Meet Ky’Wuan Dukes | College Athlete/Brand Ambassador/Influencer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ky’Wuan Dukes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ky’Wuan, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Charleston, SC but deeply connected in Pineville, And Moncks Corner. I grew up in Statesville, NC which is a small town near Charlotte, NC with very few business and things to do but lots of talented people who may become distracted from there actual purpose. Going through things since a young age has brought determination and ambition in me no matter the situation, time, or day. Having a strong grandmother, A strong mother who had me at the age of 16, and some supporting family made me want to want more and better for me and my family. I grew up on 4th and 5th street on the Southside of Statesville, where the chaos is known to be. I never wanted to become apart of it, but wanted to bring a positive spark to the ones there that may be young and lost, or just undecided in life between the streets, distractions, going to school, etc. My upbringing made me aware, disciplined, and very focused of my every move, decision, and action.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Honestly, I’d say something that sets me apart from others is my mindset and mentality. I’ve been through everything you see in movies and still managed to stay focused, of course things weren’t easy and still aren’t! But what I tell myself is what will me reacting to anything negative do positive for me? I try and live life throughout my purpose. Which is motivating, uplifting, loving and impacting the youth and people who are open to elevating and bringing unity. Going to college is something I always wanted to do for myself, and so my siblings can follow behind and do right rather it’s school, starting a business, or finding a great job, just something positive. With me getting to play football and get back in the field I have a lot of things to get off my chest and let my talent speak for itself. I overcame most of these obstacles in life by building my relationship with God, and finding myself and separating my purpose from others. Being a college athlete/Ambassador isn’t easy but it’s all about how u manage things and the drive to get things done & never give up!

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.
I would take them downtown, to the aquarium, to some great southern restaurants, visit some Museums, and vibe out around the city.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a shout out to my family, my supporters, fans, and extended family for giving me the extra confidence to never stop doing what I’m doing and to go even harder. I’d love to give a shout out to my son that’s now been brought into this world since June 6th, Loyal Ky’Aire Dukes and his mother for being strong throughout that process/delivery. In life I like to read a book by Robert Green called “The 48 laws of power” which is very deep and logical and good to use as chest in your life and in todays society.

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Image Credits
@jorgetorres