Interview with Karen Okonkwo
Karen Okonkwo’s journey to Co-Founder of TONL, a stock photography business that provides images of diverse people around the world, started with a blog she had with her sorority sisters. A friend called her out on the lack of diversity in her imagery. She realized her world had been viewed through a white narrative and felt called to be part of the change.
After working in medical sales in corporate for 10 years, Karen left to focus on her entrepreneurial pursuits in October 2019. She is passionate to “serve the underserved” and “amplify the voices that are otherwise stifled.”
In this interview, you’ll learn about the impact diverse imagery has on people, how Karen has grown as a leader, and her vision for serving the underserved.
Key Takeaways:
Karen and Joshua Kissi created TONL out of necessity for positive, diverse stock photo imagery
“When something is for you, the door is going to keep knocking and, at some point, you’re going to have to open it.”
People represented in the TONL images have shared they feel seen and heard.
2020 travel plans: speaking around the world about business, race and gender equity, and helping others become business owners
Karen’s path shifted by asking herself, “Is this the trajectory that will give me everything I want?”
When Karen first started in stock photography, she experienced times when she felt self-conscious about how she was speaking and presenting business deals
Karen’s why is to “serve the underserved”
Daily practice: reads, listens to podcasts, and spends time planning for the next day
Hope for global leadership: For people “to respect people for their differences but not lead with it.”
TONL is starting a contributor portal to expand the library in 2020
Episode Resources:
Karen’s Instagram and Twitter: @KarenOkonkwo