Meet Krista Durant

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Krista Durant. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Krista , so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?

Being the only one in the room has taught me to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership. Growing up without many tangible role models who looked like me, I had to forge my own path, learning to be both resilient and resourceful. This journey has been guided by my calling to be a leader in advocacy, a successful business owner, and an author, while also raising my children as a single mother.

I’m here to encourage, empower, and uplift young ladies, women, and girls of color, showing them that they can achieve their dreams with grace and strength. My experiences have equipped me to lead by example, demonstrating that different is not only dope but a powerful catalyst for change. My elevator pitch: Embrace your uniqueness, lead with authenticity, and transform challenges into opportunities for empowerment.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I wear many hats in my professional and personal life: Advocacy and Education Program Director, PTA President, Ordained Minister, business owner and local mobile notary. Each role allows me to serve my community in unique and meaningful ways. The most exciting aspect of my work is witnessing the direct impact of my efforts on individuals and families, whether through advocacy, education, spiritual guidance, or essential notary services.

At the heart of all that I do is a commitment to service, a principle deeply rooted in my faith. The Bible teaches us in Mark 10:45, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” This verse encapsulates my mission: to serve others with humility, dedication, and love.

My walk is built on the foundation of empowering and uplifting others, particularly young ladies, women, and girls of color. I strive to show that through hard work, faith, and resilience, they too can achieve their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities. Serving others is the most fulfilling path to personal and collective growth.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are resilience, empathy, and strategic thinking. These attributes have shaped my path as a leader, business owner, author, and advocate.

1. Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep pushing forward has been crucial. To develop resilience, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and never be afraid to seek support when needed.
2. Empathy: Understanding and connecting with others on a deep level has allowed me to serve effectively and build meaningful relationships. Cultivate empathy by actively listening, putting yourself in others’ shoes, and showing genuine care and compassion.
3. Strategic Thinking: Planning and executing with a clear vision has enabled me to achieve my goals. Enhance your strategic thinking by setting clear objectives, staying informed, and continuously refining your approach based on feedback and results.

For those early in their journey, I advise focusing on personal growth and continuous learning. Surround yourself with mentors, seek diverse experiences, and remain adaptable. Remember, your unique perspective is your greatest asset, and embracing it will lead to impactful success.

What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?

In the past 12 months, my biggest area of growth has been in educating myself and expanding my knowledge base. This journey has involved working closely with mentors, asking insightful questions, and consistently seeking opportunities to learn. I’ve attended workshops and seminars, each contributing valuable insights and skills.

In addition, I’ve taken on low-paying positions to gain hands-on experience and exposure in various fields. These experiences have been invaluable in shaping my understanding and capabilities, allowing me to serve more effectively in my roles as an Advocacy Coordinator, PTA President, Ordained Minister, and local mobile notary.

Investing in my education has not only broadened my horizons but also strengthened my ability to empower and uplift others. This commitment to learning underscores my belief that continuous growth is essential for personal and professional success.