Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyrei Jade Hartsfield.
Hi Kyrei Jade, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started my journey when I was 7 years old through a program called Lemonade Day. They teach kids how to become entrepreneurs by running their own lemonade stand, and that’s where Stroke Survivor Lemonade & Co. was born.
A little later, I decided to create my own coloring books because I could never find characters who looked like me or told stories I connected with. I wanted pages that celebrated confidence, creativity, and representation, so I brought my ideas to life with books that kids can see themselves in. Creating them has become one of my favorite parts of my business.
Every event I’ve done has helped me grow, meet new people, and learn how to run a real business. I’m still learning and dreaming bigger each year, and my goal is to inspire other kids to chase their ideas too.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the hardest parts has been learning that every event is different. Sometimes we get huge crowds, and just when I think I worked hard and made enough product, we sell out way before the event is even over. At first it stressed me out, but it taught me to prepare more, make a bigger quantity, and always be ready for surprises. I also had to learn the importance of taking cards and different forms of payment so I never miss a sale.
Another struggle has been learning how to talk to lots of people, stay confident, and handle busy crowds. Some events are slow, some are super packed, and sometimes the weather or the atmosphere isn’t the best for kids. But every time, I learn something new about running a business.
Even with the tough parts, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. The challenges just make my wins feel even bigger.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I run Stroke Survivor Lemonade & Co., and my business is all about creating things that make people smile. I sell freshly squeezed, organic lemonade with no artificial ingredients at all. I even create my own flavored syrups using fresh fruits and herbs, so every cup tastes clean, bright, and homemade. Along with that, I also create my own coloring books that celebrate confidence, creativity, and representation.
I’m most proud of being able to share my story as a stroke survivor and turn it into something positive. A lot of people don’t expect a kid my age to run a business, and even fewer understand what it’s like to grow up with medical challenges. But I use my experiences to encourage other kids to dream big, try new things, and believe in themselves.
What sets me apart is that everything I make has meaning behind it. My lemonade isn’t just water and lemon juice, it is a physical reminder that when life hands you lemons, you really can make lemonade. And my coloring books aren’t just pages, they represent kids like me and remind them that they’re seen. Every product I create has heart, purpose, and a story behind it.
No matter what I’m working on, I want people to walk away inspired and excited to chase their own ideas.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I think taking risks is part of growing. Even if something makes you a little nervous, you try it because you believe in your idea.
One of my biggest risks was doing events without knowing if anyone would stop by. We spent money on supplies and ingredients, and I ordered coloring books, but I had to trust that people would like what I made. Learning Canva and purchasing the software was also a risk because it was a challenge to learn, but my mom helped me.
I’m not afraid to step out of my comfort zone. To me, risk means trying even if the outcome may not be what you want and learning from whatever happens.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sslemonadeco.com
- Instagram: @strokesurvivorlemonadeco
- Facebook: @ Stroke Survivor Lemonade & Co.
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/author/kyreiharts
Image Credits
@Lemonade Day Fort Hood Area
