Meet LaKia Starks: FOX 5 Atlanta Producer

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

Hi LaKia, how do you think about risk?
When I think about risk, I instantly start thinking about how we take risks everyday. When we wake up in the morning we make a conscious decision on how we are going to navigate through our day. One wrong decision can change your life. One good decision can change your life. However, it is solely up to you on how you proceed.

In 2015, I chose to apply for a job in Charlotte,NC out of spite. I was upset with my Mom because she started giving me “responsibilities” ( remember I said responsibilities).

I got the job and when I moved I spent the first year depressed. I didn’t know anyone, I missed my family and I couldn’t afford “my responsibilities”.

Now, my Mom wasn’t going to let me fail. She texted me every morning for work ( I got up at 1am) feeding me inspirational quotes, letting me know how smart I am, how strong I am, how God directed me towards charlotte for a reason. Simply letting me know I’m destined for greatness.

Once I realized my depression was taking a toll on my mother, I put my big girl panties on and got a second job to help pay my bills and started putting my energy towards my craft, my career. I then started making friends, and began performing well on the job. Booking some big name celebrities, offered a freelance teaching position and most of all I found myself.

Never be afraid to take risks, especially when it comes to your life / career. My risk-taking / leap of faith and depression helped me become the successful/ hard-working woman I am today.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I work for FOX 5 Atlanta as a TV News Producer. I’ve been in the business for eight years now and what sets me apart from other is my creativity and my energy. You have to be creative in my field. You have to be able to engage with your audience and the energy keeps them coming back.

Something I am extremely proud of…ahhh… given the opportunity to hose the BET Hip Hop awards and interviewing.. wait for it! THE TYLER PERRY, that’s right along with Phylicia Rashad (the cast from “A Fall From Grace”), Samuel L. Jackson, Luke James, Meagan Good…that’s just to name a few. I am extremely blessed to be able to work in an atmosphere where I’m able to establish lasting relationships while sharing their stories.

How did I get where I am today, professionally? I received my Broadcast Journalism / PR (Bachelors) degree and Strategic Communication (Masters) from Troy University. I knew at an early age I wanted to be in the television business, but I just didn’t know the avenue I wanted to take. It wasn’t until high school when I realized my passion for print / tv journalism.

I graduated college in 2013 and I received my first tv job in 2o14. That part was easy for me, it’s usually not that fast. The journey wasn’t easy for me, but I overcame those obstacles by steady believing in myself and learning to separate my professional career from my personal life. I am very big in separating the two.

I’ve learned to never lose sight of your dreams. Find your purpose in life. What is it that you want people to remember about you? Know your why? Once you’ve figured all of those things out then you’re ready to take on this thing called ‘LIFE’

One thing I want the world to know about me – I’m unapologetically LaKia

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, where would I take them? Here we go! Breakfast would be at the house (when i’m not cooking maybe – Cracker Barrel, First Watch or a cute brunch spot with some good tunes) with me because I love cooking breakfast food. Then, we would hangout at Piedmont park and ride scooters, go to The Battery for food and drinks and pretty much enjoy the atmosphere. I would take her to see a couple of the cool murals in the city, because we love taking pictures. For the night life, I’m not really a clubber, but I love a nice lounge with cute drinks and a hookah.

Sometimes, I have events where I’m speaking on panels, I would bring her along to meet some of the cool people in the industry. I would take her to the hair expo, we could go to Chateau Elan. bowling, skating. I love going places and experiencing new things. It doesn’t have to be a crowd, just bring the vibes and the energy. Guaranteed a great time!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a big thank you to my Mother. My Mother pushes me to become the best version of myself daily.

And most importantly, Parker. My daughter!
Seeing her beautiful face every morning when I wake up motivates me. I have a legacy, I have to set the tone for her life by showing her how loving, strong, independent and hard-working her Mommy is.

Instagram: @lakia4real

Twitter: _lakia4real

Facebook: LaKia Starks

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