Today we’d like to introduce you to Jakeyla Cowlin.
Jakeyla, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Graphic design has always been in my wheelhouse of talents. However, up until now, I only viewed it as a side hustle instead of a business.
Since the 6th grade, my dream career has always been a psychologist. In December 2016, I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Auburn University (War Eagle!). Unfortunately, following graduation my mother (who has Lupus) was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer on January 17, 2017. I willingly paused my pursuit to go to grad school in order to focus on my mother’s health (Love you, Jacks!). Thankfully, on November 30, 2018, she received the good news of being cancer free!
Through some unforeseen circumstances, I was later let go from my job. A few months down the road, I decided to make a change for the better. It took me being unemployed, depressed, lost, and newly pregnant to evaluate my course of life. Motherhood was right around the corner, so it was time to take a different approach. Although my loved ones are very supportive and never pressured me about getting a job, I desired to achieve income to support my family.
Therefore, I never planned on graphic design becoming a huge part of my life. However, Create With Key allows me to fulfill my passion for helping others apart from my original plan.
Has it been a smooth road?
My journey has not been easy. However, the circumstances I face lead me to appreciate my blessings so much more. My main two struggles have been my mother going through cancer and becoming unemployed in February 2018.
With my mother, it was as if I was watching my superhero discover her kryptonite. However, witnessing and experiencing cancer with her made me stronger. Through her, I had a front row seat to what strength looks like in human form. As a result, the experience taught me to never question my limits.
Finances have definitely been an issue as well. Going from being able to financially support myself and my mother to not making any income was life-changing. However, it humbled me and gave me the hunger to improve my situation.
Sometimes, it’s all about how you look at your circumstances. They can either make you or break you.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m a self-taught freelance graphic designer who specializes in logos, flyers, and invitations. Although, I’m up for any challenge! My eagerness to provide each client with a satisfied product always triumph over any obstacles I’m up against.
The amount of work and time I put into Create With Key is what makes me proudest to call it my business. I can confidently stand behind this brand because I know the countless hours I spent building my portfolio, creating my website, studying YouTube videos, and generating a clientele. It’s a huge accomplishment and a reflection of my hard work.
My customer service sets me apart from others. Helping people will always mean more to me than money, and I truly believe it shows through my customer service. I’m not satisfied until my client is 100% satisfied.
Do you have a lesson or advice you’d like to share with young women just starting out?
To young women: aligning your passions with your talents is the perfect combination that results in happiness and success! The road will get tough, but your hardships are going to be what define you. Stay resilient and know that only YOU can stop you! Make sure that you learn the lesson(s) that God intended during each season and never stop growing!
Contact Info:
- Website: createwithkey.com
- Phone: 256.401.7043
- Email: createwithkey@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/createwithkey
- Facebook: facebook.com/createwithkey
- Other: instagram.com/keylaconcheetah
Image Credit:
Captured by Chris
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