May 2007 NYA C.
Covering Both Ends of the Spectrum � Keisha C. Morrisey
Interview by Tavares S. Carney
Most of us would never think that a young, black woman could be the founder of a popular rap group, playing a vital role in the group�s success, at the same time as running for political office and endeavoring upon a career as a first-class boxing executive.
World - meet Keisha C. Morrisey, boxing empress, music exec and politician. Keisha Morrisey, born in Harlem, New York, grew up in a community she thought to be digressing instead of progressing. Somewhere along the line, Keisha�s understanding became that if the Democratic Party was supposedly responsible for the progress in the community in which she lived being at a standstill, she�d take the other side. Keisha eventually aligned herself with the Republican Party and is affiliated with the Young Republicans. �I am a Republican because I like the [party�s] principles and the fact that we should be active in both parties.� Keisha�s affiliation with the political party has caused her to be on the receiving end of much criticism, stating, �[Yes] I�ve received criticism by choosing to support the [Republican] party, our Commander in Chief and President and Secretary of State.� To that she says, �So be it.�
Keisha describes herself as very business savvy, having an enterprising mind for the next generation of leadership, popular, sociable, exuding an unforgettable personality and having a super-star quality. Her background is in the arts entertainment and sports industry, providing management, marketing, production and publicity services for her clients. Regarding her client roster, Keisha states, �I decide with whom I will work with based off of genuine talent and I have to see that true talent immediately, like a diamond in the rough or a star. I offer my clients advice, assist with talent development, provide technical services and more." In essence, the woman is a one-person operation, wearing many hats well. �My job is to listen and solve problems. I run a pretty tight ship. I have a no-strings attached policy and my stress level tolerance is zero,� she offers. Regarding the difference in working with athletes and rappers, Ms. Morrisey tells TPS, �There�s not too much of a difference.� For smooth operation, she encourages meaningful communication.
As a member of the USA Boxing Metro organization, Keisha helps with the administration and judging of amateur boxing competitions within the five boroughs of New York City and the state itself. The organization is host to a national competition and is affiliated with the Golden Gloves and Independent boxing clubs. Her vision is �to be all I can be and be the best I can be. I have a career and creative plans for the entertainment industry being developed, in film, television, video, motion pictures, musical theatre and recordings. I enjoy being behind the scenes; however, if a role calls for me, I�m ready for lights, camera and action. [It�s] Whatever!� In efforts to become fully active in the boxing realm, Keisha is studying and preparing herself for tests that will qualify and train her for advancement. �I have no desire for a leadership role at present, but don�t count me out. Women in boxing and their roles are becoming very vital to the sport.� She names Laila Ali amongst her favorites, �because of her abilities, legacy, showmanship and skills in the ring.� Keisha also enjoys equestrian sports, gymnastics, swimming and track and field.
On the more personal side of Keisha, the boxing empress is currently single, though she is dating exclusively. �I met a gentleman and he likes me, for now. Perhaps he�s the one.� Because of her schedule and obligations, Keisha is contemplating entering into another serious relationship. She�d like to be able to spend time with her mate and the ideal one for her is family and goal-oriented, independent, possesses and has the knowledge of a couple being a team and is a thinker.
Keisha C. Morrisey is seemingly quite confident and comfortable despite being a minority in several industries by societal standards, only. Most Blacks aren�t Republicans, there aren�t too many women executives in the boxing industry and we don�t hear of too many females running ship in the rap game either. Some could argue that she is a trendsetter, a risk taker and a leader. That takes a very strong woman. �I have no issues with the good old boys clubs or working within any male-dominated industry, I just like to meet the man and not the middlemen. When it comes to business, for me, anything else is in my way.� Keisha shares, �Most of the issues that I�ve had have been with people that I helped, loved and trusted. That�s what hurts the most, when it�s your own people. I know people are hating. It�s easier to hate than to love or be responsible. I like haters� energy.�
Keisha is keeping the faith. She knows her worth and is prepared for the obstacles that lie ahead. Her advice for all is �to first know who you are, not just your name and where you are from or who you represent. Be true to yourself. You are whatever you wish to be.�
For more on Keisha C. Morrisey, please visit http://www.keishamorrisey.com
