Today we’d like to introduce you to Kendramia Prestage.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My story began when I was working as a Data Analyst for Prairie View A&M University. I was called to do more than sit at a desk and fix computers all day. Although it served its purpose, I knew God had more in store for me. After three years, I left to pursue teaching. Through this journey, I learned a lot about myself and what I have to offer to the world. There came a point in life when I had a difficult time finding a job. Each time I interviewed or went to a job fair, I was told that I was better off freelancing and that I would not be happy working for them. Although I appreciated the honesty it was not helping my situation or so I thought.
One day, as I was in prayer and talking to God I heard Him ask me, “What do you have?” I reflected on the scripture 2 Kings 4:2 (NIV) “Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” I thought about the question for a bit. Then, I realized I have two degrees, a Bachelors degree in Business Management Information Systems and a Masters in Business Administration. I hold a wealth of experience in information technology, as an artist, a teacher, and a business owner. In addition to the other qualities I possess.
This was the birth of BUTTON UP GLOBAL. It was placed on me to create a business offering classes to youth in afterschool programs. It only made sense to use all of the knowledge I have acquired and offer it to others. The goal is to ensure our youth do not leave school without an understanding of why they are learning about math, social studies, science, and language arts. Students learn about career options while they are young so they have a direction to follow. Even if they choose to do something different in life, they will know how to find their way.
In order to do so, BUTTON UP GLOBAL creates classes designed around art, entrepreneurship, technology, and professional development. Students are now applying the knowledge they are learning. They are understanding for example how math applies to architecture and engineering. In addition to understanding the combination of art and robotics.
Students learn life lessons with each session as well. They learn about friendship and trust. They understand the power of words whether they are good or bad. Students understand to always do their best because it is enough.
Since the beginning, BUTTON UP GLOBAL has grown extensively each semester. We have opportunities to grow in Pearland ISD and Fort Bend ISD and have been impactful amongst many students in different cultures grades K-6.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Lol! No, it has been nowhere near a smooth ride.
I do not say this to discourage anyone but to encourage them in knowing that it is worth it. When you have a purpose in life bigger than you it will never be easy to get there nor to stay there. You have a major responsibility of turning peoples lives in a better direction and to lead them properly. In order for this to be done, you will go through major trials and tribulations that are not meant to break you down but to humble you and create a person of great character and morals. You will have friends and loved ones desert you. People will be angry with you for choosing better for yourself. And you will experience others wanting to abuse, use or misuse the gifts and talents God has given you. Do not be discouraged when you are faced with challenges such as these. Be encouraged. Galatians 6:9 (NIV) says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” No matter how difficult it gets, you find a way, a friend, a family member or something to help you get back up. Giving up is NEVER an option.
For those that are just starting out be flexible in your vision because it will change quite often. Understand in the beginning you are being given a small portion of the bigger picture. Each time you are ready for another portion to be revealed that means in some area of your life, you have grown and allowed for the next part of the picture to come through. Understand you will not always be able to do what you want to do in order to accomplish that which is before you, but you will do what you need to do. You will encounter people and minister to them in ways you never thought.
One of my greatest obstacles was pressing SEND after completing proposals for contract bids. I was encouraged by a friend to just do it. The best thing that can come out of it was YES!
Know and understand you do not walk alone on this journey and that when the vision was placed in front of you, that means you have already accomplished it, it has already been done and now it is waiting on you to achieve it.
So, I say, go for it! Run Your Race!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with BUTTON UP GLOBAL – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
Our mission at BUTTON UP GLOBAL is to see our students and participants succeed in life, triumph over obstacles, make an impact in their community and reach out to others along the way. Our goal is to build an understanding of STEAM components to align individuals with their destiny.
We focus on the application of knowledge learned so that students have a clear understanding of the subject matter and how that skill applies to the industry of interest.
What sets us apart is our vision for the individuals that we impact. We leave them with something to think about after each class. We make things make sense for them. We trust God to guide our steps so that we may properly guide the individuals we are leading.
What I am most proud of is that our classes are versatile and can be applied to individuals at any age and stage in life. Adults can also learn a lot from the classes we offer. The vision of our company continues to grow, so look forward to what we have in store next.
What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
The most important piece of advice I can give to a young woman starting her career is to know who you are and stay focused. Eliminate all distractions. Think with your mind and not your emotions. Do not be heartless but be humble, stand firm in who you are and what you believe. For me, my greatest strength was going to church, worshipping, reading my bible and going to the altar to lay down any heaviness that was on me and while I was there always asking God for direction and correction.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.buttonupglobal.com
- Email: buttonupglobal@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttonupglobal/?hl=en
Image Credit:
Ronald “Rdot” Smith, Colby “CJ” Walker Photography, Andre Brooks
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