Kia R. Merrifield comes from the bustling city of Columbus, Ohio, where she grew up in the tight-knit Hilltop neighborhood. As the oldest child of T. Wayne and Dorothy Gatewood, Kia learned the values of resilience, determination, and compassion from a young age. Kia is a proud graduate of West High School, where she started her journey of academic excellence. Her quest for knowledge led her to pursue a degree in
Organizational Leadership from Wright State University, where she honed her leadership skills and passion for creating positive change.

Driven by her commitment to educational equality and inclusion, Kia earned a Master of Special Education from Antioch University Midwest. With knowledge and a heart for service, she embarked on a fulfilling career as an educator, touching the lives of countless students and inspiring them to reach their full potential.
Apart from her roles as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, Kia proudly wears many hats. As an aunt, niece, creator, and author, she embraces creativity and innovation in all aspects of life. But above all, Kia identifies as a survivor-a testament to her strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

Through her writing and advocacy work, Kia seeks to uplift and empower others. She shares her journey of triumph over adversity and spreads a message of hope, resilience, and self-discovery.