ABOUT ME
Karen Alexander-Banks aka “Auntie Karen”​
Karen Alexander-Banks aka “Auntie Karen” is a powerhouse of purpose, passion, and production.
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A visionary edutainer, author, entrepreneur, and creative force, she blends heart and hustle to uplift youth, artists, and communities. From the vibrant world of The Auntie Karen Foundation to the brilliance of The KAB Life, she's shaping culture through characters, concerts, and curriculum.
Whether she’s bringing Olivia the Octopus to life or building brands with bold strategy, Karen turns every idea into impact.
BIO
Karen Alexander-Banks aka “Auntie Karen” is a visionary edutainer, author, and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering youth, artists, and communities through creativity and culture. As the founder of The Auntie Karen Foundation and CEO of Karen Alexander Banks, LLC, she brings over two decades of experience in arts education, entertainment, and nonprofit leadership. Her initiatives, including The KAB Life, inspire audiences to unlock their gifts and Keep Achieving Brilliance through storytelling, strategic consulting, and original multimedia content.
MY WORK & FOUNDATION
Through my foundation, I’ve launched programs that celebrate creativity, culture, and community.
A few highlights:
Legends of… Concert Series
Since 2004, this annual event at Columbia’s Koger Center has featured legends like Roberta Flack, Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, Al Jarreau, and many more.
Legends of Master Class
I partnered with Richland One andUSC School of Music to mentor and develop young talent.
Youth Programs
We offer everything from entrepreneur workshops (ages 7–22), to puppet series like Olivia the Octopus, financial literacy programs, and more.
I’ve also written several children’s books, like Olivia Gave a Hug Today,
A Hug While I’m Away, and the Miles Alexander Banks series.
MY IMPACT
Over the years, I’ve been honored to receive awards like Black History Maker of South Carolina, and in 2025, the South Carolina House of Representatives issued a resolution recognizing our work. But what matters most to me is the impact I see in the faces of the children we serve.
Auntie Karen Impact Video
2020
Auntie Karen Impact Video
2019
Auntie Karen is Luv
2018
Auntie Karen Impact Video
2016
Auntie Karen Impact Video
2014
Auntie Karen Impact Video
2013
Auntie Karen Impact Video
2012
Auntie Karen Impact Video
2011
Auntie Karen Foundation
2010
MY WHY
The arts are my language. They’ve always been the way I connect, teach, and inspire.
I believe the arts can change the world, and young people are at the heart of that change.
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If you’re reading this and chasing a dream, here’s my advice:
Find someone doing what you want to do—and learn from them. Success leaves clues.
CONTACT & LINKS
Karen Alexander-Banks
Founder & CEO | Karen Alexander Banks, LLC
President | The Auntie Karen Foundation
📚 Author | 🎤 Edutainer | 💡 Creative Strategist
karen@thekablife.com
www.thekablife.com | www.auntiekaren.org
@TheKABLife | @AuntieKarenLive
