Dr. Kimberly Lee-Okonya (Dr. Kim), founder of Life Begins Here, Therapeutic & Counseling Services, is on a mission to provide mental health and holistic wellness services to her community. Her journey took a transformative turn when she joined the first cohort of BeltLine Business Ventures (BBV), a small business accelerator supported by The Center by Lendistry.
Born and raised in Atlanta, Dr. Kim’s roots in the city run deep. Her passion for community healing led her to start her practice in 2016, aiming to make mental health services more accessible and impactful. Her practice focuses on collective healing experiences, like the Melanated Mommy Tribe, a safe space for Black mothers to discuss the mental impact of the unique Black motherhood experience.
“My goal is to create a practice that is not just a service provider but a community hub, a place where people feel welcome, supported, and empowered to take control of their mental health and overall well-being.” – Dr. Kim
BBV was a game-changer for Dr. Kim, providing her with the tools and knowledge to expand her business. The program’s focus on business planning, brand imaging, and innovative thinking reshaped her approach. She learned how to create a more engaging experience for her clients, envisioning a space that goes beyond traditional therapy settings.
The goal of BBV is to help Atlanta entrepreneurs physically locate their businesses on the BeltLine. For Dr. Kim, being on the BeltLine is more than a strategic business move; it’s a way to give back to the community in which she was raised. By being centrally located and easily accessible by bus or train, Dr. Kim believes she will have a greater impact. As she works towards her goal of relocating her practice by 2025, Dr. Kim is focused on building partnerships and expanding her product offerings.
Her story exemplifies the impact of programs like BBV and the mission of The Center. By supporting diverse small business owners like Dr. Kim, The Center is not just investing in businesses; it’s investing in communities, creating a ripple effect of economic empowerment.
About BeltLine Business Ventures
Launched by the BeltLine Business Solutions Office, in partnership with The Center and CVM Worldwide, BeltLine Business Ventures is a small business accelerator that supports local businesses with the technical assistance and resources they need to physically locate their businesses along the BeltLine. The program offers three cohorts for its inaugural year: Fall2023, Winter/Spring 2024 and Summer/Fall 2024.Learn more here.
March 25, 2024