Meet HARRIETT Kou | Author| Speaker | Advocate

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

Hi HARRIETT, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Better Perfect You began as Better Perfect Me, a personal journey of self-empowerment, healing, and growth. It was born from a desire to overcome self-doubt and societal limitations by striving daily to become the best version of oneself. As the mission evolved, so did the vision from a personal transformation to a powerful community movement.

Today, Better Perfect You uplifts and equips girls and women to embrace their worth, define their identity, and pursue purpose with confidence. Through affirmations, mentorship, workshops, and digital content, we help dismantle negative self-beliefs, promote mental wellness, and build self-esteem. Our impact extends beyond individuals, creating stronger families, schools, and communities. By changing one life at a time, we are helping to change the world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a mental health clinician with a degree in social work, and I can proudly say that the journey to where I am today was anything but easy but it was worth every step. During my sophomore year of college, I found out I was pregnant with my daughter. I made the difficult decision to take some time off, but I was determined not to give up. When she turned one, I returned to school often with her by my side. I took her to class, and I’ll never forget the professors who allowed her to sit quietly while I took tests or listened to lectures. Friends became family, helping watch her in the cafeteria so I could attend class. She became known on campus as the “Rutgers baby.”

That experience taught me one of the greatest lessons of my life: the power of community. I learned that it’s okay to lean on your village and more importantly, that it doesn’t make you weaker, it makes you stronger. I also learned that no matter the obstacles, perseverance can take you places talent alone can’t.

Social work became more than just a career it became a mission. I always say, “Social work is my career, but making an impact is my calling.” What sets me apart is that I don’t just bring knowledge to the table I bring heart, lived experience, and deep compassion. I’ve walked through the fire and came out refined, not broken.

I want the world to know I’m a fighter, a believer, and someone who never gives up. My brand and my story are built on resilience, faith, and the desire to help others see their value and purpose especially when life tries to tell them otherwise.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Houston for a week, I’d make sure they got the full H-Town experience—good vibes, good food, and unforgettable memories!

We’d kick things off with a visit to Graffiti Park to snap some Instagram-worthy photos and soak in the city’s creative energy. Then we’d head over to Lotus Seafood for some juicy, seasoned-to-perfection seafood—you haven’t had real seafood until you’ve had a “Fully Loaded Loud Pack” from Lotus!

One day we’d rent scooters and cruise through Downtown Houston, taking in the skyline and city sights before heading to the Museum District to explore culture, art, and history.

On Wednesday night, we’d turn up the rhythm and soul at Prospect Park for Afrobeat night—it’s a vibe every time!

Friday would be for the nightlife. We’d hit up Washington Avenue to bar hop and enjoy some of the city’s best drinks and energy. Every stop has its own flavor, and the people are always fun.

Saturday is for the day party scene—we’d be posted at Kamp Houston, enjoying the food, drinks, and laid-back crowd. After that, we’d chill out for the night and rest up.

Sunday would start at my home church, Harvest Houston, for a powerful, spirit-filled service. Then, we’d wrap up the weekend with Sunday Funday at Confession, vibing to smooth R&B and diving into their famous lamb chops—yes, they’re that good!

Houston is filled with energy, culture, and community, and this lineup gives a perfect taste of it all. Whether you’re into art, music, food, or nightlife—this city never disappoints!

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?
Absolutely! I recently wrote my first book, I Know Who I Am: In a World Full of Chaos, and it’s truly a full-circle moment for me. The book is a collection of affirmations and reflections meant to empower teen girls to embrace their identity, worth, and inner strength especially during the most confusing and chaotic times. I dedicated it to my beautiful teenage daughter, who inspires me every day to show up boldly and authentically.

Growing up, I was blessed to have a middle school counselor who constantly spoke life into me. She reminded me that I was capable, worthy, and seen, even when I didn’t believe it myself. Her consistent encouragement planted the seed that led me to become a social worker someone who could give back that same light and support. Over the years, that calling evolved into my business, Better Perfect You, where I now pour into women and girls the way she poured into me.

So my shoutout is absolutely to her, and to all the mentors, counselors, mothers, sisters, and friends who take the time to speak life into someone else. They are the quiet heroes shaping futures, one kind word at a time.

Website: https://www.betterperfectyou.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterperfectyou?igsh=MTM4bDJ1MGt2OXFmNw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/165yQCStw4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits
Coophotography