Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Karen “KJ” Johnson, preferably KJ! I’m honored & humbled to serve as the Executive Director for Dress for Success Dallas. My passion runs deep for helping women own and embrace their brilliance by stepping fully into their feminine power! I also serve as the Programs Director for NAWBO-DFW (National Association of Women Business Owners) and I’m the CEO of The Konfident Woman! I’m a mother to an amazing & talented young man and Gigi to my beautiful Legacee, pronounced (Legacy).
You have a non-profit, how did that come about?
Dress for Success Dallas (DFSD) was founded by Noelle LeVeaux, publisher of D Magazine about 17 years ago, but a Board member vacancy presented itself in June of 2021. After about 2 weeks of being on the Board, I stepped into an interim role as ED, and within 30 days, the Board offered me the permanent role. It truly was a full circle moment as I had served in leadership roles for a few nonprofits earlier in my career.
Where does your passion to be of service to your community come from?
As far back as I can recall, I have always had a servant’s heart. But it wasn’t until I had the opportunity to serve as a servant leader for a nonprofit (earlier in my career) that it hit me one day that THIS IS WHAT I AM MEANT TO DO. In fact, I remember saying that I would even do it for free because it brought me so much joy to witness immediate transformation in the lives of these women. So, the foundation was set, and the timing was divinely arranged.
Where do you see your brand/business/passion in the next 5 years?
In 5 years, I see DFSD being the premier resource agency serving the women of DFW holistically by empowering, educating, and equipping them with strategies, and development tools to be the bold, brilliant, & bankable woman she is poised and positioned to be.
What has been your biggest accomplishment and why?
Each time I utilized my gift of teaching or speaking bringing a message of hope that results in a positive transformation that is the BEST accomplishment ever. Why? Because when one’s mindset has been elevated and granted access to the invaluable and significant W.O.M.A.N. they are, they become unstoppable.
What message is in your heart to share right now?
Ladies, hold your head up high, push your shoulders back, speak from your chest, and proclaim, “I AM a Warrior, strong & powerful, an Overcomer, who will triumph over it all, a Masterpiece, unique, gifted & a rare find, Anointed, chosen for this divine time & a Noble Queen, royalty & fine!” That’s the true meaning of W.O.M.A.N. Never forget who you are!
How can people get in contact with you? What’s up next for you?
Follow me on all social media platforms (LinkedIn, FB, & IG) Karen KJ Johnson.
You can email me at kj@dressforsuccessdallas.org
My next major project is The Konfident Woman Experience! It’s a 4-hour brunch, helping women unmask their brilliance & step into their feminine power! It’s one you don’t want to miss! There are only a few spots left. Grab your seat at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/623277960157/
This is the She is the Ish magazine, so tell me, what makes you the ISH?
I have the ability to inspire, impact, & influence, leaving an imprint on the hearts & minds of those I encounter. I’ve been dubbed, “The H.O.P.E. Dealer”(Healing Outward Pessimistic Energy).
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