Picture captured during her performance at the LMNT POETRY SERIES: A Poetry Night for the Voiceless
When Kiana McKinney takes the stage, there is an undeniable aura about her. Her voice, powerful and commanding, cuts through the air with a force that not only captivates the audience but also inspires them. It is the voice of someone who knows exactly who she is and the impact she wishes to leave on the world. Kiana’s vocal range and stage presence exude confidence, yet these qualities are just one facet of her multifaceted identity. More than a performer, Kiana is a mentor, facilitator, poet, and a proud member of the Poet Sistakeeper and I Define ME Movement. But even these titles barely scratch the surface of who Kiana McKinney truly is.
Beneath her public persona lies a personal journey of self-discovery, faith, and resilience. Kiana’s artistry, deeply rooted in her upbringing and shaped by pivotal life experiences, reflects not just her own strength but also the stories of those who have no voice. Through her poetry, Kiana offers a profound sense of connection, hope, and empowerment to her audience. In this thoughtful Q&A, Kiana delves into the roots of her creativity, the challenges she’s faced, and the purpose that fuels her ongoing journey as a poet and speaker.
Q&A with Kiana McKinney
Q: How did your upbringing and early environment shape the person you’ve become today?
A: I remember as a kid, loving movies that showed artistry, like ATL, Hustle & Flow, Freedom Writers, and Akeelah and the Bee. All these movies had one thing in common – words. I fell in love with seeing how other people used words to express themselves or showcase their talent.
Q: In what ways did your family influence your understanding of self-expression and creativity?
A: My family influenced me by giving me the freedom to be myself. They let me wake them up, sometimes at 6 or 7 in the morning, just because I wanted them to hear something I had written.
Q: How do you cultivate and sustain the strength and confidence in your voice, even during challenging times?
A Honestly, I sustain my gift by reminding myself that it didn’t come from me – it came from God. So whenever I’m invited somewhere to speak, I tell myself, “You are here for a reason.” Even if my body feels nervous, my mind is confident.
Q: What pivotal life experiences helped you develop the confidence that resonates in your voice and writing?
A: A pivotal moment for me was when I was 11 years old. I found two poetry folders in the trunk of my aunt’s car. They belonged to a man who was incarcerated. His work allowed me to visualize his stories, and it made me feel hopeful, even during dark times. I wanted to evoke that same feeling in others through my own work.
Q: How do you envision your voice continuing to inspire and connect with people on a deeper level?
A: I plan to keep traveling. I’ve had the honor of speaking in several states, whether I’m invited personally or just happen to drop by an open mic while in town. I want to continue connecting with people wherever I go.
Q: What methods or practices help you maintain authenticity while projecting strength and confidence in your work?
A: My voice is my superpower, and I refuse to walk around powerless. I tell my story, and as a sistakeeper, I tell the stories of women and girls who can’t speak for themselves. I always encourage people to speak their truth.
Q: How do you define personal success in your poetry career, and what has been your most significant milestone thus far?
A: I define success by recognizing that my gift might look different from everyone else’s, but they have gifts too, which doesn’t make me any better than them. One of my biggest milestones was publishing my poetry journal for my 30th birthday and having a signing at the Saint Louis History Museum. Growing up, I used to visit the museum, so to make magic happen in my own backyard was a full-circle moment for me.
Q: Can you reflect on a specific moment when you felt most proud of your work as a poet or creator?
A: I feel most proud when people anticipate hearing me speak. Little ol’ me, in this big world, and people remember how my words make them feel. I’m grateful to be trusted with this gift.
Q: How have the challenges and triumphs in your personal journey influenced the themes you explore in your poetry?
A: My journey is what made me. I learned at a very young age that your journey, designed by God especially for you, is not to be compared or competed with. Watch your gift make room for you when you’re not focused on everyone else’s path.
Q: What impact do you hope your poetry will have on readers, both now and in the future?
A: I hope that when people read or hear my work, they remember the tremble they felt under their feet and the glimpse of hope in their eyes. I want to leave a lasting impression.
Kiana McKinney’s voice is much more than an instrument of sound—it is a beacon of hope, a storyteller’s tool, and a powerful force for change. Her journey as a poet has been marked by deep introspection, faith, and a commitment to amplifying the voices of others. As she continues to inspire through her words, Kiana remains dedicated to showing up authentically, using her gift not just for herself, but for all those who need to be reminded of their own strength. Whether on stage or on paper, Kiana’s voice is one that resonates with truth, purpose, and an unwavering belief in the power of words.
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Lukumi Arlota – Contributing Writer
Lukumi Arlota is a mental health advocate, black empowerment activist, public speaker, and business owner.
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