2024 Fellow Focus: Kuku Richards + Museum of Diversity
Audacious leader, lifelong learner, cultural diversity champion…2024 Fellow Kuku Richards of Museum of Diversity shares more about her journey as a social impact entrepreneur.
What life experiences propelled you into the entrepreneurial space and made you decide to be your own boss?
I would say that one of the most impactful phases of my life was the six years I served in the U.S. Army. That experience revealed strengths I never knew I possessed, and fostered within me adaptability, resilience, and leadership skills. It taught me how to be a good leader and how to be a good teammate. These experiences were vital when I became a general manager of a museum in London, which expanded my insights into the sector and the many challenges that exist within it. Most notably, I could see the lack of diversity that exists in the museum sector, not only in the leadership but also in the narratives that were being told. These experiences, coupled with the realization that current institutions lacked the adequate pace for making necessary changes, motivated me to innovate and drive meaningful transformation within the sector.
What do you enjoy most about being a founder?
The most gratifying aspect of being a founder is the realization that I am actively pursuing my purpose of creating transformative and educational content that empowers numerous lives. Additionally, I love the freedom to be creative, acquire new skills, and engage with like-minded individuals who share a passion for innovation and growth.
What do you wish someone had told you before you started your entrepreneurial journey?
I wish someone had told me what a roller coaster of emotional highs and lows come with entrepreneurship. I wish that someone had shared with me that the journey is not just about business strategies; but also about managing stress, self-doubt, and celebrating small victories.
Tell us about an experience you had as an entrepreneur or in starting your company that exemplified one of Camelback's core values: "Belief in Mission + Vision"; "Unafraid of Failure"; "Constant Learner"; "Humble + Hungry"; and "Give First."
I would describe myself as a ‘Constant Learner.’ I love soaking up new knowledge, and it's become a crucial part of steering the growth of Museum of Diversity, particularly during times when outsourcing tasks weren’t feasible due to budget constraints. Take, for instance, the virtual reality museum I envisioned – we couldn't afford a VR specialist, so I rolled up my sleeves and taught myself how to build it.
Let's talk about your legacy. What is your vision for the kind of world you hope to create through your venture?
My venture's legacy will be one of continued dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices, fostering dialogue, and championing social change on a global scale. It will foster a world where people not only acknowledge cultural diversity but actively seek to understand, celebrate, and embrace it. This understanding will be the foundation of creating unity and cooperation across different communities and nations.
Museum of Diversity's greatest legacy will be the empowerment of BIPOC youth to become future leaders who embrace their unique identities and cultures with confidence and pride.
What's your favorite book or podcast that you draw entrepreneurial inspiration from?
Book: Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted - Suleika Jaouad
Podcast: Earn Your Leisure Podcast
We know balancing the demands of entrepreneurship and life can be challenging. What are some of your favorite ways to prioritize your self-care?
Self-care to me includes many activities, such as maintaining a health-conscious lifestyle, immersing myself in nature, trotting around the globe, spending time with loved ones, and cuddling with my fur-babies every chance I get. I also try to find humor every day because I believe that laughter really is the best medicine.
Anything else you want to share about yourself and/or your Camelback Fellowship journey?
I am incredibly excited to be a part of a community that values authenticity, resilience, and one that encourages audacious pursuits for large-scale, positive impact. I look forward to the great growth I foresee for myself and for my company as I embark on this Fellowship.
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