Meet Kisha Gulley of ahwatukee

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kisha Gulley

Hi Kisha, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
After the birth of our first son in 2016, I started blogging. Initially, it was more of an online journal—a place for me to share my thoughts and experiences while I was dealing with postpartum depression. Over the years, however, it evolved into something much more profound. When our son turned three years old, he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The journey to that diagnosis was incredibly draining, filled with countless questions and very few answers. I knew there had to be a better way.

As a Black mother living in a predominantly white community, I found it challenging to find the support and resources I needed. My concerns were often dismissed, and I had to fight hard to get anyone to listen. It was from this deep-seated need to create a safe, nurturing space for Black women that The Kisha Project was born—a platform where our voices are heard, our stories are valued, and our experiences are shared with authenticity and love.

The Kisha Project is more than just a blog; it’s a community where we come together to support, uplift, and empower each other. Black motherhood comes with its unique set of challenges and questions, often overlooked by mainstream conversations. The Kisha Project aims to address these concerns head-on, providing a space where we can find answers, share advice, and celebrate our wins together.

Here, I delve into topics that matter to us—autism, ADHD, mental health, fashion, and culture, among others. It’s about creating a dialogue that is both reflective and empowering, one that acknowledges our struggles while celebrating our resilience.

I am dedicated to cultivating a community where Black women feel seen, heard, and empowered. By answering the questions that only we understand and creating a legacy of strength and unity, I hope to make The Kisha Project a beacon of support and inspiration for Black mothers everywhere.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all. When I first suspected something was going on with our son, I couldn’t get anyone to even evaluate him. At the time, we were living in Texas. It wasn’t until we moved to Arizona that I made some progress.

However, things got worse. I constantly have to advocate for myself and our children. We’ve faced numerous challenges, including being reported for child abuse by a teacher who didn’t know what Mongolian spots are and had no experience working with Black children. She lacked cultural competency, which led to a distressing and unnecessary situation.

I’ve had to fight to keep my son in the general education classroom because they wanted to place him in a self-contained classroom. He has been called racial slurs by his autistic peers, and it has been overlooked because they are also autistic.

All of this while also dealing with my own mental health and neurodivergence. It’s an ongoing battle, but it has strengthened my resolve to advocate for my children and ensure they receive the understanding and support they deserve.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a passionate advocate for autism, dedicating my time to volunteering in an integrated preschool, assisting caregivers when possible, and championing mental health awareness—all while staying fashionable! I not only share valuable resources but also our personal journey, giving people an authentic glimpse into our lives. With me, you get real, unfiltered honesty. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I will always try my best to help.

My advocacy goes beyond autism resources. I am open and candid about my own experiences with ADHD, anxiety, and mental health struggles. I share insights into my culture, parenting, and marriage—the good and the not-so-good—because Black people deserve to celebrate Black joy too. Our story isn’t just about struggles; it’s also about joy, love, and happiness.

What I’m most proud of is breaking generational curses and raising our boys in a home filled with love. Through sharing our journey, I hope to inspire and empower others to embrace their stories and find strength in their unique paths.

Any big plans?
My future plans are centered around expanding my brand and continuing to help families by sharing our story through a podcast, my YouTube, and my ongoing blog. I also plan to remain active in the school setting and seek partnerships with brands and businesses that align with my goals and values. I aim to be a source of motivation for women who see my story, empowering them to become the best versions of themselves, to speak their truth boldly, and to be fierce advocates for their loved ones.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thekishaproject.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panamakish/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thekishaproject
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAzRZdA2pv812UywC4ocuFA
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/thekishaproject/

Image Credits
Alexys Brandon