Kiya Edwards, a reporter at KARE 11 News and host of The Show with Kiya, is known for her engaging storytelling and impactful presence. But beyond her professional success, Edwards has a personal story that highlights the power of mentorship and community.
The Power of Mentorship
Growing up, Edwards was a Little Sister in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program for nearly a decade. Her mentor, Elizabeth, played a pivotal role in shaping her life. Raised in a single-parent household, Edwards often faced disappointment when plans with others fell through. But Elizabeth’s unwavering consistency taught her an invaluable lesson: she was worth showing up for.
“Her commitment to our weekly meetups showed me the importance of self-compassion and having someone in your corner,” Edwards said.
Finding Her Path in Journalism
As a child, Edwards dreamed of becoming a clown. That changed in elementary school, where she aspired to be an actress, imagining herself performing on stage. But it wasn’t until her senior year of high school—after spending a year studying abroad in Germany as an exchange student—that she discovered her true calling: journalism.
The experience ignited her passion for storytelling and global awareness, leading her to pursue a career that allows her to share impactful stories with the world.
Giving Back as a Big Sister
Mentorship remains central to Edwards’ life. Inspired by her experience as a Little, she now serves as a Big Sister to Courtney, a young girl she has mentored for years.
Watching Courtney grow into a poised and ambitious teen has been a rewarding journey for Edwards. “She’s excited about her future—whether it’s as a police officer or an entrepreneur,” she said. “At the same time, she has these lighthearted moments, like saying, ‘When I’m an adult, I’m going to order two large fries and just go home.’”
For Edwards, mentoring is about more than guidance—it’s about connection and shared joy. Spending time with Courtney reminds her of the lightheartedness of youth, something she cherishes as her adult friends’ busy lives make it harder to stay connected.
A Life of Impact
During a recent Big Brothers Big Sisters event, a Little Brother named Carter asked Edwards about her favorite ice cream flavor. Without hesitation, she answered, “Mint chocolate chip.” A simple question, but one that underscores the power of genuine, human connection.
Whether through her work as a journalist, her mentorship of Courtney, or the relationships she builds in the community, Kiya Edwards continues to be a game-changer, proving that mentorship doesn’t just change lives—it transforms them.