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

Hi Kennedy, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
The most important lesson that I have learned in my Instagram career is investing in my brand. When I say investing, I’m talking about financially, time-wise, and effort in networking. When I started taking my social media career seriously, I was featured on a police officer’s page (Officer Tommy Norman – @Tnorman23) with over 1 Million followers. He displays bringing the community and also working hands-on with the community of North Little Rock, Arkansas. When people saw me on his page and found out I was going to college in Dallas, Texas…people invested in me, and they didn’t even know me. So they sent in different gifts/money that would help me be successful in school. When I sat down and thought about it, I realized that I could be investing in myself—my time, dedication, and some money to get where I’m at today—and also taking the time to network. That is very important to get to know people that can help you along the way. AND NEVER be afraid to LEARN. That is one of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my social media career.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I started this platform, I always wanted to do something great for other people. I’ve always wanted people who did not have a voice to have one on my forum. In accomplishing this, I always remained kind to others. My page is safe for my followers and potential followers. I had a tough time becoming social with other people at the beginning of my social media career. Social anxiety weighed hard on me to deal with, so I forced myself to converse with other people that were CEOs, Millionaires, and people who were making passive incomes. Not only that, I listen to anyone that decides to give me advice. I was raised to understand that if someone has something to tell you for your own good, no matter if they are prosperous, homeless, poor, old, or young. LISTEN. What I want people to understand about me and the brand of “KenWest” is that I was not always dealt fair cards; however, I learned to turn every test into a testimony and remained genuine and authentic in everything I do. Understand that every setback is destined for a major comeback!

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 I have friends visiting the city, the first spot I would take them to is Pangea. Pangea is a black-owned restaurant and bar founded by Chef Kev. Chef Kev is known for beating Bobby Flay with his dish “Have Merci,” which is featured on the menu or the Stuffed Salmon. For the adult beverage, I usually get a Pangea peach bellini swirl. Next, I would introduce them to The Star in Frisco, Texas. It has different restaurants and bars to meet fellow Cowboy fans or enjoy a chill meal or drink. Lastly, I would suggest the Aquarium where you can see some of your favorite animals from under the sea. The Dallas Zoo, where you can see the animals you grew up watching on animal planet and learn amazing facts about them, or Pin Stack, where you can go bowling, rock climbing, or playing arcade games. The following places can be very entertaining and interactive on another level. Dallas can be very adventurous; you have to know where to look.


Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

My shoutout would have to go to my village. First and foremost, I have to dedicate my accomplishments to God because without him, I am NOTHING. Secondly, I acknowledge my heavenly angels, My Great Grandmother, and my Granddaddy. Those two alone have instilled so much in me, and it made me want to go so much harder in life. Thirdly, my Mother and GG, wh0 nurtured me and defended my honor without hesitation, always. Then my Daddy, who is building an even more robust, young, black woman in this thing called life.

Lastly, my brother, Tristan. He will be forever, not only my brother but my best friend. I love you guys so much and thank you for being my village. I wouldn’t be here without my village.

Website: https://linktr.ee/kenwest16

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenwest16

Image Credits
Von Harris (@VonHarrisProductions) MJ Dudley (@mj.dudley)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.