"Life moves so fast, so I think God everyday that I am still standing!" -Kawand S. Crawford
Kawand S. Crawford was born August 8, 1969 in Brooklyn, NY. He was raised in Marlboro Projects, just a few blocks away from Coney Island. While attending Lafayette High School he played many sports including varsity football.
Kawand traded a life of sports and education for the fast life of the streets. After years of committing crimes and selling drugs during the 1980's, the streets labeled him one of Brooklyn's biggest drug dealers. On June 20th 1990, Kawand's life was forever changed when he was seriously injured in an accident, which left him paralyzed from the chest down.
In 1994, after losing several close friends and family members to street violence and prison Kawand made the decision to give up the life of fast money and crime. Soon after he created "Keep It Real Management" a company formed to manage and cultivate aspiring recording artists. This company combined with his street credibility gave birth to the nickname "Don Kawand". Don Kawand soon realized to effectively manage careers, including his own, he needed to further his education.
In 1996, Don Kawand enrolled in Medgar Evers College, a City University of New York. While attending college, Kawand received numerous awards for academic excellence from various campus organizations. He was recognized by the University Student Senate, and received their Profile of Courage Award for outstanding achievements and being an inspiration to individuals with disabilities.
In 1998, Kawand landed his first major recording deal for his group "On Fire", formerly known as Madd Mob. This talented group of individuals was discovered in Marlboro Projects, located on the west side of Brooklyn. The group was signed to an independent label, "In the Middle Entertainments", founded by the infamous hip-hop legend Fab 5 Freddie.
In 1999, Kawand graduated with his Associates degree in Business Administration's. His love for education and business made him continue his studies at Medgar Ever College.
In 2002, Kawand finally graduatedwith his Bachelors degree in Accounting. Shortly after graduation he moved to Georgia. After reading "The Coldest Winter Ever" he was inspired to write and publish his own work.With the help of Dragon Dictate, a voice recognition program he was able to complete his first novel by the spring of 2003.
In 2003, Kawand met Minister Candy S. Williams (R. I. P), founder of AA Life pUBLICATION. After being blown away by his manuscript she assisted with the publishing and release of "Love, Loyalty & Dangerous Games" in 2004.
After popular demand and inspiring reviews, Kawand wrote and released "Dangerous Games No Love No Loyalty" a sequel to his first novel. Kawand is currently working on a third novel while looking to land a major distribution deal.
Kawand S. Crawford has grown past his teenage life of crimes and has given his life to God. He hopes through his writings that he can inspire and encourage troubled teenagers not to follow the path he once took.
Kawand S. Crawford's novel "Love, Loyalty & Dangerous Games" is not only inspiring but filled with drama, suspense and an ending that will take your breath away!
