Dr. Kazique Prince is the founder of Jelani Consulting LLC, a DEI strategist, executive coach, and bridge builder dedicated to cultivating trust, connection, and innovation. With a background in psychology and African-based philosophy, he has spent over two decades helping corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies create inclusive cultures where diverse perspectives thrive. He also developed the Djembe Card Deck, a transformative tool that sparks courageous conversations, and launched Plates & Perspectives, a community-building initiative. His mission is simple: break barriers, build trust, and inspire meaningful change—one conversation at a time.
Could you elaborate on the nature of your business, highlighting its purpose and the ways it benefits people?
I run Jelani Consulting, a DEI-focused firm I founded in 2007. We work with corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies to create inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. Our goal is to improve organizational inclusivity, foster trust, and drive innovation through diversity.
One of our key tools is the Djembe Card Deck, a relationship-building resource designed to spark meaningful, courageous conversations on race, gender, ability, citizenship, and more. Unlike other DEI tools, which can feel like lectures, the Djembe Deck uses problem-based responses to encourage listening, empathy, and real connection.
I also launched Plates & Perspectives, a community-building initiative where people gather over food to engage in deep, transformative dialogue.
What inspired you to start your journey as a coach and entrepreneur? Were there any specific events, challenges, or people that motivated you to take this path?
There is real pain and exclusion happening all over the world. I wanted to be a part of something to end the exclusion. I’ve always been passionate about creating spaces where people feel heard, valued, and included. My background as a trained psychologist with a focus on Black theology and African-based philosophy helped me see how systems of exclusion impact individuals and communities.
When I started Jelani Consulting in 2007, I saw the disconnect between DEI theory and real-world practice. Too often, DEI was about policies, not people—I wanted to change that. That’s why I developed the Djembe Card Deck—to make inclusion a lived experience, not just a corporate checkbox.
Looking back at the beginning of your career, what were the major challenges you faced when establishing yourself as a leader/coach? How did you overcome those obstacles?
One of my biggest challenges was getting organizations to see DEI as more than compliance—it’s a business necessity. Many were hesitant, either due to political pushback or a lack of understanding about the real impact of inclusion on innovation and success.
I overcame this by meeting people where they are, framing DEI as an opportunity rather than an obligation, and developing tools like the Djembe Card Deck to make these conversations more accessible and engaging. The key has always been empathy, education, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.
Would you like to share any remarkable achievements?
One of my most significant achievements was contributing to the Mayor’s Task Force on Institutional Racism and Systemic Inequities in Austin with nearly 300 leaders from across the region. This initiative addressed systemic racism across sectors like education, housing, health, finance, and criminal justice. Collaborating with diverse leaders, we developed actionable recommendations to dismantle institutional barriers and promote equity in our community.
Additionally, I played a pivotal role in the Spirit of East Austin initiative, a partnership between the City of Austin and the community aimed at breaking down historic barriers to jobs and opportunities east of Interstate 35. Launched in September 2015, this initiative focused on listening to East Austin residents and responding to essential community needs, fostering a climate of equity and inclusion.
These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my commitment to creating inclusive spaces and driving systemic change.
Women are a growing force in the workplace worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. What are your thoughts about women in leadership today?
Women leaders are reshaping leadership norms—bringing empathy, collaboration, and resilience to the forefront. But the challenge isn’t just getting women into leadership roles—it’s ensuring their voices are valued, heard, and acted upon.
We need to shift from expecting women to adapt to outdated leadership models and instead build leadership structures that work for everyone.
What message/advice would you have for future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs?
✔ Own your voice. Leadership isn’t about fitting into someone else’s mold—it’s about shaping your own.
✔ Find your people. Build a network that supports, challenges, and amplifies you.
✔ Take up space. The world doesn’t just need more women leaders—it needs more of what women leaders bring to the table.
