Autism Digest Interview with Kia Shine

From Hip-Hop Stardom to Autism Advocacy

Autism Digest Interview with Kia Shine

In the vibrant world of hip-hop, few artists have made as lasting an impact as Nakia "Kia Shine" Coleman. Known for his infectious 2007 hit “Krispy” and his songwriting contributions to Drake’s chart-topping “Best I Ever Had,” Kia Shine has solidified his place in the music industry with his unique sound and lyrical prowess. Yet, beyond the beats and rhymes, Kia Shine is a devoted father and passionate advocate for autism awareness, driven by his personal journey with his son, Jameson, who was diagnosed with non-verbal autism at age two. Through his nonprofit, Autism Advocates, Kia is transforming his platform into a force for good, raising awareness and fostering inclusion for autistic individuals and their families. Today, we’re honored to share Kia Shine’s inspiring story, from his rise in hip-hop to his mission to support the autism community.

A Star in the Making: Kia Shine’s Musical Journey

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Kia Shine burst onto the hip-hop scene with his debut single “Krispy,” the lead track from his 2007 album Due Season. The song, which peaked at number 66 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and number 24 on the Hot Rap Tracks chart, became a local anthem in Memphis, capturing the city’s vibrant hip-hop spirit. Released under Universal Records, Due Season reached number 84 on the Billboard 200, showcasing Kia’s ability to craft catchy hooks and resonate with audiences. His success didn’t stop there—he went on to co-write Drake’s 2009 hit “Best I Ever Had,” earning him four BMI awards and a Grammy nomination, though not without some controversy over credit disputes with Drake.

Kia’s career has been marked by versatility and resilience. Beyond his own music, he’s collaborated with artists like Yo Gotti, Nelly, and Jim Jones, and even hosted an episode of BET’s Rap City in 2006. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found Rap Hustlaz with Jack Frost, selling over 200,000 albums independently and earning him a Southern Entertainment Award for best underground artist. But while his achievements in music are impressive, it’s his personal journey as a father that has defined his most meaningful work.

A Personal Mission: Raising a Son with Autism

In 2012, Kia Shine’s life took a profound turn when his son, Jameson, was diagnosed with severe, non-verbal autism at the age of two. For Kia and his wife, Alecia “Queen” Coleman, the diagnosis was a moment of both challenge and clarity. “We found out when he was two, but the thing about it is, there were signs,” Kia shared in an interview with FOX13 Memphis. Jameson’s non-verbal nature presented unique challenges, but it also opened a new chapter for the Coleman family—one rooted in love, faith, and a commitment to understanding their son’s needs.

Kia and Alecia embraced their role as Jameson’s advocates, learning to communicate with him through a speaking pad and by interpreting his use of video clips and songs to express emotions. Moments of breakthrough, like hearing Jameson say “candy” for the first time at age 12, were monumental for the family, reinforcing their belief in perseverance. “God chooses parents,” Kia told Atlanta Daily World. “He chose us to be our son’s mother and father.” This sense of purpose drove Kia and Alecia to not only support Jameson but also to help other families navigating similar experiences.

Founding Autism Advocates: A Mission for Inclusion

Motivated by their journey with Jameson, Kia Shine and Alecia founded Autism Advocates in 2022, a Memphis-based nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness, promoting acceptance, and providing resources for families affected by autism. The organization was born out of a desire to fill a gap they felt in existing autism support networks. “We felt like we hadn’t seen the activation or engagement from other major autism nonprofits as it pertained to us and to our son,” Kia explained. With a focus on equitable access to services, Autism Advocates prioritizes impacting communities where support is most needed, starting with their hometown of Memphis.

Autism Advocates has made significant strides in just a few years. The organization has been active in Memphis-Shelby County Schools, visiting classrooms to raise awareness and distribute sensory toys, which help autistic children regulate sensory overload. Through their “Give to Receive” program, launched in 2023, they provided $100 Kroger gift cards and sensory toys to 161 families and 22 teachers, recognizing the financial and emotional challenges of raising autistic children. Kia noted that feeding a child with autism can be costly due to specific dietary preferences—like Jameson’s love for Cheerios—making these initiatives especially impactful during the holiday season.

The organization also introduced a mascot, Ace, a dog beloved by children, to bring joy and comfort during community events. In 2025, Autism Advocates launched “Aquatism,” a water safety initiative in response to the heightened drowning risk for autistic children, who are 160% more likely to drown due to tendencies like elopement. Partnering with the City of Memphis, the program aims to integrate water safety training into school curriculums and summer programs, a cause deeply personal to Kia after tragic incidents in the community.

Using His Platform for Good

Kia Shine’s advocacy extends beyond Autism Advocates. Through his Coffee with Kinfolk brand, he and Alecia sell t-shirts and host community events to connect families affected by autism, fostering a sense of solidarity. Their efforts have been recognized locally, with Kia receiving the key to Shelby County in 2022 for his work in raising autism awareness. “It’s deeper than music, it’s deeper than rap, it’s deeper than film and TV,” Kia told WREG, emphasizing that his advocacy is driven by purpose, not applause.

Kia’s music continues to be a vehicle for his message. His performances, like those at Memphis Grizzlies games for “Stunna Frames” night, blend his hip-hop roots with his advocacy, using his visibility to shine a light on autism. He and Alecia also share their story openly, encouraging early diagnosis and intervention. “The thing about autism is that the spectrum is wide,” Kia told FOX13. “It looks different for different people.” By being transparent about their journey, they aim to destigmatize autism and create a supportive community for families who might feel isolated.

An Inspiring Legacy

Kia Shine’s story is one of transformation—from a hip-hop artist captivating audiences with hits like “Krispy” to a father and advocate using his platform to make a difference. His journey with Jameson has taught him resilience, faith, and the power of community, lessons he now shares with the world through Autism Advocates. “We want to be the poster child of a family with autism,” Kia said, emphasizing the importance of representation for families like his. His work is a reminder that autism is not a limitation but a “different ability,” and that with support and understanding, autistic individuals can thrive.

As Kia continues to balance his music career with his advocacy, his story inspires others to embrace their challenges and use their voices for good. Whether he’s performing on stage, visiting schools, or launching new initiatives, Kia Shine is proving that true success lies in making a difference in the lives of others.

Connect with Kia Shine and Autism Advocates

To follow Kia Shine’s music, advocacy, and upcoming projects, visit his official platforms:

• YouTube: https://music.youtube.com/channel/UC5Fnnc4grqPuYMBwZrJZzvw

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kia.shine.9/

• Autism Advocates: Follow on Instagram for updates on their initiatives and events.

Kia Shine’s journey from a Memphis rapper to a Grammy-nominated songwriter and autism advocate is a testament to the power of purpose-driven living. Through his music, his nonprofit Autism Advocates, and his unwavering commitment to his son Jameson, Kia is breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive world for autistic individuals. His story inspires us to see challenges as opportunities, to advocate for those who need it most, and to build communities where everyone feels valued. As Kia continues to shine a light on autism awareness, his legacy—both in hip-hop and in advocacy—will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.