We recently connected with Kia Davis and have shared our conversation below.
Kia , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
From a young age, I had an innate passion for design and a love for creating beautiful and harmonious spaces. As a child, I found joy in transforming my childhood home, arranging furniture, and adding pops of color to my surroundings. I even inherited my grandmother’s penchant for making beds elaborately. Little did I know then that this love for design would be a guiding force in my life.
As I grew older, I pursued a career as a Building Biologist, driven by a desire to create healthy living spaces. My role as the Principal Designer at DavisMade allowed me to combine my keen eye for design with a deep commitment to holistic well-being. I aimed to transform indoor environments into sanctuaries of health, well-being, performance, and resilience, making homes beautiful and nurturing for all who dwelled within.
In 2013, life took a tragic turn when my daughter, Carsyn, was born and, heartbreakingly, passed away just 128 days later. Her loss shattered my faith and forced me to confront life’s most profound questions. The grief and search for answers pushed me to my limits, but through it all, I found strength and resilience. I learned to live with the pain and discover meaning in her short life.
Out of this profound experience emerged the Carsyn Neille Foundation. Beyond my professional pursuits, I founded and became the Executive Chief Comfort Creator of this nonprofit organization. The foundation became my platform to advocate for families affected by childhood cancer. We offer support and design sustainable, nontoxic bedrooms that enhance the quality of life and survivorship for these families.
As a mother, I cherish the moments spent with my children, recognizing motherhood as a calling I hold dear. My faith in Jesus serves as a cornerstone of my life, and I’m passionate about uncovering and sharing the rich history of biblical black history.
Beyond these significant roles, I indulge my curiosity through travel, surfing, culinary exploration, cheering for my soccer star of a daughter, and expanding my horizons through the written word. With a collection of over 1,500 books and counting, my thirst for knowledge and love of reading are evident. I also savor competitive game nights with family and friends, creating fun and memorable moments that strengthen our bonds.
In all that I do, whether as a building biologist, an advocate for childhood cancer families, a devoted mother, or a knowledge seeker, my life is a testament to my dedication to wellness, community, and the pursuit of personal and professional excellence. This is my purpose in life, a multifaceted journey driven by a passion for design, a commitment to well-being, and a deep calling to make a positive impact on the world.
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?
I lead a multifaceted life that spans various areas of passion and expertise. Professionally, I am the Principal Designer at DavisMade, a holistic interior design firm. What excites and fulfills me the most about this role is the opportunity to merge my love for design with my commitment to holistic well-being. At DavisMade, our focus is on transforming indoor environments into sanctuaries of health, well-being, performance, and resilience. We believe that the spaces we inhabit have a profound impact on our lives, and our mission is to create beautiful, nurturing homes that support the well-being of those who reside in them.
In addition to my work at DavisMade, my true calling lies in the role of Founder and Executive Chief Comfort Creator of the Carsyn Neille Foundation. This nonprofit organization is deeply meaningful to me, as it allows me to advocate for families affected by childhood cancer. We provide support to these families and design sustainable, nontoxic bedrooms that significantly enhance the quality of life and survivorship for the children and their families. It’s a cause close to my heart, born out of personal experience and a desire to make a positive impact on those facing similar challenges.
Aside from my professional pursuits, I have a deep love for exploration, adventure, and learning. I find joy in traveling to new destinations, riding the waves while surfing, and discovering the culinary delights offered by eateries and restaurants. I’m an avid sports enthusiast, particularly when it comes to cheering for soccer teams. As a lifelong learner, I’ve amassed a collection of over 1,500 books and counting, underscoring my unquenchable thirst for knowledge and my passion for reading.
On a lighter note, I also enjoy hosting competitive game nights with my family and friends. These moments create lasting memories and strengthen our bonds, serving as a reminder of the importance of connection and joy in our lives.
In terms of what’s new, my journey of self-discovery and purpose continues to evolve. I remain committed to my work at DavisMade and the Carsyn Neille Foundation, striving to make a difference in the lives of those I touch through my designs and advocacy. As my thirst for knowledge and experiences grows, I continue to explore new horizons, both personally and professionally. I’m always open to new opportunities, challenges, and endeavors that align with my values and passions, and I look forward to what the future may hold.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge have been particularly impactful in shaping my path. Here they are, along with advice for those early in their own journeys:
Passion and Purpose: The most significant driving force in my journey has been a deep passion for design, well-being, and advocacy. This passion provides the motivation and enthusiasm to persist through challenges and setbacks. My advice is to explore your interests and values. What truly excites you? What issues or activities resonate with your heart and soul? Identifying your passions is the first step. Once you’ve found them, don’t be afraid to pursue them wholeheartedly.
Resilience: Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. My journey took a devastating turn with the loss of my daughter, Carsyn, which tested my resilience in unimaginable ways. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, and it’s a crucial skill to develop. My advice is to build resilience through self-care, self-reflection, and a support network. Understand that setbacks are a part of life, and use them as opportunities for growth. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and never lose sight of your purpose even in the face of challenges.
Continuous Learning: The pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement has been pivotal in my journey. Whether it’s my ever-growing collection of books, my dedication to learning, or my commitment to staying updated in my professional field, a thirst for knowledge has been a driving force. My advice is to be a lifelong learner. Embrace curiosity and be open to new experiences, perspectives, and information. Invest in your education and personal development, whether through formal education, self-study, or mentorship. Knowledge is a valuable asset that can open doors and lead to greater understanding.
In summary, my journey has been shaped by passion, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. For those embarking on their own journeys, my advice is to discover your passions, build resilience, and never stop learning. Stay true to your purpose, even when faced with challenges, and remember that your journey is uniquely your own. Embrace it, adapt as needed, and continue moving forward with dedication and a sense of purpose.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Collaboration has been a powerful way in furthering my personal and professional goals. When considering partnerships or collaborations, I think about individuals, organizations, and companies that align with our values, mission, and vision. Here are some types of collaborations that we consider and how potential collaborators can connect with me:
Fellow Designers and Creatives: Being in the field of interior design and well-being, collaborating with other designers, artists, and creative professionals helps steer us to innovative projects and fresh perspectives. We always seek those who share our passion for creating healthy, beautiful living spaces.
Health and Wellness Experts: Given our focus on holistic well-being, partnering with health and wellness experts, such as nutritionists, fitness trainers, and mental health professionals, can enhance the well-being aspects of our work. We also seek Companies and organizations in the healthcare, wellness, or sustainable living sectors. To collaborate with CNF to offer products or services that contribute to holistic interior design and non-toxic living solutions. They want to reach a target audience interested in wellness and sustainability.
Nonprofits and Advocacy Organizations: By being involved in the nonprofit sector, we look for collaborations with organizations that share our mission. Similar to our past collaborative installs with MaxLove Project, we are always looking to add value and community to our families.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Brands: Because our design work emphasizes sustainability and eco-friendly practices, partnering with brands and companies that share these values is mutually beneficial. For example, our relationship with Mattress Makers has been such a fruitful and pivotal collaboration.
Authors and Educators: Given our passion for reading, knowledge-seeking, and educating families throughout the nation, my collaborations with authors, educators, and experts in fields that align with our interests are something we’re always happy to make. In the past, this has led to joint projects and speaking engagements, and one day, I hope to co-author content. Connect with these individuals through book clubs, educational events, or social media.
Tech and Innovation Companies: In the world of interior design, technology and innovation play an increasingly significant role. Collaborating with tech companies or startups in the home improvement and design space can lead to exciting and cutting-edge projects. We continually explore tech and innovation events, online forums, and networking opportunities.
Community Leaders, Corporate Philanthropists and Local Businesses: For those who prioritize community and local impact, partnering with community leaders and local businesses can help us make a difference at a grassroots level.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carsynneillefoundation.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carsyn_neille_foundation/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kia-davis-61144294/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@carsynneillefoundation
Image Credits
Meg Marie Photography
