Daily Inspiration: Meet Kristen Hopkins-vincent

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Hopkins-vincent

Hi Kristen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My career has been a journey of passion and purpose, driven by a deep commitment to the holistic growth of Black youth, young adults, and professionals. With a Master’s in Urban Education and Leadership and a certificate in Anti-Racism, I’ve dedicated my life to promoting culturally responsive Social Emotional Learning (SEL) that truly resonates with our communities. Founding Dangers Of The Mind, LLC was my way of ensuring that our voices are heard and that our experiences are reflected in the educational spaces that shape us.

Through Kristen Hopkins Global and the Dangers Of The Mind Education Fund, I’ve been able to implement SEL initiatives in schools, nonprofits, and corporate environments, not just here in the United States, but also in places like Haiti and Ghana. It’s been incredible to see how these programs have enriched lives and brought about real change. But my work doesn’t stop there—I’m also an author and entrepreneur. I’ve created books, curricula, and even an intervention kit for in-school suspension and youth detention centers. Plus, I’ve established a lifestyle brand, a virtual coaching practice, a clothing line, and a podcast—all aimed at supporting the social-emotional health of the Black community.

Most recently, my nonprofit launched Black SEL, a social-emotional hub that empowers Black communities through initiatives like the Annual Black SEL Summit, the Black SEL Summer Institute, and The Black Student Experience Project. These programs are my way of ensuring that we’re not just talking about SEL, but that we’re actively creating culturally responsive and affirming resources that will support our youth today and for generations to come.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Throughout my career, I’ve faced countless struggles trying to innovate and introduce ideas that others couldn’t see or weren’t ready to embrace. I’ve pioneered programs, watched larger organizations take them on, and wrestled with the frustration of not scaling my business as I’d hoped. But I wouldn’t change any of these obstacles—they’ve shaped me into a woman of integrity, justice, determination, and unwavering faith.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As the Founder and CEO of Dangers Of The Mind, Executive Director of Dangers Of The Mind Education Fund and creator of Black SEL, I specialize in creating culturally responsive Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs that are designed specifically for Black youth, young adults, and professionals. My work is deeply rooted in the belief that SEL must be culturally affirming and relevant to the lived experiences of Black communities. This led to the creation of the Black SEL Framework, which is an extension of the SEL competencies with a focus on cultural identity, communal action, and sustainability for the Black community.

What sets me apart is my commitment to not only addressing the emotional well-being of Black individuals but also empowering them to navigate and challenge systemic inequities. Our work with Black SEL and just 2 years has reached over 10,000 individuals, including the impactful Black SEL Summit, the Black SEL Hub Summer Institute, Black SEL Webinars, our free resources available online and our Black SEL podcast. All of these inititives collectively foster resilience, agency, and social change within the Black community.

I’m most proud of the tangible impact my work has had over the years watching students learn SEL skills and become more confident and establish better relationships with family and friends. Also, watching students cultivate a strong sense of community and social responsibility for civic engagement.

My work is not just about creating programs; it’s about pioneering a movement that centers Black cultural values and equips individuals with the tools they need to thrive. I strive to create lasting change and build a legacy of empowerment for Black communities.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories is when I wrote a book in the third grade for an author’s showcase. Little did I know, that moment would foreshadow my future as an author, where I would go on to create not just books but also develop several curriculums. Writing has become my outlet and a powerful form of expression, shaping my journey in ways I never imagined.

Pricing:

• Black SEL Summit 2024 $575 (Two-Day Educational Summit)

Contact Info:

• Website: www.blacksel.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackselhub
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/BlackSEL
• Other: https://blacksel.org/podcast/