Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaya Phillips
Hi Kaya, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born deaf in Memphis, TN, and went through mainstream school, where I spent years nonverbal. After countless therapy sessions, I was finally able to speak, becoming a successful Deaf oralism student. It wasn’t until my senior year of high school, when I took a theater sign language class, that I learned sign language for the first time. That experience opened my eyes to a missing part of myself—my Deaf identity. From that moment, I fully immersed myself in Deaf culture and embraced who I truly was.
Even from a young age, I knew I didn’t want to work for someone else my entire life. After graduating with my first degree, God spoke to me, giving me a vision and a plan. Today, I am the CEO and founder of Drizzle_nd_Deaf, where I merge fashion, education, and advocacy. I curate special events, design specialized apparel to make Deaf individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered, and teach sign language classes. I also integrate the art of sign language into spoken word and poetry, ensuring that the Deaf community is represented and celebrated in all forms of expression.
Today, I’m doing what I love, helping others embrace their uniqueness and inspiring them to be themselves. Through Drizzle and Deaf, I want people to see the superhero within them and understand the power in who they are.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t been smooth, but there’s nothing I can’t overcome. I’m learning as I go, and while the obstacles—like the lack of resources and knowledge—are real, I’m determined to keep moving forward. Some of the struggles I’ve faced include learning about my Deaf identity while being the only Deaf person in my family. I’ve also had to navigate harmful myths, like the false belief that Deaf people are not smart, but dumb, and have faced language deprivation. Despite all of this, I’m committed to pushing through every challenge.
As a Black Deaf woman, this journey is new territory, but I’m loving the process of figuring it all out. This isn’t just work for me—it’s something I’m deeply passionate about, and the experience has been truly rewarding. I see myself as a leader and trailblazer, paving the way for those who will come after me.
Of course, no vision or plan ever goes exactly as expected, but I’ve learned to press forward through every obstacle. For me, there’s nothing I can’t tackle. I’m committed to this ride, not just for myself, but for my communities. I constantly remind myself to keep going, knowing that in the end, it will all pay off.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My business is focused on connecting the hearing and Deaf communities in a unique way through fashion, education, and specialized events. My goal is to bridge the gap between the two worlds, creating opportunities for them to come together and enjoy activities like Deaf paint-and-sip nights, bowling etc. What sets me apart is that I’ve turned my disability into a superpower. I see it as a strength, and I’m always seeking to grow and learn—whether that’s mastering different sign languages, ensuring inclusivity, or deepening my understanding of the diverse cultures within the Deaf community.
I founded my business with the vision of creating a space where Deaf individuals can feel truly seen and heard, while also inviting hearing individuals to participate and offer their support. My aim is to foster deeper connections between these communities. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue my doctoral degree in audiology and establish my own practice, where I can continue to serve and uplift the Deaf community in meaningful ways.
I design and create merchandise, teach sign language in non-traditional settings, and curate events that provide opportunities for learning and enjoyment, all while working to break down language barriers between the Deaf and hearing communities.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered countless remarkable individuals—so many that it’s impossible to name them all. I’ve been blessed with an outpouring of support, love, and encouragement from people who’ve shared my posts, offered inspiration, or purchased from my business. Every gesture has meant the world to me.
I want to give a special shoutout to my mother Stephanie Phillips, who raised me as a single parent. She walked this path with me, never treating me differently and refusing to let me believe that my disability could hold me back. She continuously pushed and supported me, ensuring I always believed in my potential.
I’m deeply grateful for everyone who has believed in me, represented my brand, or allowed me to experiment and grow with them. Being acknowledged and spotlighted, particularly as one of the top business owners in West Tennessee, has been an incredible honor. This recognition fuels my passion, and I am beyond thankful for every person who has played a part in this journey.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drizzle_nd_deaf/profilecard/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drizzleNdeaf
- Website: https://drizzlenddeafkp.com/
