Meet Kenya J | Designer & Social Worker

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

Hi Kenya, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risks are meant to be taken, the right ones of course, but overall what’s life without taking risks? As a creative and former Social Worker, I have constantly had to take risks to get to where I am currently. I know that having this approach has definitely enabled me to remove barriers that most may experience in life.. I’ve taken many risks in order to pursue my dreams. I made the decision to relocate 10 years ago, from the East Coast to Los Angeles. Considered a huge “risk” to most of my friends and family members, this played a major role in me pursuing a career in fashion and developing my brand.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For starters, I’m an overall creative at heart. I started my clothing brand (Tokio Fever ) in 2009, now 13 years later I finally feel that I have established an identity for the brand. Tokio Fever merges comfort , bold flare and statement prints. I want each piece to make my customers feel bold and comfortable! I’ve branded the “crewneck with pockets” which merges comfort, style and convenience. The brand continues to grow with each collection that I produce, with all of my production taking place here in Los Angeles, CA. Being a mother, stability for my family has always been a top priority to me. Knowing this, being a “starving artist” has never really been an option. I have worked extremely hard and made many financial and career sacrifices to get to where I am today. This has always played a major role in my decision making, and my choice to fully pursue a full time career in fashion,

My journey has lead me here. After trusting myself, my abilities and my talent, I have fully emerged myself into the fashion industry and designing full time.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There’s so much to see and do! I’d definitely start with a relaxing beach day, Laguna and Manhattan Beach are two of my favorites. Secondly, a rooftop dinner (Harriet’s) is a must, and a night cocktail at (Pump) in West Hollywood. Lastly, a city scenic hike (Kenneth Hahn Park) to start the day off then there are so many amazing brunch spots, bottomless mimosas are my absolute favorite (Overland Cafe) so brunch is a definite must! Dinner at one of my most favorite restaurants ( Post & Beam).

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?
I believe that everyone who has touch my life has played a role in where I am today is some form. However, there are some very important women in my life (mom, sister, wife) , my son and my former coworkers at Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services in Inglewood, Ca! Without all of their support, motivation and persistence, I couldn’t have possibly achieved what I have thus far.

Website: www.tokiofever.com

Instagram: @tokiofever

Image Credits
Credit: Friendzella Hardeman Instagram: @just.zella