by Kandia Johnson
March 1, 2024
Originally published Feb. 18, 2015.
When 24-year-old Khyrie Alleyne was instant messaging his friend, the legendary Serena Williams, he had no idea an impromptu conversation would turn into the aha moment that launched his business, SelfieFaze.
“Serena asked how I was feeling and I sent her a picture of me wearing a sick-sad face. She responded, ‘Gross, ugh…yuck.’ At first, I was a little annoyed by her response. I was feeling under the weather and of course she definitely made me laugh while hurting. Secondly, she did not realize I was telling her I was sick using my customized emoji, instead of the circular yellow emoji representing illness. But before I started to explain my intent, I began jumping up-and-down screaming, “Oh my gosh, oh my gosh I have to create Emoji’s of anything..”
The thought led Alleyne on his entrepreneurial journey.
BLACK ENTERPRISE caught up with the Brooklyn, New York, native to learn more about his journey as a an entrepreneur and success coach.
There are many people who dream of creating their own mobile app. How did you move from concept to execution?
I underwent several phases; from concept, to design layout and name changes. In fact, it was conceived just days before its launch on the iOS market. Here is an overview of my design process:
Recorded every possible thought pertaining to my idea (including how to protect my rights), by thoroughly researched.
I had to zero-in on one concept.
Hired workers to create my idea. This was the hardest because on three different occasions I was scammed out of my money and the services I paid for.
Which skill was critical to achieving your goal?
Perseverance. When hope was hidden and every time defeat whispered ever so sweetly, I believed anyway. As clouds of darkness (negativity, hearing NO) would form and light began to fade, I had to search within to shine anyway! Lastly, instead of seeking revenge from those who laughed at, doubted and stole from me, I knew I had to love anyway!
Did you use investors or your own money?
I used money from waiting tables as a restaurant server; funds from my graduate school scholarship and I was able to secure financial investments from close family members and friends.
Can you provide any tips or any lessons learned from marketing your app, working with developers, and/or getting people to endorse your service?
Clearly define your vision. Write it down and make sure it’s embedded in your mind. Lastly, believe, act and say to yourself, until it becomes second nature, “No, ‘NO’ Can Stop My Yes.”
How have you kept users engaged?
Social media–using Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and hashtags all over the cyber world.
Personal and professional relationships—sharing with my contacts and close family and friends via text, email, call, and meetings.
Public Relations and Marketing activities—to spread awareness about my business, I created business cards, retractable banners, posters, T-shirts, edibles such as cupcakes and drinks, stickers and hats. I also used press release and media kits to gain press coverage. Additionally I secured speaking engagements at schools, business forums, meet-up groups, churches, and other events.
RELATED CONTENT: ‘Be Your Own Marketing Engine’ Says CurlMix Founder On The Keys To Business Success
