Meet Matt & K.Ay’Nea Riley | Co-Founders & Organizers

We had the good fortune of connecting with Matt & K.Ay’Nea Riley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Matt & K.Ay’Nea, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
We believe our desire to spread awareness about the energy of “Oneness” to the community and the world has a huge social impact on how humanity moves forward in building a more accepting, loving and diverse way of living amongst one another. Through the pathway of ancient energy practices and teachings, we discover the power of modern interconnectedness.

Heart of Oneness Holistic Expo, our business platform, brings forth a weekend experience whose impact goes far beyond 2.5 days as we begin to see subtle changes in small families and communities that create a ripple and domino effect throughout the world energetically. This expo platform opens up the space for understanding that we are all interconnected not only in our physical communities, but within our energy fields as well, no matter how much perceived distance is between us.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Our business began back in 2011 as a personal journey to wholeness and balance. As we grew in our own personal lives, we were organically led to many of the right places, people and situations that aligned us to offer a platform that could support this holistic lifestyle for others. As fellow energy healers and participants of many holistic shows over the years, we have a deep reverence of how vitally important a holistic approach to life is and what it takes to make it successful for everyone. We are most excited about the opportunity to continue to be of service to humanity and for the shifts that will come about because of being able to do this work together. We are most proud of our transparency and willingness to be vulnerable in both actions and beingness. These last two years taught us many things but above all it taught us the power of faith and trust in universal alignment even amidst a global storm. Our first 2.5-day event in Edison NJ was set for March 23-25, 2020. Two weeks before we were to open, the state was shut down and all events canceled. Rather than fall into isolation and despair our community rallied together and held a 2-day virtual roll out of the expo on Facebook. It was one of the most defining moments in our lives to witness so many come together to ensure that light would prevail as we embarked on navigating this most pinnacle time in humanities collective experience. This taught us that even through adversity, miracles can occur. Our desire is to set the bar on holistic events, not because we are the flashiest but because we value relationships and connection before all other things. Our mission is to build others up and it begins within our own hearts, homes, communities and businesses. We all have the right to live freely and to choose what works for each individual. Inclusiveness and acceptance are the new foundation for the future. Within this field of heart collaboration, everyone is welcomed and deeply cherished.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When visiting LA with a friend, we want to emphasize that Los Angeles also has a holistic and peaceful essence to it. We would recommend going to Signal Hill for a beautiful sunrise. Beginning your day to the calmness of the morning and yoga in this space is breathtaking. You can enjoy a nice walk along the path that provides almost 360 views. Parking is also free which is very convenient! The Rose Bowl Flea Market is a wonderful day-time activity if you are in the mood for exercise, walking and discovering truly unique products. The vendors here are one of a kind as they have handmade clothing and accessories, to unique vintage trinkets, to home-wear. Parking is free but be sure to come early so you can visit all the amazing booths!
To refresh and reset, the Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens is a beautiful oasis perfect for meditating, reflecting and simply being present in nature. From the lush gardens to the fish swimming in the fountains, this is one of the most peaceful places to be. Our favorite spot to meditate is at the Travertine Marble Labyrinth!
As we promote a holistic and wellness-based lifestyle, there are countless health-friendly spots for food. Some of our favorites include Flower Burger, with vegan burgers bright with all natural colorful dyes. For a sit-down and more experience based ambiance, head to Gracias Madre – a Mexican inspired vegan restaurant. Enjoy the back patio and flavorful eats! For breakfast, check out the plant based eatery – Green Table Cafe. This is a vegan hidden gem that has bowls, juices, paninis, and more, all utilizing organic, local, vegan and fresh ingredients.

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?
Our organization and community embody the principles that support the knowing that together we achieve so much more. Our shoutout of inspiration and gratitude goes to all the participants, volunteers and attendees that make this show what it is. Each unique individual brings forth their own spark of desire and creative energy that pulls this entire experience together. It’s a vibrational dance and synergy that supports the other and we know that without them this event simply would not exist. Over the years, we have cultivated many relationships with others whose mission became the heartbeat and purpose for this shared life calling. What began in our hearts many years ago became a manifested reality with the help and assistance of everyone who desired something more for themselves. Life reflects what one desires for themselves.

Website: https://www.heartofonenessholisticexpo.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartofonenessholisticexpo/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Heartofonenessholisticexpo

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5zUNRIR9JDULZumeyS3ZCQ

Image Credits
Heart of Oneness