in Mass Communications with a concentration in journalism.

Q. Who do you look up to for inspiration or mentorship?

A. I am constantly inspired by @TGtheMogul, her dedication, tenacity, and creativity is something that can leave any person in awe. She gives me the motivation to continue my graphic design business through college and to take it as far as I can! Other honorable mentions include both the late Maya Angelou and Alice Walker, both women have dedicated their lives to establishing eminent change within the black community and beyond. Meeting Alice Walker was an unforgettable experience that often makes me sit back and think of all the amazing accomplishments that can be made with dedication and hard work.

Q. Tell us some goals you are working on accomplishing?

A. Currently, I am working on several short-term goals such as graduating, expanding my graphic business, travelling, and getting involved in my community. Some long-term goals that I am working on accomplishing are becoming an international journalist, documenting and travelling too different parts of the world, and constantly working on myself!

Q. What advice would you give to the next generation of teen leaders?

A. If I could give any advice to the next generation of teen leaders it would be to invest in yourself and network, network, network. Allow yourself to make connections with those in your community, and establish a foundation to build from. Doing these things will result in the fundamentals for your own personal success.

Q. Are you working on any projects?

A. At the moment, I’m not working on any projects. As I begin establishing a name for myself in my new community in North Carolina, I do want to host community based events that would allow the community to connect and mingle!

Q. How would you describe your future in 3 words?

A. If I could describe my future in 3 words it would be progressive, unlimited, and international!

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. To all the readers, you can follow me @graphics_bykj on Instagram or visit my website graphicsbykj.org.