Meet Lekeda Coley | Manager & Entrepreneur

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

Hi LeKeda, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
Just to give a little bit of a back story, on my 38th birthday trip to St. Lucia, my daughter told me she was pregnant. A revelation that initially filled me with anger and frustration. The thought of becoming a young grandmother was overwhelming, and I struggled to come to terms with the changes this would bring to our lives.

However, everything shifted with the birth of Kalaya. Being a witness to my a daughter giving birth for the first time transformed my perspective; I felt an overwhelming love that made me appreciate the beauty of new beginnings and family bonds. Inspired by this experience, I decided to launch a business called Kalaya Kare. A hair care line dedicated to helping people with their hair growth journey.

The idea for Kalaya Kare stemmed from my desire to empower others, just as Kalaya had empowered me to embrace life’s surprises. I wanted to create a brand that celebrates growth—both in hair and in life—reflecting the joy and new perspective my granddaughter brought into my world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a teen mom at 17 and welcoming my second child at 22, I’ve faced so many challenges that shaped my journey. When you’re a teen parent, you’re immediately labeled a statistic in the eyes of society. So I had to start being an adult early by balancing motherhood, a social life, and a career. After many jobs, I landed at the United States Postal Service where I spent the last 17 years.

What sets me apart in my career is my resilience and commitment to customer service. I started off as a mail carrier. We’re taking long hours walking that pavement day and night, 12 to sometimes 16 hr days. Crazy right? But hey, that’s the job.

Getting to this point was not easy. Juggling motherhood, a social life and a demanding job required immense sacrifice and determination. There were days I wanted to throw in the towel due to my mental health being under attack. But I had to learn to prioritize self-care and lean on my family and friends for support. I had to tell myself that it’s okay to seek support from those who love and support you. This journey taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, the power of a strong support system, as these lessons have become an essential part of my personal and professional ethos.

I want the world to know that my story is one of hope and resilience. My experiences as a young mother have fueled my passion for helping others, and I aim to inspire those facing similar challenges. My brand is rooted in authenticity, community, and empowerment, reflecting both my personal journey and professional dedication. Which is what drove me to start a hair care line. Each bottle of Kalaya Kare is handmade with love, and with all natural ingredients to provide nourishment and enhance your hair growth journey. This is my new passion. I’m determined to leave a legacy that my children and grandchilden can be proud of.

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?
Wow, I mean it’s so much to do in the city. I would say for a good time, and chill vibes, we’re definitely going to WEHO. If it was a week long trip, brunch and the beach is a must. We’d head over to some inner city food places like Hawkins in Watts for some good food. My opinion, if the service doesn’t have some attitude, then the food ain’t good. LOL. The Warehouse in Marina Dey Rey is good spot as well that we’d head over to. It’s something about eating by the water that excites me. We’d also have to hit up an improv comedy spot for some good laughs. We’d chill at Dockweiler Beach for a day because it’s always something going on. I mean, who doesn’t love the beach?? But in all seriousness, the beach to me can be therapeutic. Can’t forget about a mini shopping spree. Definitely head over to South Coast Plaza, then to Citadel Outlets. Then we’ll add a museum in the mix. To end the trip, a Day party at a club or lounge for the win.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
1st and foremost, in everything i do, I thank Jehovah. In reflecting on my journey, I’m reminded of Proverbs 3:5-6 “trust in Jehovah with all your heart, and not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways take notice of him, and he will make your paths straight” This wisdom resonates deeply with me.

I want to dedicate this shoutout to all of my loved ones, whose love has been my foundation, and whose encouragement has propelled me forward. Their belief in me has made all the difference, providing the strength and perspective I needed when I doubted myself.

Together, they’ve shown me the power and the importance of leaning on others. Each of these individuals has played a vital role in shaping my path, reinforcing the idea that success is rarely a solo journey. I’m forever grateful for their contributions to my life.

Website: https://kalayakare.com

Instagram: kalaya_kare

Facebook: kalayakare