Dear friends and family, It’s hard to know how to start a post like this. What do you say when your hearts are heavy with loss, angry with unjust systems, and saddened by violence?
While there aren’t any good answers, we write today with his mother’s blessing to honor and celebrate the beauty, creativity, and vision that Kwiese Hughes brought to the world.
Kwiese was a graduate of Amplify’s 5th cohort and was shot and killed on Monday, April 15, 2024.
Kwiese had been working for Freedom Forever Solar since 2022 after earning his solar installation certification through Amplify. He was also known widely as a talented clothing designer who taught himself to sew and was working relentlessly to bring his brand to the national stage.
It was not uncommon for people to see him driving through the neighborhood in the solar van after work with the ladder on top and a load of new merch for sale in the back.
Even more important though than the moves he was making, is who he was as a person. He was a loving son, father, brother, friend, artist and entrepreneur.
The Amplify staff who walked closely with him have said it the best:
“Kwiese - aka baby son - was and will always remain one of the brightest lights to enter into our Amplify family.” - Quiana Chapple, Director of Program Operations
“A true superhero, Kwiese always displayed his superpowers in everything he did. He was the kind of person whom others naturally gravitated towards. We were all blessed to share a part of our lives with him.” - Sean Phillips, Director of Learning & Innovation.
Kwiese - you were deeply loved and respected. You made each of our lives better. We will carry your name and spirit forward. To our friends and partners, please do join us in sending love and light to his family.
