Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Demitrea Kelley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Demitrea, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
Growing up without much, the values instilled in me by my mother have been instrumental in my development. Her constant reminders to be humble and to cultivate a good personality despite our circumstances played a crucial role in shaping my character. These early lessons in humility and the importance of a positive attitude laid the foundation for my resilience and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. This upbringing not only enhanced my self-esteem but also guided me in appreciating the more profound aspects of my achievements and experiences.
My journey towards building confidence and self-esteem is deeply rooted in my diverse life experiences. Participating in Miss Black USA was a transformative experience that enhanced my self-confidence and public presence. It provided a platform for me to embrace and showcase my identity, fostering a deeper sense of self-worth. Additionally, venturing into modeling opened new avenues for self-expression and creativity, allowing me to connect with diverse audiences. These experiences, combined with my academic pursuits and leadership roles, have collectively shaped my ability to adapt, lead with conviction, and engage with communities meaningfully. My role in health equity and advocacy work, in particular, has been fulfilling, driving a sense of purpose and achievement. Networking and affiliations with prestigious organizations further reinforced my professional identity, affirming my accomplishments and being Confident in my abilities.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
My professional journey is a unique blend of legal expertise, advocacy, and a deep commitment to public health and diversity. As a Juris Doctor candidate at Mitchell Hamline School of Law, I’m gearing up to graduate in May 2026, with a focus on integrating my legal education with my passion for public health. My background includes two master’s degrees in healthcare administration and business administration from Indiana Wesleyan University, along with an Equity and Diversity Certificate from the University of Minnesota.
Professionally, I’ve held significant roles such as the Navigator Coalition Director at Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid and the Diversity Outreach Advocate at Minnesota Disability Law Center. My experience as a Patient Advocate at Martin Center Sickle Cell Initiative deeply resonates with my personal mission. I’m also a co-founder of the Mikayla Sarai Foundation for Sickle Cell, which underscores my dedication to health equity, especially for those impacted by Sickle Cell Disease.
My journey in the Miss Black USA Pageant Foundation has not only been a platform for my advocacy but also a means to empower and inspire others. What excites me most about my career is the opportunity to blend my legal expertise with my advocacy for health equity and diversity. It’s a path that allows me to make a tangible impact in communities, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by those with Sickle Cell Disease.
Regarding new developments, I am continuously involved in various initiatives and events that promote health, diversity, and community engagement. These include educational programs, advocacy campaigns, and community outreach efforts that further the cause of health equity and empower those affected by health disparities. Through these endeavors, I aim to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Throughout my journey, the qualities of advocacy, resilience, and passion have been my guiding lights. Advocacy is more than just speaking up; it’s about deeply understanding and feeling the struggles of others and fighting tirelessly for their cause. Resilience has been my backbone, teaching me that every setback is a setup for a comeback, inspiring me to rise stronger each time. And passion, that’s the magic ingredient. It’s the fire in my heart for justice and equality in healthcare that has kept me going, even when the road got tough. To the young reader, know that these qualities are your superpowers. Embrace them, nurture them, and watch how they transform not just your journey, but the lives of those you touch.
Do you think it’s better to go all in on our strengths or to try to be more well-rounded by investing effort on improving areas you aren’t as strong in?
In my experience, the balance between honing strengths and improving weaknesses is crucial. I’ve learned that leveraging my strengths, such as advocacy and empathy, can create a strong foundation for success. However, addressing areas where I’m not as strong has also been vital. For instance, early in my journey, I found certain aspects of public speaking challenging. By dedicating time to improve this skill, I enhanced my ability to effectively advocate for health equity.
This approach creates a well-rounded skill set, enabling me to adapt to different challenges and environments. I believe in maximizing your strengths, as they are your unique assets, but also in not neglecting your weaknesses, as they offer opportunities for growth and learning. This dual focus has been a key part of my personal and professional development.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.demitrea.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/demitrea
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/demitreakelley
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/demitreakelley
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/demitreakelley
Image Credits
All Copyrights Demitrea Kelley
