Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevnae “Santana” Clark.
Kevnae, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started my clothing line in 2011 during my Senior Project class in high school. I really had not figured out what I was going to do with the rest of my life. My teacher suggested that I do my project on fashion – something that she could not have known would change my life forever. Seven years later, I have been blessed to travel all over the world, meet some of my favorite celebrities and artists, make a difference in my community and most importantly, be able to do something that I love.
Has it been a smooth road?
I do not believe that any road to success is smooth. However, I do believe that every obstacle that I have faced was for the best. Over these last few years, I have lost loved ones, money and time. These rough roads made me appreciate the smoother ones. No matter what it is you do in life, you will have some type of struggle. I think my biggest struggle would have to be reminding myself to keep faith during the hard times. You could be anybody. You may be a business owner, a college student or just a person that has a regular 9-5… keeping your head high (and your faith higher) is something that you have to do in order to deal with the struggle… or just life in general.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
SGDclothing is more than just a clothing line; we are a brand and a lifestyle based out of Gramercy, a small town in Louisiana. The line is a blend of modern day urban and streetwear with a little taste of Louisiana culture and lifestyle. I have done everything from designing, producing and marketing hats, bomber jackets, T-shirts, letterman jackets, accessories and much more. One of the things that I am most proud of as a company and brand, is the type of effect I have in my community. We have an annual Thanksgiving turkey giveaway for needy families. People in the area nominate families that are going through tough times financially or have faced catastrophe and we make sure that they get a little holiday cheer. Also, I have my own billboard across the street from my old high school. Being from a small town, people, where we come from, don’t really get to experience the world. I try to make sure that I do my part in showing the next generation that there are many different ways to be successful and leading them in the right direction. I would have to say the fact that I do what I love and I love what I do is what sets me apart from others. Fashion is my passion and because of that, I will never allow myself to give up. I have witnessed many other designers give up before they ever got started. I have definitely had my fair share of good times and bad times, but each day is a new blessing. I never take for granted what I have today and I never overthink about yesterday.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I have been in love with the city of Houston since I was 17. I strongly feel like it is a city of great opportunities not only business but for a living. No matter your career or passion Houston would be a great city to pursue it in.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.santanagangdesigns.com
- Email: sgdclothing@yahoo.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/SGDclothing
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/SGDclothing
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/SGDclothing
Image Credit:
Jazzart Photography
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