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Keshia Smith-Bates: A Woman With “Real Talk”
Author & Business Woman Keshia Smith Bates

Please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?

As young girl, I was always driven. Being a product of a teen mom and the Tulane Court housing project was what motivated me to beat the odds. My mother was a hardworking entrepreneur and all I ever witnessed from her was dedication and perseverance. She is who inspires me to always be a mover and a shaker! 

Following in her career steps, I have been in the cosmetology realm for nearly 27 years and am the owner of Edge-2-Edge Salon. I have always had a love for writing, but especially poetry. Not the usual poetry of words that rhyme but actual “word play”, which led to daily inspirational quotes that I would jot down and sometimes share via social media. These quotes come to mind randomly but with purpose. They’re usually enhanced by a conversation or a situation so I decided to start sharing with others. Being a wife and mother to 3 Dolls is a challenge in itself, but “wordplay” is my serene place where I’m able to unwind and be blessed through however the spirit leads me. 

Keshia Smith Bates, what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from others?

Keshia Smith Bates is a woman of many gifts and talents. She is a master cosmetologist, writer and she recently became a radio host on Praise 96.5FM Gospel Radio. Her greatest asset is her ability to inspire others and encourage them to reach their greatest potential. She is very unique, being that she is intelligent, witty and fashionable…she’s able to blend in and stand out at the same time! 

What is “failure” and “success” for you?

Failure to me is making excuses without even first trying! One will never achieve what he doesn’t believe (about himself). You are only a failure if you never make an effort to try. 

Success is being able to look at the fruits of your labor with pride because you know without a doubt that you gave it your all. I also believe that in order to be successful, you must show someone else the way. Share what God has gifted unto you. I’m a firm believer that the energy that you give to others is the energy that will be returned to you.

We’d love to hear more about your work.

I have hopes that “365 Days of Real Talk: Wordplay to get you Through Each Day” will be a staple, not just for a group of people but for all. My desire is that the words from my heart will help someone through a bad day, challenge someone to dream, uplift someone who’s broken and just simply place a smile on the face of someone who genuinely needs one. 

What excites you right now?

At this point in my life, I’m simply excited to be able to see my Dolls (daughters) maturing into beautiful young ladies and to be among family and friends with whom I can share love and lots of laughter in a time such as this. Having to be home during the pandemic taught me to value life’s simplicity and to cherish time with the ones that matter most.

What ONE thing would you like for our readers to take away from this feature story, about you?

The ONE thing I would like for people to takeaway is to stop doubting your potential! You never know who need to hear what you have to say, so whatever God places in your spirit, go for it! If He gave you the vision, It will surely come to fruition

How can our readers connect with you?

Order at Amazon.com “365 Days of Real Talk: Wordplay to get you Through Each Day” 

Facebook: Keshia Smith Bates 

IG: @hairbyKeshiaBates