Born in 2003 in Chicago, Illinois, DeCarlos McKinney is a sophomore at Kennesaw State University and a proud graduate of BEST Academy High School. A rising star in the fields of public relations, design consultancy, social media, and marketing strategy, he is carving out a unique path at the intersection of academia and entrepreneurship.
Even as a kid, McKinney had always known he was meant for something… more. When other children his age were obsessed with the latest Marvel release, he was watching makeup tutorials on YouTube, perfecting his contour, discovering both his sexuality and his sense of style, while dreaming of TikTok fame and a glamourous Hollywoodesque life. Some might call it delusional — and he would agree — but then, people destined for greatness usually are.
Beyond the classroom, McKinney is a force for positive change. He is actively engaged in equity, civic participation, and the advocacy of LGBTQIA+ rights. His dedication to these causes reflects a profound desire to create a more inclusive world and inspire others in his community.
In the realm of innovation, he explores collaborative design and capacity building, demonstrating a well-rounded approach to problem-solving and creativity. This multidisciplinary approach extends to his latest endeavor as the founder of McKinney Strategies LLC, a Lifestyle Management Company based in Kennesaw, Georgia. Established in 2023, the company specializes in publishing, consulting, design, digital prototyping, production, and lifestyle brand services, providing exclusive and tailored offerings to its clientele.
He is a big believer in the importance of romanticizing one’s life, which sparked his foray into the literary world with his memoir, How I Met the Love of My Life and Lost Him at the Same Time.
