By Patricia Rogers | Posted Friday, January 20, 2017

Patricia Rogers: What is Kreye Culture?

SaKarra Fite: Well, the business name is just KREYE, and Kreye is a "safe haven" almost for black culture – a variety of programs and events that encourage and empower members of the black community and those who are curious about our rich culture.

What has been your vision for Kreye Culture?

I want Kreye to be a tool. When I think about my community, I wish we had more togetherness. I wish we had economic stability, support, and education, etc. I envision Kreye creating avenues that fill those voids.

What have been some projects you've completed?

We have collaborated with several organizations to do open mic nights, volunteer work to clean up the city of Newark, speed dating, youth summits. Independently, Kreye hosted a summer program teaching children art and culture. We used our social media to post daily "black facts," something we definitely want to get back to. I’m sure I’m forgetting a few but those are at the top of my head.

What have you learned through your journey?

Know what you stand for. Be open to suggestions and critique but don’t compromise your core values. Also, love is the shit!!! Like, no lie. It’s cheesy to say love conquers all but when you love what you do, when you’re surrounded by people who love you, when you treat people with love… that’s the shit. (Excuse my French.)

"Know what you stand for.  Be open to suggestions and critique but don’t compromise your core values." - SaKarra Fite, KREYE — *"Know what you stand for. Be open to suggestions and critique but don’t compromise your core values."* - SaKarra Fite, KREYE

Talk about your collaboration with Bey Arts Gallery. How has that made a difference in your career?

I met Darnell in May just a few months before my first event. I was just gonna rent his space, but he was so excited by the vibe and impressed by the turnout that he approached me about doing weekly open mics. Well, since then we've really formed a great friendship. I support him, he supports me. It’s definitely made a difference knowing that there is someone in your corner always willing to work with you, who shares your vision.

Who are some of your role models?

I’m going to say my grandmothers, both who have passed away. They weren’t big name people but for those who knew them, they had impact in their lives. They were helpful and loving but sharp tongued and stern, and that’s kind of me.

Who are some of your frequent collaborators and why do you like working with them?

King Kittee, Bey Arts Gallery, R.E.A.L Music, Empowering Queens… all keep in touch. Those are my friends and family. I trust them. I believe in them. They speak my language. They know my temperament. They are all outrageously talented and their potential is sick, and I love working with some healthy competition. We motivate each other.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by ridiculous stuff like springtime, children’s laughter, the smell of cologne. Taking a ride on the bus will make me want to develop a free inner city shuttle day. Like, nature, human interaction, my own isolation, my son's funny ass questions and curiosity about everything really inspires me.

So, you have gotten me into meditation. How has that made a difference in your life?

Girl… there is no better thing to do than to just BE. Finding your center is so important. Mediation is like hitting a refresh button on your webpage. Clearing your head, talking to your God, talking to the universe. It really helps to make sense of this over-saturated life we live.

What’s next for you and Kreye Culture?

I plan on bringing the camp back for another year. We are working on a college tour, some top secret programs lol and of course more collaborations with different organizations. The big thing is networking!

About the Writer

Patricia Rogers, #ValleyGirlNJ, lives in New Jersey's Valley Arts District. The native New Yorker works as a writer, blogger and community activist. Starting Masconsumption Media in 2012, she has been passionate about capturing the stories of the vibrant up and coming Valley Arts District neighborhood through her blog, zine, events and more. She blogs for Jersey Indie, Luna Stage, and Hat City Kitchen and offers many creative media services. Visit her blog www.masconsumption.com and keep up with your favorite Valley Girl on social media at @valleygirl_nj (Twitter / Instagram).