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

Hi Monique, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My business isn’t just a reflection of who I am; it’s a testament to God’s promise that “your gifts will make room for you.” For years, I engaged in business activities—coaching, consulting, and implementing strategies—without officially having a business of my own. It was a natural extension of who I am and what I love to do. As I continued to help others pivot and start their businesses, I found myself with multiple clients, realizing the need to formalize my own business affairs.

In that moment, Moni Management LLC was born, embodying not only my passion but also the manifestation of the gifts I’ve been blessed with. It’s a journey that beautifully aligns with the belief that our innate talents create opportunities and carve out a path uniquely suited for us.

What sets my Moni Management LLC apart from other management companies is my passion for bringing the visions of others to life. I’m not just about transactions; I’m committed to ensuring every client achieves the success they envision. From the time we initiate our partnership, I’m there, walking alongside them to make that vision a reality. With Moni Management, your business is my business, and together, we aim for unparalleled success.

What should our readers know about your business?

While my journey has seen its share of triumphs, the path to today was far from a cakewalk. Raised in a single-parent home, I often found myself shouldering the responsibility of caring for my younger brother as my mother tirelessly worked two, and at times, three jobs. We didn’t have it all, but we had enough. What I felt was lacking, however, was love and support.

Years later, after a challenging quest to discover myself, I can attest that what you believe is missing, you actively seek. Unfortunately, this search led me into a toxic and manipulative relationship that resulted in leaving college and losing nearly everything, including most of my friends and family. Fortunately, I learned a vital truth: what God places inside you cannot be taken away. It became my responsibility to unlock and unleash that power to become the person I was meant to be.

The journey wasn’t as straightforward as that realization. Working a job that felt beneath my abilities, unable to escape due to lacking the degrees the corporate world deemed necessary, was a humbling experience. Facing repeated rejections and “No” after each promotion opportunity or interview tested my resilience.

Countless tearful conversations with my grandmother about being overlooked led to a hard truth that I carry close to my heart to this day: no one values you; you must value yourself. She didn’t sugarcoat the reality, forcing me to get crystal clear about my identity, desires, and, most crucially, the value I placed on myself for my version of success.

It took time, but a decade after high school, I finally graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Human Services. This was followed by a dual master’s program, earning a Master of Healthcare Administration and a Master of Business Administration. Currently, I’m tirelessly pursuing a Doctoral degree in Management with a concentration in Information Systems Technology. I achieved consecutive promotions at Emory University, where I’ve dedicated 13 years of my career.

Though the journey was lengthy, I realigned my life and achieved many long-envisioned goals. Yet, what fills me with the utmost pride is my role as a volunteer with the Diamond in the Rough Youth Development program. Here, I mentor girls, hoping the seeds planted will guide them toward wise life decisions from the very start. Through mentoring, I aim to spare them the mistakes I made, recognizing the impact a mentor could have had on my life.

Ironically, working with these youth has fueled my personal growth, leading to even bigger dreams and the birth of my business, Moni Management.

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?
Throughout my journey, I’ve unceasingly paid homage to my late mother, Angela Thickin, who laid the foundation for many of the foundational skills I specialize in today. Additionally, I want to extend a heartfelt shoutout to my friend, mentor, advisor, stylist, and prayer partner, Dr. Audra Mac. She is a true cheerleader and champion for people, and I’ve personally witnessed the profound impact of her support and encouragement.

A special shoutout goes to my bonus mom, Brenda—thank you for your unwavering support and the tough love that keeps me grounded. And let’s not forget Dr. Nicole Steele and Dr. Dee Parker, who have guided me into my Brilliant Zone by ensuring my Confidence, Courage, and Clarity are always in check. Your love and leadership have been instrumental in my journey.

Website: https://www.monimanagement.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monimanagement/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monique-kelly-mha-mba-78846a182/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoniManagementLLC

Other: https://linktr.ee/monimanagement?fbclid=IwAR3NHZJD-G48yEUUcjO6hV0Io-dAzYhw_2xOWz9Pkyd2aNh4ZPiU5JFCKKI

Image Credits
Photo Credit: Kimazing Photos https://www.kimazingphotos.com/

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