Today where being “the only” is far too common for women of color in professional spaces, so Dr. Karmetria Burton is building a platform that dares to do things differently.
As a seasoned corporate leader, passionate mentor, and founder of the PYLR Foundation, she’s not just talking about equity and empowerment — she’s creating it.
“I’ve often been the only Black person or the only woman in the room,” she says candidly. “That experience shaped everything. It showed me how important it is to not just survive those spaces, but to lead them — on our own terms.”
That realization was the driving force behind PYLR, a leadership platform designed to equip women with the skills, confidence, and community they need to thrive. Whether they’re entrepreneurs or executives, PYLR gives women the tools to level up, lean in, and lead differently.
From Corporate Rooms to Transformational Impact
Dr. Burton’s journey through corporate America was both the proving ground and the blueprint for PYLR. She saw firsthand how often Black professionals are expected to navigate leadership without a roadmap — or support. PYLR, in many ways, is her answer to that gap.
Her mission doesn’t stop at the present moment. The PYLR Foundation takes her vision one step further, focusing on two key groups: women and youth.
“I know what it’s like to need resources and not have them,” she shares. “I created this foundation to make sure the next generation of women leaders are ready before they even enter the room.”
The foundation’s youth initiative, PYLR Junior, prepares young women to step into leadership early. “When you change the life of a woman,” she says, “you change the trajectory of generations. That’s why we focus on both current and future leaders. It’s how you build legacy.”
Healing Through Sisterhood
One of the most powerful outcomes of PYLR has been the transformation of mindset and healing. Dr. Burton recalls a participant in her mastermind program who came in skeptical and guarded, carrying what she calls “sister wounds.”
“She didn’t believe in sisterhood,” Burton explains. “She had been hurt. But by the time she completed the program and connected with other women, she realized sisterhood is not just possible — it’s powerful. She also learned that in order to have a sister, you must be one.”
It’s that kind of transformation that fuels Dr. Burton’s purpose — and reminds her why the work matters.
Staying Grounded, Leading with Purpose
With so much on her plate, how does Dr. Burton stay grounded? She credits prayer, meditation, self-care, and a strong, supportive community.
“You need people around you who will keep you focused, hold you accountable, and remind you who you are,” she says. “I call them my reality checkers.”
When asked what advice she would give to someone looking to lead with purpose, her answer is clear and compelling:
“Just do it. Find your passion and move it forward. Link arms with people who care about the same things. Create lasting impact. But no matter what — don’t stop. Keep your foot on the gas and just do it.”
Connect with Dr. Karmetria Burton:
Instagram: @drkarmetriab
LinkedIn: Dr. Karmetria Burton
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