Hello my name is Keshia Carter Bowen, I was born in Duarte, California and moved to Monrovia in the ninth grade and have been here ever since. I graduated from Monrovia High in 1988 – Go Wildcats. I am currently the owner of Simply Divine Barbershop – a Salon, Beauty Supply, and Training Academy.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have two adult sons, Diondre and Damion Haynes, and two grandchildren, Camauri and Cayleigh.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am a licensed cosmetologist, and an Educator and Director at Simply Divine Barbering and Cosmetology and Academy. I have a heart for my community and love to mentor youth. It is my desire to either employ or assist in getting a license in the beauty or barber industry for every local youth that I come in contact with.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Sena
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have been a business owner in Monrovia for 30 years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Elouise Tye, one of my high school teachers that truly cared about all of her students.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I would probably travel to Egypt and learn more about the history
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
One of my favorite movies is The Pursuit of Happiness
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Dream big, work hard, and believe in yourself
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Go on an African Safari
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Kirk Franklin – Gospel Artist
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Oprah Winfrey at Sena
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
One of the favorite things to me about our community is how most people make you feel welcomed!
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Right here in Monrovia
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
That I am a big cry baby about certain situations!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Hawaii
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
My favorite month is June, favorite holiday Flag Day, best single day on the calendar June 14.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Morning walks on the beach
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My Dad
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Lavender is my favorite smell
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Safety, relaxation, growth
