Kelly Holmes shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Kelly, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I think a lot of people, especially creatives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, are silently struggling with feeling like they have to carry everything alone. There’s this unspoken pressure to constantly show up strong, polished, and successful, especially on social media. But behind the scenes, many are overwhelmed, doubting themselves, or wondering if they’re doing enough.
I see it in Indigenous communities too, people doing groundbreaking work while also navigating generational trauma, lack of resources, or being the “first” in spaces not built for us. But we rarely talk about the weight of that.
I’ve felt it myself. There were times I was winning on the outside, but silently burned out, anxious, or unsure of my next step. I’ve learned that asking for help, building community, and letting people see your process — not just your highlight reel — is actually a form of strength.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Kelly Holmes, and I’m a Mnicoujou Lakota entrepreneur, media founder, and fashion lover. I’m the founder and CEO of Native Max, a multimedia brand that started as the first Native American fashion magazine and has since grown into a global platform highlighting Indigenous excellence in fashion, culture, business, and storytelling.
Through my work, I aim to amplify Indigenous voices, challenge stereotypes, and make space for Native talent in places we’ve historically been excluded, whether that’s on magazine covers, in boardrooms, or on the runway.
I also co-founded Skoden Ventures, the first Native woman-led venture fund, and I serve as a General Partner at Relevance Ventures, where I help bridge capital and culture, working directly with tribal leaders, entrepreneurs, and underrepresented founders.
What makes my brand unique is that it’s rooted in both authenticity and ambition. Everything I do is about reclaiming narratives, empowering Native people, and building a future where we don’t just survive, we thrive creatively, financially, and spiritually.
Right now, I’m working on expanding Native Max globally, supporting Indigenous founders through accelerator programs and venture initiatives, and continuing to build a personal brand that inspires the next generation of Native fashionistas, business leaders, and changemakers.
My mantra? Fashion, Finance, and Futures, and I bring all three into everything I do.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
I believe my mother taught me the most about work. I’ve seen her work hard my whole life. Despite working two to three jobs at a time, she always made sure her family was taken care of, including her children.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I almost gave up numerous times throughout my career. Being an entrepreneur is tough, especially with all of the struggles that come with owning a business. My resilience was certainly tested a lot.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies I see, especially in fashion, media, and venture capital, is that inclusion has been “achieved” because a few doors have been opened. There’s this surface-level celebration of diversity, but behind the scenes, many of the systems and power structures haven’t actually changed. Representation without real investment, leadership, or ownership is just optics.
In fashion, we see Indigenous designs showcased, but rarely are Native designers given the same resources, mentorship, or runway opportunities as their non-Native peers. In the media, our stories are often centered around trauma rather than brilliance or beauty. And in venture capital, there’s talk about equity, but Indigenous founders still receive a microscopic fraction of funding.
The lie is that visibility equals progress, but I believe true progress happens when our communities aren’t just included, but valued, supported, and leading. That’s why I’m building platforms, funds, and movements that go beyond lip service and make real space for us to thrive on our own terms.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. In fact, that’s how I’ve done most of my work. As a Native woman, so much of what I do is rooted in purpose, not praise. Our ancestors didn’t need applause to carry forward generations of resilience, knowledge, and love; they just did the work because it mattered.
I’ve built platforms, hosted events, and created opportunities for others long before there were headlines, likes, or recognition. Of course, being seen and appreciated is beautiful, but it’s never been the reason I show up. I give my best because I believe in what I’m building. I do it for my community, my children, and the generations to come after me. I do it because I know I’m part of something bigger.
To me, integrity means doing your best even when no one’s watching. That’s how you know it’s real.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellycamilleholmes
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kholmes4/
Image Credits
548A7951-Edit (by Darklisted Photography)
