Today we’d like to introduce you to Mykeva Floyd.
Hi mykeva, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
From a young age, I naturally found myself stepping into the role of a helper and a listener. I was the kid who other kids came to when they were going through something—whether it was a tough situation at home or just needing someone to talk to. I didn’t realize it back then, but those moments were shaping me for the purpose I walk in today.
I grew up in Greer, SC, I had a big heart for people—especially those who felt unseen or unsupported. That compassion led me to work with youth, and eventually, I found my way to the YMCA, where I’ve spent years serving my community through youth development and outreach. At the YMCA, I’ve had the privilege of helping young people feel safe, valued, and empowered. I’ve built afterschool programs, led community events, and formed relationships with families that have lasted for years. Every day, I see how powerful it is when someone believes in you—and I’m grateful I get to be that person for so many kids.
But I knew I wanted to do even more.
In 2022, I launched Beauty 4 Ashez, a nonprofit that supports girls in foster care and those growing up in challenging environments. What started with one girl quickly grew into a sisterhood focused on healing, mentorship, and life skills. Through Beauty 4 Ashez, we’ve hosted everything from pajama parties and workshops to holiday events and community service projects. It’s about more than just programming—it’s about reminding these girls that they are worthy, loved, and capable of greatness, no matter what their past looks like.
Most recently, I stepped into another space that’s close to my heart by founding Curvy Cohort GVL. As a plus-size woman, I know firsthand what it feels like to navigate a world that doesn’t always make space for you. Curvy Cohort is my love letter to women like me—to help them reclaim confidence, build community, and show up fully as themselves. Whether we’re hosting photoshoots, sipping wine at brunch, or just having real conversations, it’s all about celebrating who we are—curves and all.
Each part of my journey—from my childhood in Greer to my work at the YMCA, and the growth of Beauty 4 Ashez and Curvy Cohort GVL—has been rooted in one simple belief: when you create space for people to feel seen and supported, you give them the freedom to flourish. And I’m just getting started.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a smooth road—but every bump taught me something valuable.
There have been plenty of challenges along the way. As someone with a big heart and big vision, I’ve often had to do a lot with very little. Starting Beauty 4 Ashez wasn’t easy—especially without a blueprint or a big budget. I was funding things out of my own pocket, trying to create meaningful experiences for girls who deserved the absolute best, while also managing the day-to-day demands of work and life. There were times I questioned if I was doing enough or if I was even making a difference.
Balancing my role at the YMCA, being deeply involved in the community, and launching Curvy Cohort GVL came with its own set of struggles. Imposter syndrome crept in, and there were moments where I had to fight through burnout, disappointment, and even doubt from others who didn’t fully understand the vision. It’s not easy to step into spaces that aren’t always built for people who look like me, but I’ve learned how to advocate for myself and for the people I serve.
One of the biggest challenges has been doing all of this while being a single mom. I want to give my daughter the best of me—while also pouring into the lives of others. There’s a constant balancing act between building a legacy for her and being present in the everyday moments that matter. It’s not easy, but she’s also one of my biggest motivators. Watching her grow and knowing she’s seeing what it looks like to lead, love, and give back keeps me going on the hardest days.
But through it all, I’ve remained grounded in purpose. Every hard day has been worth it when I see a young girl smile because she feels seen for the first time, or when a curvy woman walks away from an event with her head held a little higher. The road hasn’t been smooth—but it’s been purposeful. And I’m grateful for every step.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At the heart of everything I do is people—I specialize in creating safe, empowering spaces where youth and women feel seen, valued, and supported. My work spans across community engagement, youth development, and confidence-building, and it all ties back to my passion for helping people heal, grow, and thrive.
I work full-time with the YMCA of Greenville, where I focus on youth programs and community outreach. I help develop afterschool programs, lead special events, and create opportunities for kids—especially those who are at risk—to experience joy, mentorship, and success. Whether it’s supporting parents, helping with behavior, or just showing up with love, I meet kids where they are and walk with them from there.
Outside of my work with the Y, I’m the founder of Beauty 4 Ashez, a nonprofit that supports girls in foster care and those facing difficult circumstances. Through mentoring, life skills workshops, and special events like pajama parties and empowerment brunches, we’re not just giving these girls resources—we’re giving them experiences they’ll remember for a lifetime.
I also created Curvy Cohort GVL, a movement for curvy and plus-size women to come together, celebrate themselves, and build authentic sisterhood. From body-positive photoshoots to brunches, content days, and deep conversations, this space is about breaking barriers and helping women walk boldly in who they are.
What sets me apart is my ability to connect—not just serve. I show up with authenticity, and I’m not afraid to share my story. I don’t just plan events or run programs—I create experiences that make people feel like they belong. I’ve walked in a lot of the same shoes as the people I serve, so everything I do is rooted in empathy and real-life understanding.
I’m most proud of the way people have been transformed through these efforts—watching a shy girl become a leader, seeing a mom tear up because someone cared enough to throw a holiday event for her kids, or hearing a curvy woman say, “I finally feel beautiful.” That’s the impact I’m most proud of.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m incredibly excited about what’s ahead—especially with how things are growing and evolving.
Curvy Cohort Greenville is expanding in a major way. . We’re planning to bring Curvy Cohort experiences to new cities and introduce more opportunities for women to collaborate, build confidence, and show up boldly in their everyday lives. we’re creating a culture where curvy women can take up space unapologetically.
And as for Beauty 4 Ashez, we’ve got something really special in the works. At our upcoming Curvy for a Cause Fashion Show, we’ll be announcing a brand-new extension of the organization that’s going to open even more doors for children in Foster Care.I can’t say too much just yet, but it’s something that will allow us to pour into them in a deeper, more transformative way—and it’s been on my heart for a long time.
Personally, I’m also stepping into more leadership and speaking roles. I’ve been behind the scenes for a long time, but I’m ready to start sharing my story more publicly—whether that’s on a panel, at a conference, or through writing. I want to encourage other women—especially moms, plus-size women, and those who grew up feeling overlooked—that their voice, their story, and their presence matters.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://crownofbeauty4ashez.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellajbeauty88/
- Facebook: MJ Floyd
