Leah Kyaio’s fight against Social Injustice and the Call to Drive Systematic Change

The vision of Leah Kyaio’s organisation “With Respect LLC” is to positively impact individuals and organizations in ways that decrease systemic oppression and increase the resilience of People and their Communities with a sense of respect and belonging. It is Leah’s intention along with her fellow colleagues that such work provides the foundations and “shoulders of giants” for and to the Seventh Generation.

CrowdInk were fortunate enough to dig a little deeper into Leah’s story, chatting one-on-one with the entrepreneur about all things resilience, respect and activism.

What’s the Inspiration Behind Your Business?

Born to a family with drugs and guns as the family business, lost my mother, two brothers and a sister and it was made clear (verbally and behaviourally) that I would be harder to kill because I was white-skinned and consequently more accountable (people would notice, ask questions, etc).  My mother and siblings were all darker skinned native Americans than I am. Experiencing this allowed me to recognise my white privilege and what it meant for those who are not white. The injustice I saw/see is the motivation and inspiration for the work I do.

What is the Problem You’re Trying to Solve? Or USP?

The injustice of oppression based on race, class, gender, beliefs, etc. in individuals and organisations. The solution is in increasing understanding and teaching tools of respect and belonging to navigate diverse ideas. This leads to dignity and justice: doing diversity differently.

Who is Your Ideal Customer? 

Organisations ready to make true systemic change and those that experience resistance to traditional diversity and inclusion work.

Have you Been Impacted by Covid, if so how have you Pivoted Your Business?

We were impacted by COVID with cancellation of contracts and presentations. We pivoted in innovative ways by, not only taking our services (training, coursework, consulting, and coaching) virtually, but by becoming experts in the relationships and skills necessary for true virtual learning. That means we give participants the skills and tools to be engaged and responsive learners in the virtual environment.

What are Your Goals for 2022 and Beyond?

To change the world! I believe we have the tools, strategies, and services necessary to make systemic change that will ultimately change the world. We need to increase our exposure and expand our sphere of influence.

What Advice do you Have for Other Aspiring Female Entrepreneurs? 

First and foremost, do your personal work. Owning your own business is like getting a PhD in personal development.

You can connect with Leah via:

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/leahkyaio

Email is leah@with-respect.com