Powerful women dominating a market can be just as dynamic and captivating as powerful men excelling in their fields. The strength, confidence, and expertise that these women bring to the table can be empowering and inspiring to others. Whether it’s in business, tech, or other industries, women leading with boldness and vision are changing the narrative, showcasing that success and leadership are not defined by gender but by talent, dedication, and innovation.
In a world where leadership is often equated with masculinity, Kenya Roberson is rewriting the script. As the Founder and CEO of Elite Garment Distro Inc., Kenya is proving that powerful women can not only dominate markets but do so with a unique flair that is as dynamic and captivating as their male counterparts. Her journey from a freelance model to the helm of a globally recognized company is a testament to the power of intuition, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to making a difference in the world.
Kenya’s story begins in the fast-paced world of fashion, where she first cut her teeth at Herve Leger, styling and selling high-end dresses. It was here that she honed her eye for quality and developed a deep understanding of the apparel industry. This early experience would later prove invaluable as she transitioned into the world of clothing wholesale and exports, a sector that is notoriously male-dominated.
“I’ve always relied on intuition,” explains Kenya. “In my industry, it’s not just about buying and selling; it’s about seeing potential where others don’t, connecting the dots, and knowing how to turn a deal into something that benefits everyone involved.” This instinctual approach has been the cornerstone of Elite Garment Distro’s success. The company specializes in purchasing excess inventory from top brands—goods that would otherwise end up in landfills—and redistributing them to markets across the globe.
For Kenya, this work is more than just a business; it’s a mission. “I consider myself a global philanthropist,” she says. “What we do at Elite Garment Distro protects the environment and supports communities around the world. We’re not just moving products; we’re reducing waste and giving these items a second life.”
The inspiration to start Elite Garment Distro came from witnessing a wholesale world that lacked purpose and creativity. “When I started out in wholesale fashion , I quickly realized that liquidation didn’t have to be limited to just Costco, Target, or Amazon products—it could also include higher-end brands. I discovered that I could not only provide fashion apparel to underprivileged markets but also boost local economies and help communities in need. This dual-purpose approach became the foundation of Elite Garment Distro.”
In the early stages, one of the biggest challenges Kenya faced was building a reputation and getting new clients to trust her products—especially as a woman . “Many buyers are understandably hesitant when purchasing from a new supplier,” she says, “so it took a great deal of hard work and persistence. Constant follow-ups and a commitment to quality helped me build the customer base that Elite Garment Distro has today.”
That company has become a niche player in the industry, known not only for its logistical expertise but also for its strong brand awareness and commitment to sustainability. Kenya’s ability to see the bigger picture—to understand where a product will thrive best—has made her a force to be reckoned with in the world of apparel resale. “My zone of genius is connecting the dots,” she says. “I can look at a clothing deal and immediately know which region of the world it’s best suited for. That kind of insight is rare, especially in a field that’s dominated by men.”
Breaking into this male-dominated industry was no easy feat. Kenya faced numerous challenges, from gaining respect among her peers to building a reputation that would allow her to work with top corporate clients. “It took years of hard work and a solid reputation to build the clout I needed,” she says. “But I was determined. I knew that what I was doing mattered, not just for me but for the environment and the communities we serve.”
Kenya’s determination has paid off in spades. Today, Elite Garment Distro is a thriving business that not only turns a profit but also makes a positive impact on the planet. The company’s work keeps millions of units of apparel out of landfills, reducing the environmental footprint of the fashion industry, and Kenya’s philanthropic efforts extend far beyond her business. She’s been active in giving back to her local community in Anaheim and has supported various humanitarian projects around the world, providing clothing and shoes to those in need.
But what drives Kenya? What’s her “why”? For her, it’s simple: making a difference. “I do what I do because it matters,” she says. “Without companies like ours, the world would have millions of clothing items piling up in oceans and landfills. We’re providing a solution to a global problem, and that’s what keeps me going.”
What advice does she have for other female entrepreneurs just starting out? “My advice is to always consider the best solution for both the planet and the company. You can’t focus solely on one or the other—doing so will either cause the company to fail or leave it without a mission. By balancing your passion for fashion with a strong commitment to sustainability, you can create a business that not only thrives but also makes a meaningful difference in the world. After that, it’s just a question of following your heart and being persistent in the face of workplace challenges.”
Kenya Roberson is more than just a successful businesswoman; she’s a trailblazer, a visionary, and a leader who is redefining what it means to be a woman in business. In a world that often underestimates the power of women, Kenya is showing that leadership is not defined by gender but by talent, dedication, and a clear vision for the future.
As she continues to grow Elite Garment Distro and expand her philanthropic efforts, she remains focused on the bigger picture. “This isn’t just about me or my company,” she says. “It’s about making a difference in the world, one garment at a time.”
And in doing so, Kenya Roberson is not only dominating her market; she’s changing the narrative, proving that powerful women can lead with just as much strength, confidence, and expertise as any man—and often, with even more heart.
