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When the world suddenly went silent for Kellina Powell at the age of four, it didn’t put her life on pause. Instead, it turned up the volume on her determination. If anyone has the privilege of hearing her story, one quickly realizes that she isn’t here to tiptoe around expectations.
From a young age, Kellina had to navigate a world that wasn’t designed with her in mind. But instead of letting frustration take root, she took charge. She built Kellina’s Empowerment and Consultation, a powerhouse of advocacy, education and empowerment, all aimed at uplifting young adults with disabilities. Through her books, workshops and speaking engagements, she’s turning obstacles into stepping stones, proving that barriers only exist if they are allowed to.
The world is meant to be explored, so let’s talk travel
Travelling while Deaf comes with its challenges, but fear shouldn’t be one of them. Kellina’s advice? Research, prepare and go for it. Pick destinations known for accessibility, pack smart and don’t hesitate to advocate for personal needs. Fear should never hold someone back from seeing the world—it’s meant to be explored, lived and experienced fully.
For those wondering where to start, Europe is high on the Deaf-friendly list, with Berlin, Stockholm, and Barcelona topping the charts. But for Kellina, the Caribbean holds her heart—so much so that she’s dreaming up a future where a fully accessible resort stands, welcoming Deaf and disabled travellers to enjoy their stay without barriers.
Navigating airports like a pro
Airports can be a maze of confusion for anyone, and Deaf travelers often have the added challenge of missing audio announcements. Kellina’s survival tips?
- Notify airlines in advance—many offer visual paging or text alerts
- Download airline apps for real-time updates
- Use the Sunflower Lanyard Program for discreet disability support
- Arrive early—because extra time means less stress
Travel should be exciting, not exhausting and the right strategies can make all the difference.
Laugh it off!
Not every travel experience goes off without a hitch. Like the time Kellina went zip-lining in Costa Rica, only to have her helmet press down painfully on her hearing aid. When she asked the instructor for a bigger size, his confused reaction led to an exchange that had them both cracking up. Sometimes, the best travel stories are the ones you laugh about later.
A moment that stands out above the rest
Of all the places Kellina has been, her solo trip to Ohio for a speaking engagement stands out. There’s something powerful about stepping into a room and seeing faces light up as they realise their stories matter. This went way beyond delivering a speech. Powerfully, it encompassed connection, representation and showing young minds that possibilities exist, no matter what society tells them.
Take the first step because adventure is waiting
For a Deaf person who has never travelled before but wants to? Start small, Kellina says. Research Deaf-friendly destinations, read reviews and get familiar with accessibility resources. The world is waiting, it’s just a matter of stepping forward.
A word to the travel industry
The travel industry has a long way to go to make the world more accessible. Prioritise visual accessibility and train staff! Not every Deaf traveler communicates the same way and assuming they do is where the real barriers start.
The biggest myth about the Deaf community?
If Kellina could correct just one misconception, it would be this: Deafness is not a roadblock to success, and it certainly doesn’t mean someone is incapable of communication. Deaf individuals use a spectrum of communication styles: sign language, lip-reading, written notes and even technology, each just as effective as spoken words. The real problem? A world that assumes ability is measured by sound. Kellina is flipping that outdated script and demanding spaces where talent speaks louder than assumptions.
The words that needed to be written
Kellina’s Everyday I Am Just Deaf was not written for sympathy neither was it crafted to fit a feel-good, inspirational mold. It was born from necessity, the need for real stories, raw experiences and honest conversations about what it means to grow up Hard of Hearing. The message Kellina wants readers to absorb? Difference is not a limitation. If anything, it’s an amplifier for determination and the ability to redefine success on one’s own terms.
Empowering through business, because—why not?
Advocate? Check. Author? Check. Businesswoman? Of course. Kellina’s Empowerment and Consultation is shaking things up, offering workshops, coaching and speaking engagements that educate and ignite confidence.
For many young adults with disabilities, the road ahead can seem foggy with doubt, societal limitations and lack of representation. Kellina is clearing that fog, proving that with the right mindset and support, dreams are not just possible—they’re inevitable.
The power of seeing transformation firsthand
What’s the most rewarding part of her work? Watching people step into their power. The moment when someone who once felt invisible realises their voice carries weight. When someone says, “I didn’t think I could. . . but now I know I can.” Those moments fuel Kellina and she doesn’t take them lightly. Every story, breakthrough and individual who chooses to embrace their identity and push forward is proof that impact matters.
What’s next for Kellina Powell?
There is no slowing down. She’s in the middle of writing her fourth book, one that highlights business owners with disabilities, giving them a platform and sharing their wisdom with the world. And on the travel front? Dubai is calling. Luxurious, vibrant, and full of adventure, it’s next on her list. Life is meant to be experienced and she’s determined to make every moment count.
Kellina Powell isn’t waiting for the world to change. She’s changing it herself. And for those who hear her story, read her words, or cross paths with her in any way, one thing is certain: they will walk away seeing possibility where they once saw limits.
