Today we’d like to introduce you to MK Hines.
Hi MK, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m the Founder of Check On Your Black Friends. Originally from Minneapolis, MN. I moved to Los Angeles 2019 to continue my career as a Creative Director, working with music artists and fashion models.
It all fell apart quick. My business partner and I were at odds over living expenses and creative direction. A heated argument that leads to public dispute and turmoil. My reputation took a hit, business declined, my close friends turned their backs, the love of my life left me via text message. I was down bad and it seemed my goals of becoming a force in entertainment had slipped away.
Depression and suicidal thoughts came over me daily. I blamed everyone but myself for the situations in place without taking ownership and accountability.
My longtime friends Kealand and Vince gave me the encouragement needed to start over. That was the motivation I needed to bounce back and get it out the mud.
After months of rejections from top company’s in the entertainment space such as Fox, Viacom, WarnerMedia and countless more, I was frustrated but optimistic. It motivated me to go deep within my genius and create opportunity for generational wealth and positive influence. Check On Your Black Friends was born.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Timing is everything. There were days I thought about packing up and moving back home to Minneapolis. Waive the white flag if you will. I’m proud to have stayed and taken the unpaved road.
Challenges along the way included working unstable jobs to stay afloat. Not all employers respect the entrepreneurial grind of their employees.
Loneliness was a challenge as well. Not too many people like to admit but feeling alone is hard. Whether you are dealing with past trauma or striving to reach your goals, loneliness is real and takes a toll on our well-being.
Support. I’m not just talking about family and friends supporting the movement. It was hard getting support from Black-owned businesses.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Check On Your Black Friends. is a brand on a mission to highlight empathy and support surrounding black trauma, mental health, and relationship awareness. We are dedicated to enhancing important conversations with the Black people you care about.
Real Black Effects:
Love and Heartbreak
Family, Faith, and Loss
Financial ups and downs
Police Brutality and Racism
Education and Information
Health and Wellness
Through our inclusive apparel, creative content, and social community we want to make it easier to communicate with your family, friends, colleagues, and allies.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Taking a L doesn’t mean taking a Loss. It means taking a Lesson. Learn from your Lessons.
Pricing:
- $25 (dad hat)
- $35 (chocolate text tee)
- $45 (logo hoodie)
Contact Info:
- Email: checkonyourblackfriends@gmail.com
- Website: www.checkonyourblackfriends.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/checkonyourblackfriends
- Facebook: Facebook.com/checkonyourblackfriends
- Twitter: Twitter.com/coybfofficial
- Youtube: YouTube.com/checkonyourblackfriends
Image Credits:
MK Hines
