Today we’d like to introduce you to Destiny Lipede.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
As a child, I was always interested in music. My parents put me into piano lessons around the age of seven. For those who do know, piano, or any other private music lesson, can be expensive. My parents did not have a lot of money. My mom was a teacher in Atlanta and my dad was not a citizen. With is mind, my grandmother is to thank because she was determined to have me in lessons. While in lessons, my sister and I were [at the time] among the few black kids in this music school. I knew that I was different, not because of physical attributes but because of what was poured into me at such a young age. I knew that I was meant to be in the realm of music. It was my purpose.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Smooth? Absolutely not! Again music is expensive, so I had experienced going without lessons at various times, inconsistency in teachers and doubt in my dreams. Being that I didn’t come from a lot of money, I was very observant of what jobs I “should’ve” aimed for – doctor, lawyer, etc. I began to pray to God that HE would direct my path and what I should do with my life [this is me as a child], because whatever I am going to do, I have to do it well, because I want to make money and make my family and GOD proud.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Keystone Music Academy is a music studio catered to kids/people of color who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford music lessons in a formal setting. Through Keystone Music Academy, I am able to reach children within the community by not only teaching music but the importance of accountability and purpose.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was always curious. My mom is a teacher, so I always admired education. However, when asked if I would like to be a teacher, I would say no because I believed it to be a great responsibility. BUT, I am a teacher, not only for KMA but in Fulton County and it is a responsibility indeed but I am especially excited each day to be able to teach young minds every day!
Outside of my curiosity, I am very ambitious. If I see something, I get it; no if, ands or buts about it. I always am eager to start [and complete] new projects. I am huge in creating, I am a writer, an avid crafter and puzzle connoisseur.
Contact Info:
- Email: destinylipede16@gmail.com
- Website: https://destinylipede16.wixsite.com/destinysade
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/destinysade_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destiny.lipede.7/
Image Credits
Audrey Diaz, photograpaher Pictured: Beverly Brannon, Gavin Davis, Marlee Chaney-Morton, Addison Dardy, Makaila Evans, Haiden Walters, Nathaniel Lipede
