Today we’d like to introduce you to Kamili Belton.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I often say my story is about the power of community investment. After navigating the complexities of my Deaf identity through my youth, I was introduced to Camp Wonder Hands by a supportive Teacher Assistant Andrea Martinez-Johnson. My mother and I took a risk on that program, and it changed the trajectory of my life. Now, twenty years later, I have the privilege of serving as Director. It was a surprising twist at the time, but it has allowed me to turn my personal history into a professional mission: ensuring every child has the same advocacy and support that I found.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
In my career, I’ve had to confront the reality that the DHH community faces a daily battle with being overlooked; our disability is often invisible and isolating, which can lead others to underestimate our capabilities. Overcoming this meant learning to lead with authenticity while strategically pushing against those stigmas. I’ve found that the best way to dismantle these barriers is through a strong, unified team. I’ve worked hard to cultivate a group of people who are not only committed to our community but who I trust to hold me accountable. Their willingness to challenge me is exactly what allows us to serve our community with excellence.”
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I believe in showing up as a whole person. Professionally, I specialize in DHH mental health and community advocacy, but I’m known for being a ‘multi-hyphenate’ leader. I spent years serving DHH individuals statewide in South Carolina and teaching at the collegiate level, but I’m equally proud of the community-level work I do through Camp Wonder Hands and my community group, LIVE LOVE AND SIGN. What sets me apart is my perspective as a Deaf Black woman who has navigated these systems personally and professionally. I’m most proud of the trust I’ve built across the country through my board work. And because I believe a great leader needs balance, when I’m not ‘working,’ I’m fueling my creativity through travel—whether it’s a family trip to Tennessee or exploring local wineries with friends.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
For me, it’s family above all else. They’ve instilled in me the compassion and drive that define my career. I’ve always been the ‘manager’ of my family, and being that person of trust for my hearing relatives is something I’m incredibly proud of—it’s a testament to the fact that leadership knows no barriers. I lead with the same strength they’ve given me, and I’m motivated by the knowledge that no matter how big the vision, I have a village that stands with me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://campwonderhands.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/campwonderhands?igsh=M3pxNXd6bjF6ZGg1
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1DPfbuAhir/
