Inspiring Conversations with Kara Willis of Down With The Clique

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Willis.

Hi Kara, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m a Marketing and Events Specialist based in Cincinnati, passionate about fostering connections and building community networks. My journey began at The University of Cincinnati where I received a BA in Communications with a focus on intercultural communication. The course work ingrained a deep commitment to taking a community-centered approach to problem-solving, which has shaped my career across the nonprofit sector and at the unique intersection of startups and universities.

Currently, I serve as the Marketing Director for the Mercantile Library, Cincinnati’s literary hub, and Program Manager for RedHawk50, a Miami University initiative supporting entrepreneurial talent. In both roles, I create strategies that drive community building through impactful events.

As the Co-Founder of Down With The Clique (DWTC), I’ve turned a personal mission to cultivate a thriving local scene into a community-building initiative focused on retaining Black talent. Through events like dinner parties and intimate gatherings, DWTC celebrates the rich diversity of Cincinnati and empowers connections that inspire belonging and creativity.

My work is driven by a desire to spark conversations, celebrate culture, and make a lasting impact in the spaces where creativity and community meet.

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?
The road hasn’t always been smooth. My biggest career struggle came right after college, as I worked to figure out my purpose. College does a great job of teaching critical thinking, but outside of STEM careers, there’s often little emphasis on what “real life” looks like once you walk across that stage. Questions like, “How do I focus on my talents and background to strategize a job search? How do I balance bills, loans, and family?” felt overwhelming at first.

Navigating these uncertainties required me to trust myself and my instincts. I learned that clarity often comes through action. I began by getting involved with organizations that aligned with my interests, which opened doors to invaluable networks. Talking to people about their careers and journeys revealed that many of them had faced similar struggles. Their advice and insights helped me build my blueprint for success.

While the path hasn’t been linear, those challenges helped me grow. They taught me the power of persistence, connection, and trusting the process, all of which have been critical in helping me carve out a fulfilling career and purpose

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Down With The Clique is driven by a passion for community activation and a dedication to enriching the vibrant tapestry of Cincinnati. Born from our founders’ personal necessity to access engaging community events without having to uproot their lives to larger cities, we’ve made it our mission to cultivate an inclusive and thriving local scene right here in our beloved hometown.

The Clique understands the power of connection and the value of belonging. That’s why we’ve crafted a platform that brings together individuals, businesses, and organizations to foster meaningful interactions and create memorable experiences. Whether it’s a dinner party, listening party, or other intimate gatherings we’re committed to curating a diverse array of events that cater to the interests and passions of our community members.

Our journey began with a simple desire to enhance our own lives, but it quickly evolved into something much greater—a movement to redefine what it means to live, work, and play in Cincinnati. With innovation at our core and community at our heart, we’re dedicated to empowering local talent, supporting small businesses, and showcasing the rich diversity that makes our city so unique.

Join us as we continue to build bridges, spark conversations, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Cincinnati. Together, let’s create experiences that inspire, connect, and uplift us all. Learn more at downwiththeclique.com

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned on my journey is the value of embracing diverse perspectives when solving problems and building solutions. Every idea has an equal and opposite idea, and the true magic happens when those concepts intersect.

Being open to new approaches and stepping outside of your comfort zone can spark creativity and innovation in unexpected ways. It’s through this openness that I’ve discovered fresh perspectives and gained deeper insights, allowing me to think about challenges in ways I never would have before..

Contact Info:

• Website: DownWithTheClique.com
• Instagram: downwith_theclique
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kara-willis1/