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

Hi Selina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my business was my daughter. My preemie princess Ke’Niya. I felt like I sat in my grief and sorrow long enough and now I need to do something about it.

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?
My non profit organization, Ke’Niya Speaks Foundation, Inc, was started in memory of my preemie princess, Ke’Niya. My non profit organization, Ke’Niya Speaks Foundation, Inc. was established in memory of my daughter Ke’Niya Ealey. I gave birth prematurely at 25 weeks and 4 days. Our Preemie Princess passed away in the NICU, at 4 months and 1 day, just days before she was scheduled to be released to come home. Ke’Niya’s death was unexpected, and from that day until now, our lives were changed forever. Our main mission is to raise awareness and educate the community on how important prematurity is. Ke’Niya’s Foundation will also be a support system to parents that are going through the same difficult situation. It did take awhile to form her foundation because I was battling the anger and grieving process but I then realized I can no longer just sit in it and have to do something in memory of my baby.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d take my friend to a few of my fave restaurants, Saitos, Brio, BJs Brewhouse and Bahama Breeze. We’d also go to a mall to do some shopping. Hotel on the beach somewhere on Singer Island. 2 day trip to Orlando to visit the Theme Parks.

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’d like to dedicate my shouts out to my daughter in heaven, Ke’Niya Ealey. Mommy loves and misses you so much! I’m doing all of this for you baby! My mother, Gina Evans (Jones). Thank you for teaching me how to be a strong woman and never give up! You are my super woman! I love you!! My Apostle, Devonna Tommie. Thank you for believing in me and motivating me. Not once have you judged me and you remain so kind and loving and non judgemental. I really do appreciate and love you! My kidney donor, Stephanie Grant. You are amazing! Thank you for saving my life and giving me a 2nd chance. There’s none like you! I love you with all my kidneys!

My one and only sibling, my sister Serena. I’m glad you got a chance to be an auntie like you always wanted to be. I enjoyed seeing how you interacted (and aggravated) Ke’Niya. It’s so dope to know that my only daughter was born on your birthday. We love you!
Last but not least, I want to thank my husband Kenneth for being such a great father to our princess. When I was scared or showed fear, you stepped up to let us know it’s okay. You have been nothing but amazing to me and thru my grieving process. I know you grieve in your own way as well but you have decided to be strong and positive and supportive for me. I can still see the love you have for Ke’Niya even when you visit her gravesite. We love you so much K-Bo!

Website: www.keniyaspeaks.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/keniyaspeaksfoundation

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