Meet Karitta Conyers | Writer, Tutor, & Public Notary

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

Hi Karitta, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I never thought that I’d be a small business owner. Owning and operating my own tutoring business has motivated me to set more business and financial goals for my family. Kay & Co Tutoring Service LLC provides a wide range of English reading and comprehension support. I also manage my own notary service. My entire thought process behind starting my own business derived from my passion for writing poetry. In high school, my English teachers would pay me to write poetry, while my cosmetology classmates would pass around my teenage cliche short stories. It was in that moment that I knew that my dedication to becoming a skilled writer could develop into something substantial one day. It was the result of those experiences that opened my eyes to the idea of ownership. I believed that there’s nothing more gratifying than to be able to say that THIS IS MINE. Two degrees and a son later, I became extremely adamant in breaking the systematic curses that have haunted my family for generations. Although I had already broken generational curses of my own, I want my son to seek all possibilities and leave no rock overturned. It’s important for me to be a representation of the individual I am raising him to be. Throughout this process I have learned four key aspects about becoming a business owner ; you can’t be successful if you don’t start, you can’t be successful if you don’t fail, your faith must be greater than your fear, and you have to trust the process. I will never forget why I decided to become a business owner because it keeps me grounded. Stepping out on faith and starting my tutoring service has given me the confidence towards publishing my first book, The Memoir’s of a Black Phoenix.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
For the past 18 years, poetry has been my art. I have a connection with words and music that sends my souls into an intimate space. Traditionally, I work in the local juvenile justice system. After working my 9 to 5 job, I focus on managing my tutoring appointments, and completing my book. I have a long journey ahead of me to get to where I want to be professionally, but I am proud of where I am today. There is no easy, straightforward path toward success. You will always face obstacles to get to where you want to be. I’ve face spiritual, mental, and emotional challenges. I overcame my obstacles by focusing on my mental health, and focusing on the positive aspects of life instead of dwelling on the negatives. I’ve learned that anything worth having is worth working for. Sometimes, you have to get out of your own head and out of your own way to receive your blessings. What I would like the world to know about myself, my brand, and what I stand for is that I stand as a symbol of resilience, and perseverance.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The summertime in Richmond, Virginia is the best time to enjoy the city’s hot spots. An ideal weekend with my visiting bestie would be a combination between relaxation and excitement. I would kick off the weekend early! On Wednesdays we would visit the exhibitions at the Fine Arts Museum and partake in self care and spa routines. Thursdays are a great time to experience the city’s vintage district known as Carytown. Also, we’d enjoy happy hour at Trios Cigar Bar & Lounge and enjoying a stroll through Brown’s Isle. Brown’s Island is one of the most heavily visited public parks in the city of Richmond. Located on the riverfront along the James River, it is home to much of Richmond’s street art and artists. On Fridays we would head down Shockoe Bottom for the afternoon. Shockoe Bottoms is an downtown riverside area characterized by cobblestone streets dotted, unique eateries, and upscale fashion stores. It’s a simple, yet great start to an amazing day. That evening I would take my bestie to The Writer’s Den. The Writer’s Den is an intimate spot that host poetry slams, open mic night, and writing workshops. On Saturday, I would take my bff to one of the city’s annual festival. Richmond host many festivals that include but are not limited to Shamrock the Block, Watermelon Festival, Folk Festival, Bacon Festival, Jazz Festival, and Vegan Festival. Saturday evenings is the best time to party. We would go out to enjoy the club scene at Kabana Rooftop. Kabana Rooftop is located 20 stories high above the city. They have a variety of music, indoor, and outdoor seating, multiple bars and a stunning view of the city. On Sundays, WE BRUNCH! We would dine at Richmond’s own Frozay. This restaurant is one of the city’s main highlights as it attracts many celebrities that stop by the city. The food is superb and the atmosphere is electrifying. After brunch, I’d suggest charting an inexpensive boat ride down the James River. This very relaxing activity is also a great opportunity to appreciate our ancestors contribute to the City of Richmond. I would end the weekend by having Sunday dinner at one of the many soul food restaurants with live entertainment.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate this Shoutout to a group of women who are constantly impacting communities, and striving for social change. I give credit to the educators who are members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. Several of our founders were women of the arts, and education. I never had an interest of becoming a teacher, until I had started Kay & Co Tutoring. I often revisit the history of my organization to reaffirm my love and dedication to the sorority. I have found a new joy supporting students outside of the classroom. I enjoy it so much that it has inspired me to follow in the footsteps of my founders and further my career in education.

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