Alabama native Kindred Motes named 2024 “Power Player” in New York City

Recently, Alabama native Kindred Motes was recognized as one of New York City’s 2024 “Power Players”. The founder and director of his own social impact organization, KMSG, Motes was honored for his significant contributions to local philanthropy and dedication to giving back to his community.

Keep reading to learn more about Kindred Motes’ story and his commitment to supporting Alabama organizations.

Who is Kindred Motes?

An Alabama native and Birmingham-Southern College alumnus, Kindred Motes is the founder of New York City-based organization KSMG. At only 33 years old, Motes’ award-winning company has worked on campaigns for The United Nations, The Obama White House, USAID and several other prominent organizations.

Awarded annually by PoliticsNY and amNY Metro, the “Power Player” title has been given to leaders from prominent companies like JP Morgan Chase, Ralph Lauren and American Express. The award highlights leaders who exhibit corporate responsibility, or the responsibility of companies to use profits ethically and give back to their community.

How Kindred Motes gives back to his Alabama roots

Although Motes now lives and works in Manhattan, his roots trace all the way back to Somerville, Alabama where he was raised. A first-generation college graduate, Motes had to work hard to reach his goals and understands the power of community.

As Motes told Bham Now, he feels strongly about investing back into the place that raised him.

“My life in Alabama laid the foundation for everything I’ve pursued in life and for everything I’ve carried with me. I learned the importance and power of community, humility, and the value of hard work. Birmingham was my first taste of city life after growing up in rural North America, and it is a place I still return to as much as possible.

A few years ago, I asked myself, “What if those of us who left the South but still have love for communities there actually stepped up? What if we focused our efforts and resources on the places that need it the most and let the folks who really know the score make the big decisions? It hit me hard; I felt strongly that I needed to actively invest back into the places that gave me so much.”

Kindred Motes, KMSG

With philanthropy at the center of his business model, Motes gives back 10% of KMSG’s profits to local Alabama organizations like:

• ACLU of Alabama
• Alabama Forward
• Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network
• Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Justice
• Birmingham-Southern College
• Equal Justice Initiative
• Magic City Acceptance Center + Magic City Acceptance Academy

“Whether I’m in a meeting in Manhattan or working with partners at events across the globe, I carry the lessons from the people who’ve loved me and shaped who I am. It’s not just about where I am now; it’s about honoring where I’ve come from.”

Kindred Motes, KMSG

Check out the full list of 2024 Power Players.

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