We’re looking forward to introducing you to Venkayla Haynes. Check out our conversation below.
Venkayla, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
For me, integrity always comes first. I refuse to compromise my values just to fit into an environment where the energy feels off, unhealthy, and ultimately more damaging than beneficial. I pride myself on being honest—if something doesn’t sit right with me, I’ll speak up, whether that’s private or in public. This year, I faced situations where I had to put my principles above everything else, and I have zero regrets about it. I believe it’s important to hold people accountable when their words or actions are ignorant or harmful. Especially with the increase in political and racial tension. I stand by that, no matter the setting or the person.
Ignorance should never be an excuse for harm, and intention does not erase impact. By calling things out and speaking truthfully, we create space for honest conversations, healing, and real progress even when it’s uncomfortable.
I don’t want to be in spaces where people run from discomfort instead of leaning into it. That, to me, is weakness. Growth doesn’t happen in avoidance, it happens when we’re willing to sit in the tension, to listen, to be challenged, and to reflect. So yes, integrity is everything.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m not new to this brand or this space—I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with you all before. My name is Venkayla Haynes, and I currently serve as the Director of Communications at Black Voters Matter Fund. What truly sets us apart is our unapologetic commitment to uplifting Black communities. Our organization is known for The Blackest Bus in America, which travels across the country each year, engaging directly with local communities and building partnerships around issues that matter most to Black voters.
Beyond advocacy and voter engagement, a key part of our mission is supporting grassroots organizations on the ground. The “Fund” in our name is intentional—we provide financial resources to local groups in the states where we work, helping them build capacity and drive sustainable change. Our work is rooted in the belief that real power comes from supporting organizations led by and for the communities they serve and I stand behind that 100%.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My father has always been, and continues to be, one of my greatest supporters. Although he has since passed away, a loss that was incredibly difficult for me, I carry his encouragement with me every day. Over time, it’s become more manageable, but the impact of his absence is something I still feel deeply. He was proud of everything I accomplished, whether it was earning straight A’s in elementary school, receiving a scholarship for college, or being recognized by the NBA for my work. Even the simple things, like seeing me smile, brought him joy. He always saw and celebrated me for exactly who I am: an intelligent, unstoppable Black woman.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
I often find myself missing the innocence of certain moments of my childhood as a young Black girl. Back then, there were moments where life felt much simpler and carefree. Now, as an adult, I’m aware of everything happening around me. There’s so much being shown and discussed, and it can be both traumatic and exhausting at times.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Peace, always peace.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m doing what I want to do.
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Image Credit: Solomon Jones
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