Today we’d like to introduce you to Kala Nwachukwu.
Hi Kala, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My love for sneakers really started when I was young. I always wanted all of the latest Jordan’s that came out but like most parents, they were not having it. Until I was able to get my granddad to really buy into the concept of a Sneakerhead. My grandad really liked the Nelly song ‘Air Force Ones”.
I really credit that song to me being able to acquire a bunch of sneakers at a young age because he took me to Foot Locker after the song came out and said: ‘No, you’ve got to get two pairs. That’s what it said in the song!’” Ever since that day, I had used sneakers as a reward system for me getting good grades in school. At one point, I was getting so many A’s he couldn’t keep up with my addiction to sneakers and I would go on to try the same reward system on other family members. Once I was older and able to finance my habit, I started buying a ridiculous amount of sneakers.
I honestly did not know much about the value of sneakers as I began growing my sneaker collection. StockX and Goat App did not exist and eBay was not really known for sneaker reselling at the time. I actually learned the value of my collection when I missed out on a pair of sneakers that I really wanted.
I was so mad that I put a bunch of my sneakers up on eBay auction and I was amazed at the amount of money my sneakers were selling for I ended up earning more than the original purchase price even though some pairs were worn. That eventually sparked my interest in the business aspect of sneakers. I began reselling shoes to local customers and then eventually more widespread. Although I enjoyed it I was still missing that connection of sharing my passion and love for sneakers with other enthusiasts.
That passion eventually led me to found the Kick Back Sneaker Expo in 2014, which was created for sneaker aficionados and consumers who are avid collectors of high demand sneakers, as well as, urban fashion trend-setters, to pursue their passion for the sneaker culture. It was modeled after the legendary Sneaker Con that draws thousands of people at each event.
The Kick Back Sneaker Expo drew 1100 fans and 70 vendors during our last event, up from the 60 attendees and 15 vendors at our inaugural event. The expo brings a community together for the sole purpose of connecting sneakers. The event has had exponential growth since it was founded and has been featured in a lot of media as one of the most influential sneaker culture events in North Carolina.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Like all growth, it was definitely was not a smooth road. Sneakers is a culture that is forever shifting and changing and being able to be flexible and add certain things to my event to create an experience for my attendees rather than just another event is always challenging but rewarding within itself.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In addition to my love for sneakers I really love science. By day, I am a neuroscientist. I am a current 4th year Ph.D. candidate at North Carolina Central University in the Integrated Biosciences program.
My research area is investigating the neuroimmune response within the brain and how it responds to binge-like consumption of alcohol in adolescents and how the consumption can cause persisting hippocampal brain damage in adulthood. I’m most proud of the contributions that I have been able to make in my field of science through my studies and becoming a published scientific author.
Additionally, being a role model for little girls who also are interested in STEM. I think what sets me apart from others is my drive to help others and give back. Success is definitely measured by others you’ve helped along the way of your journey.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happy is being a part of the sneaker community while giving back to the greater/larger community.
One of my favorite quotes is “If you wait until you can do everything for everybody, instead of doing something for somebody, you’ll end up doing nothing for nobody” – Anonymous. I realize the importance and social responsibility of giving back to the community.
In conjunction with every sneaker expo, I have a sneaker, food, or school supply drive to donate to the local outreach programs in the community. I always wanted to be in a position where I could use my platform to help others and it makes me happy that through my event I am able to do that.
Pricing:
- Tickets to attend the Sneaker Expo on May 1st is $20
Contact Info:
- Email: Thekickbackexpo@gmail.com
- Website: www.kickbackexpo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kickbackexpo
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kickbackexpo
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/kickbackexpo
Image Credits
CoulStyle, Vernon Samuels, and DigitalFilms
