Meet Karessa Johnson | Published Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Karessa Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karessa, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in New York but raised in Georgia. Although I was not raised by my biological mother, I was blessed to be surrounded by my maternal family members. I managed to survive mental, physical, and sexual abuse at a very early age. I learned the importance of forgiveness and was able to use the pain from my past as a stepping stone to elevate and push me further in life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For as long as I can remember I have always been in tune with my creative side. I love to express myself artistically which is how I even considered a side career as a certified professional Makeup Artist. While makeup is my passion, I always felt that my purpose in life was much bigger than that. I knew that overcoming childhood trauma such as sexual abuse wasn’t in vein. I felt it my duty to help others to overcome the traumas that I survived. I try my best to be transparent, genuine, and honest which is how I got to where I am today. It has not been easy at all. Not everyone will understand the vision or the path you’re on in life. With that comes judgement and lack of support. I overcome these challenges by continuing to pour goodness and positivity into the universe and trust it to come back to me. When I hosted my second book launch & brunch event I felt defeated because most of the people who encouraged me to have the event didn’t actually support me when it was time to attend. I extended grace to those people and reassured myself that those who were meant to be there would be there. I didn’t care if there was only 5 people in attendance, that didn’t dictate the impact that my book would have on the lives of others. A few lessons I have learned; always stay true to who you are as a person, follow your intuition, protect your peace, always give love no matter if it’s reciprocated (trust that it will find its way back to you), and keep God (or whatever higher power you believe in) first. I want the world to know that you don’t have to have life all figured out to make a positive impact. In fact, it’s your imperfections that will likely inspire people the most.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting me in Atlanta we’d start with brunch at Soigne Garden. We’d have a spa day at Hand & Stone, a shopping spree at Akira (perimeter mall). We’d walk up Stone Mountain, have dinner at Cirque Blue Seafood, then drinks at Sage.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to first thank God, who’s the head of my life. My closest loved ones (my children (Khalil & Kalana), sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles, Josh & in-laws and my dear friends). I’d like to also thank my Bishop; Gregory Maurice Fuller whose spiritual leadership has impacted my life. My dear friend and Pastor Quatisha Lovett McCain and her husband Israel McCain for their prayers and support. Last but not least, the many people who have supported me via my online platforms and a special thanks to Michael Jones who discovered me online and is helping me to reach people across the world.

Website: www.iamkaressa.com     

Instagram: www.instagram.com/karessedfaces

Twitter: Karessed Faces

Facebook: Karessa Johnson (Karessed Faces)

Image Credits
The Rya Brand (Vivian Azyra)