Kelly Redmond
Executive director, Impact Media & Entertainment Coalition
What inspires you to show up at work every day?
I love what I do! I am working in my passion, and I’m on purpose. I am creating a non-profit organization, Impact Media & Entertainment Coalition, and I’m launching our primary educational initiative the Campaign to Promote Positive Images (CPPI) where I aspire to impact race relations by supporting the consumption of uplifting, inspirational, and educational media and entertainment programming primarily featuring African Americans. It is truly a gift to be doing this work, especially now in light of recent events regarding race relations in America. I am grateful to be active in the solution.
How did you determine your career path?
My career path has definitely not been linear. It has been a journey of trial and error as I pursued my interests and passions using my strengths to make a difference and be relevant in the community. Over the course of my 26-year career, (yes, I started early at the age of 18), I have acquired experience that has uniquely prepared me for the vision and mission that God gave to me to launch Impact Media & Entertainment Coalition and the Campaign to Promote Positive Images (CPPI). I am using my background in diversity and inclusion, marketing, public relations, communications, grassroots community organizing, fundraising, non-profit management, and community relations to advance a movement.
Describe the skill sets that are essential to future business leaders and innovators.
Vision, leadership, relevance, financial management, ability to develop and lead others, strategic problem solving, out-of-the-box thinking, and compassion for mankind.
Define innovative methods you apply to your business and life.
When you take care of God’s business, He takes care of yours! I also apply the framework that nothing is impossible with God! He is the ultimate innovator and creator. If I follow Him, He will direct my path.
Describe goal setting methods you use and how you evaluate your success.
I use traditional goal setting methods with the caveat that if the goals are not causing others to laugh, they are not challenging enough. I evaluate success by the conversion of partners, and the evidence of lives being impacted. I ensure that daily progress is made by attempting to reach or convert at least one person or organization a day. This is not a sprint. It is a marathon that will be continued beyond my lifetime. Success will be evident when the legacy lives beyond me.
Who do you consider your peers in your field?
Audrey Thomas of Kingdomwood Christian Film Festival is charting new grounds with her mission to advance the Kingdom through entertainment programming. Dr. Holly Carter and Robi Reed created the Merge Summit, and they are convening the faith community leaders and entertainment industry executives while training aspiring entertainment industry leaders to ensure that we have more inspirational programming featuring African Americans. Shaunelle Curry of Media Done Responsibly is mobilizing young advocates that are training the community on the importance of consuming responsible and socially conscious media and entertainment. Tom Burrell provided amazing insight
Name you favorite role models for success in two industries.
Rev. Dr. C.T. Vivian, civil rights activist and community leader and Byron Reed, Community relations executive at Wells Fargo. They are both mentors, partners, and role models.
Names three books that changed how you saw life that you would recommend to others.
Before the Mayflower by Lerone Bennett, Brainwashed: Challenging the Myth of Black Inferiority by Tom Burrell, and Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren.
Explain why lifelong learning is important to you.
I realize that I am constantly evolving, and that there is always something to be gleaned from the experience and knowledge of others. I love to learn!
Describe the voice of success that you hear in your head.
I am called to a divine purpose, and I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Community success based on what you do in the community means what to you?
I define community success when African Americans are loved and accepted by the broader society and ourselves. Our humanity will be recognized, accepted, and celebrated by all. This will be evident in us truly achieving equity in education, career success, financial security, and no longer viewed as public enemy number one but an equally contributing member and partner globally.
Technology plays what role in your daily life?
Technology is an integral part of my daily life. I use technology and social media on a daily basis to advance the movement, and to connect with others to advance the cause.
What software or tools of technology have made the biggest difference in your life?
Facebook and LinkedIn have transformed my reach to the broader community and facilitated connections that were unimaginable 15 years ago.
