Kiva Williams is an Atlanta native who has made Florida her home. After attending college at the University of South Florida with a degree in Dance Studies, she married her college sweetheart, Nathan Williams, II. Together they have 3 beautiful children, Nathan, III Noah, and Nia, and have lived in Tampa Bay for over 20 years.
In 2018, after spending 15 years in the corporate finance world, Kiva pursued her entrepreneurial journey by creating her family blog, The Fun Foodie Mama. Through her blog, she connects Tampa Bay families with the best activities and food to experience in the surrounding areas. Her blog has been featured on the cover of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine, Wesley Chapel Weekly and she is a regular contributor for the WFLA Daytime TV show.
Her true passion lies in supporting minority youth and empowering them to be the best they can be despite what society may think about them.
Kiva is the founder of Mahogany Kids Fine Arts Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose mission is to empower minority youth through music, art, and dance.
What inspired the start of “The Fun Foodie Mama”?
I abruptly quit my corporate job in 2015. As an “accidental” stay-at-home mom I found that I needed an outlet to tap into. Being a Mom 24/7 left me wanting to explore things outside of my mom role.
What has been the biggest challenge of running a brand like “The Fun Foodie Mama”?
Building a brand takes time. So you must stay consistent and have patience. As an entrepreneur, you might be the only one that can clearly see your vision. It may seem lonely at times but when you remember your “why” it helps to keep going.
How does “The Fun Foodie Mama” impact the community?
In general, I impact the community by keeping them up to date on new shops, restaurants, and events happening around town. I’m also a proud supporter of Black-owned businesses. I enjoy highlighting BOB to help drive traffic to their business. As a black female and business owner, it’s important to celebrate and uplift my community.
You recently joined the Non-Profit world by creating the Mahogany Kids Fine Arts Foundation, can you tell us about the work you are doing?
Yes! I have a passion for minority youth and fine arts. I wanted to create a space where I can empower them through the arts. Our main goal is to build and hosts programs where they can tap into their creative side. As you know, many minority youth face different problems than their peers solely due to their skin color. At Mahogany Kids Fine Arts Foundation I want them to know that they are heard, seen, and cared for.
Where do you hope to see your brand in the next 3-5 years?
I would love to host cooking demos, host a TV show, get a seasoning and cookware brand off the ground.
What advice do you have for the next generation of entrepreneurs?
Do the work. Don’t get caught up in trying to be social media famous, do the work FIRST and the fame & fortune will follow.
What does being “Pretty and Black Owned” mean to you?
Being proud of who God made me to be. Not shrinking myself so others feel more comfortable. Standing TALL.
Social media Links: WWW.instagram.com/thefunfoodiemama
Www.Facebook.com/thefunfoodiemama
@mahoganykidsfineartsfoundation
Website: www.thefunfoodiemama.com
