Wykeria Jones - Bethune-Bowman High School '14

A 2014 graduate of Bethune-Bowman High School, Jones credits her upbringing in the Bowman community and her experiences in Orangeburg County schools for shaping the person she is today. “Growing up in Bowman, I was just a small-town girl who was very versatile. My community poured into me and nurtured my talents, whether it was academics or athletics. Even though opportunities sometimes felt limited, I always believed that if I prepared and worked hard, I could go wherever I wanted in life,” Jones said.

During her time at Bethune-Bowman Middle/High School, Jones built an impressive legacy. She was a 1,000-point career basketball player, earned consecutive SCHSL All-Region honors in volleyball and basketball, and served in JROTC leadership and Student Council. She was also crowned Miss Bethune-Bowman, adding to a history of leadership that began earlier when she was named Miss Bethune-Bowman Elementary School and Miss Bethune-Bowman Middle School. Jones also pursued hands-on career training through the district’s technology program at the Orangeburg County Technology Center, where she studied cosmetology, gaining early exposure to career and technical education opportunities. Today, Jones is the founder and owner of KTake Lab Productions, a creative media company currently undergoing a major rebrand ahead of an upcoming launch. Based in the Atlanta area, she works across the entertainment and media industries, collaborating on projects with notable creatives and organizations. Her industry experience includes working with DaBaby through Billion Dollar Baby Entertainment and contributing to a Back-to-School commercial campaign with Drewski, a popular comedic entertainer and social media personality.

Despite her growing success in the entertainment industry, Jones remains deeply committed to mentorship and education. In Fall 2025, she stepped into the classroom at McDonough High School in the Henry County School District, where she taught an Audio/Visual Technology and Film course. During the semester, she helped students create their own short films while also connecting them with professionals from the media industry.

That success led to additional opportunities, including serving as a Sports Media Coordinator for McDonough High Athletics, where she helps students develop skills in sports media, production, and digital storytelling. Before moving to Georgia, Jones also played a key role in developing student media programs within Orangeburg County. She worked with athletics departments at Bethune-Bowman High School, Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School, and Branchville High School, helping students learn media production and sports storytelling while building skills they could take into college and careers.

For Jones, investing in students is personal. “What attracts me to working with young people is their hunger. I remember what it felt like to be a student-athlete chasing opportunities and wanting to succeed. When I see that same drive in students today, I want to help guide them and show them how far their talents can take them,” she said.

Jones continues to mentor students long after graduation, keeping in touch with many who have gone on to attend institutions such as Clemson University and Claflin University, where some have continued pursuing media and creative careers. Reflecting on her own journey, Jones says one of her biggest goals has always been to show others from small towns that their dreams are possible. “My biggest goal growing up was to show people that it can be done, coming from a small town. To the students who have big dreams, my advice is to network, reach out, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Connect with people who are doing what you want to do, be consistent, and build your path. What some people think is just a hobby can become a career if you believe in it and put in the work,” she expressed.

Through her work in media, education, and mentorship, Jones continues to prove that great talent can come from anywhere and that the determination to succeed can inspire an entire generation. Her journey from a small town in South Carolina to working in the media and entertainment industry serves as a powerful example for students who dream of creating their own path. She remains committed to opening doors for young people and helping them realize that their goals are within reach, no matter where they begin.

“Wykeria Jones is a shining example of what can happen when determination, talent, and community support come together. We are incredibly proud to see one of our graduates making an impact in the media industry while also pouring back into the next generation of students. Her journey shows our students that no matter where you come from, your dreams are possible with hard work and dedication,” said Dr. Shawn Foster, Superintendent of Orangeburg County School District.

For additional information, please contact Taylor R. Johnson, Communications and Multi-Media Specialist, at taylor.johnson@ocsdsc.org or 839-253-2070.