We had the good fortune of connecting with Tory Keit and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tory, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
My legacy is something I hold close to my heart. I want to be remembered as someone who prioritized family, always nurturing and supporting those closest to me. Family forms the foundation of everything I do, and I believe it’s the core of a meaningful life.
Beyond that, I want to leave a lasting impact on my community. Whether through my work as an author, artist, photographer, or nonprofit leader, my goal has always been to uplift others and create opportunities for growth and self-expression. My passion for the arts isn’t just about personal creativity; it’s about fostering an environment where others can thrive and share their voices.
In all the roles I’ve taken on, the common thread is a commitment to giving back and inspiring those around me. I want people to remember me as someone who followed their passions and made it a priority to help others do the same. Ultimately, I hope my legacy is one of connection, creativity, and community—a life well-lived through meaningful relationships and the empowerment of others.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business journey has blended passion, persistence, and a deep commitment to the community. At the heart of what sets my business apart is our focus on empowering others—whether through innovative AI education at the Keit Foundation or fostering creative expression through my work as an author, artist, and photographer. I’m most proud of our impact, particularly in bringing AI and STEM opportunities to underserved communities, inspiring hope and a brighter future.
Getting here wasn’t easy, and the path was filled with challenges, from navigating the complexities of launching new initiatives to ensuring our programs remain accessible and relevant. Overcoming these hurdles required resilience, creative problem-solving, and an unwavering belief in our mission. I learned that collaboration and adaptability are essential—leaning on a network of mentors, community leaders, and supporters who share our vision and whose role is invaluable.
What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s built on the principles of service and empowerment. Every project, program, and piece of art I create is driven by a desire to uplift others and provide them with the tools they need to succeed. The Keit Foundation is a resource and asset dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
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?
The Village Retail – Located in Ponce City Market, this shop features a curated collection of Black-owned brands offering everything from fashion to home goods. For Keeps Books – A cozy bookstore in Sweet Auburn, specializing in rare and classic Black literature. Slutty Vegan – A must-visit vegan restaurant known for its indulgent plant-based burgers and vibrant community atmosphere.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to the Keit Foundation for its groundbreaking work in AI and STEM education. Their mission to empower communities through innovative programs like GreenTech Academy and the AI Prompt Engineers Program is truly inspiring. These initiatives, making AI accessible and practical for everyday use, are not just about technology but about building a community of empowered individuals ready to excel in science, technology, and beyond.
The AI Toolkit, in particular, is a game-changer, offering families dynamic resources to grow, learn, and thrive together. The foundation’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs through the Innovate Her Award also deserves recognition. The Keit Foundation’s work is not just impactful. It’s transformative. It’s a beacon of hope and opportunity for so many, and I’m proud to be associated with such a transformative organization.
Website: https://www.keitfoundation.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekeitfoundation/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/keit-foundation
Facebook: https://facebook.com/keitfoundation
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKeitFoundation