Khali Jackson shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Khali, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Who are you learning from right now?
Right now, I work as a paraprofessional supporting adults with disabilities, and honestly, I’ve learned just as much from my clients as they’ve learned from me. They constantly teach me about perseverance, patience, and empowerment. Working closely with this community has really opened my eyes, not only to the unique needs they have, but also to the many misconceptions that exist about their abilities and potential.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Khali and I’m a Millennial Mom of 3 . I am a Milwaukee-based creative, educator, and advocate with a passion for art, community, and storytelling. I currently work as a paraprofessional supporting adults with disabilities, a role that constantly reminds me of the power of patience, purpose, and perseverance. Outside of that, I’m the founder of several creative brands — including Notebook & Nurture, a hybrid home-schooling and affirmation-based learning brand for Black children, and Lili’s Art Boutique, a Y2K-inspired art and accessories line celebrating self-expression and nostalgia. I’m also developing a mobile enrichment business that brings creative workshops directly into group homes and community spaces for adults with disabilities.
Everything I do connects back to empowerment. Helping people feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Whether I’m designing, teaching, or creating content, I want my work to spark joy, curiosity, and confidence in others. Right now, I’m focused on expanding my creative education brand, finishing school, and eventually building programs that blend art, culture, and care in ways that uplift my community.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The people pleaser in me and all the self-doubt that came with her has served its purpose and is no longer welcome. For so long, I made decisions based on fear: fear of judgment, criticism, or simply taking up space. But I’ve been in a season of setting boundaries and choosing myself, and now I feel like I’ve truly stepped into a new era of confidence and alignment. I’m leaving behind the version of me that played small just to make others comfortable
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You’re literally so freaking cool.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
Honestly, I’m a natural trendsetter, I don’t mean to toot my own horn, but it’s true! I’ve always stayed true to myself and followed what genuinely moves me. I think that’s what keeps my work and my style authentic — it’s never forced, it’s just me evolving naturally and letting the world catch up.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Smoking- no seriously. I’m trying to quit now lol.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lilisartboutiquexo.square.site/
- Instagram: Lilibabexo
- Youtube: LiliRebranded
Image Credits
Khali Jackson
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