Meet Kendra D. Johnson: Brand Designer, Creative Educator, & Strategist

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

Hi Kendra D., what role has risk played in your life or career?
Reflecting on the person I was before now, the word “risk” was extremely scary to me. I’ve always been an over thinker and perfectionist and I was afraid of failure, now I embrace it. Failure is a good thing because you learn and grow from it.

Back then, you couldn’t pay me to take a risk with anything! Now, I’m ready to take on any and every challenge I am faced with.

Learning to take risks throughout my career has changed my life for nothing but the good. I realized that you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take, and I have been presented with MANY opportunities just by biting the bullet. Risks aren’t so bad after all, huh?

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I feel like what sets me apart from others is that I’m me and they’re them. It’s simple. Everyone has their own lane and there’s room for everyone to eat.

I got to where I am today by doing self-reflection, following creatives that inspired me, and putting forth the effort to be a better designer. It was definitely not easy arriving at the end of the tunnel. My entire career as a brand designer has been challenging but very rewarding.

I overcame the challenge of poor time management, procrastination, etc. by finally saying “Ms. girl, it’s time to move your feet.” After being closed/out of office for two years, I started feeling like I was just out here wasting my talent. Even though I finally have a 9-5 that I genuinely enjoy, I still felt like it was time for me to put myself in go-mode. So here I am, back on the prowl.

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.
Listen, I’m a luxe woman, honey! I love luxury! I would definitely be at The Ritz Carlton for my stay, dine at the finest restaurants, and have a night out on the town!

Some of my interests include shopping, museum visits, traveling, spa visits, and all things beauty!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I definitely have to start off by thanking God because without Him, I am nothing.

I also want to give honorable mentions to these creators and friends of mine that have inspired me to improve my craft and to never give up, even if we haven’t (physically) met! :

– Bree Nesiah (Nesiah Brand)
– Mia Harden (Mia Harden Creative Studio)
– Kayla Hicks (Logos by Kayla)
– Diamond Sands (thediamondsands)
– Jordan Gustus (The Jordan Ariel)
– Joli Anne (joliannebranding)
– Aysia Johnson (The AK Brand)
– Cortesia Oxford (The Brand Architect)
– Shanena Brown (Illicit Deeds)
– Simone Fernandez (Sarah Marie Design Co)

Website: msha.ke/kdjohnson

Instagram: Instagram.com/blackellewoodz