Who is Keosha Danielle, and how would you describe yourself to someone who has never met you?
Those who know me best would say that I am loving and courageous. I would also describe myself as funny, caring and ambitious.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
My whole life – all 42 years – I have lived in Roanoke. My Star City upbringing was challenging at times, but there was plenty of love and lessons. Looking back, so many things that I didn’t understand at the time shaped me into the strong person that I am today. I’m thankful for every step of my life’s journey – both positive and negative. After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
Honestly, I didn’t know what my next chapter was going to be at that moment. I had many interests, but no real guidance or pathway to get there. As a result, it took some time to figure things out.
Life has taught me many things. For instance, sometimes when you grow up with challenges, you feel like you will never reach your full potential. Once I started to believe in myself, things changed for the better. Eventually, I got my pharmacy tech degree before going to nursing school to become an RN. Since then, I’ve obtained my associate and bachelor’s degree. Today, I am in school to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner
What is your official title, and what do your responsibilities consist of?
For nearly a decade, I have been a registered nurse. In addition to coordinating patient care, I also educate families and patients while working with doctors. Working in community nursing has been extremely rewarding. It allows me to work with people who have mental health issues or other problems. At the end of the day, getting to a positive outcome is always the primary objective.
How important is family to you?
I believe that the concept of “nature versus the nurture” plays a huge part in not only who we are in life, but also who we are as individuals. Having a family unit and support is so essential in life. Family isn’t always blood…sometimes just having people around you who want to see you succeed makes all the difference in the world.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
I am most definitely an R&B girl. Everyone has their opinion, so here is mine: the best period of R&B music belongs to the late 90s and early 2000s. My playlist would consist of the Isley Brothers, H-Town, Jodeci, 112, Keith Sweat and Joe, among others.
What are some of your favorite City of Roanoke memories?
I’m a concert lover, so going to the civic center to see live performances immediately comes to mind. So many memories were made at the venue. The same goes for festivals at Elmwood Park.
What are some of your hobbies?
I love to write songs and poetry. I absolutely love to cook! If I wasn’t a nurse, I would probably own a restaurant. I love shopping, going to the movies, bowling and, of course, traveling with loved ones. Traveling is my favorite thing to do in the world.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of family?
Outside of family, I’ve had an amazing group of friends who have been there since elementary school. They are an amazing support system. I look up to them because we all have had the same types of goals in life.
Another huge inspiration has been my best friend Sarah Carroll, who passed away from breast cancer in 2020. She was also an RN and my biggest cheerleader. At times, when I didn’t believe in myself, she was there to pick me up. I try to honor her every single day with how I carry myself, both personally and professionally.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
I would simply tell myself, “Keosha use your voice. Your voice is powerful. Your voice can open doors. Your voice can protect yourself and others. Your voice is your superpower; use it, don’t be afraid and do not apologize for it.”
One of my favorite songs by Jhené Aiko is “Speak.” I love how she speaks from her heart and stands on what she feels. I believe that with all my heart.
