Kyleigh Kuhn is a dynamic force at the intersection of activism, artistry, and global stewardship. Raised as a 6th generation resident of Marin County California, her journey began with a deep-seated compassion and a drive for social change that defined her path as a model of global citizenship.
From an early age, Kyleigh immersed herself in the mission of Roots of Peace, an organization founded by her mother, Heidi Kuhn, dedicated to planting peace through agriculture by transforming war-torn regions into thriving agricultural communities. Kyleigh's work with Roots of Peace has taken her across continents, from the minefields of Afghanistan and Bosnia to the scarred landscapes of Colombia, Croatia, Israel, Palestine, and Vietnam. In each of these places, she has supported initiatives to clear landmines and cultivate sustainable agriculture, turning once-hostile environments into sources of growth and renewal, transforming “mines to vines”.
Kyleigh's impact extends beyond agriculture. She has raised funds and led efforts to construct two schools and refurbish four others in Afghanistan, earning recognition with one school named in her honor as the Kyleigh Kuhn School. These endeavors have provided essential education and resources to communities ravaged by conflict, underscoring her commitment to fostering hope and rebuilding lives.
In addition to her humanitarian initiatives, Kyleigh has been a staunch advocate for empowering rural artisans. By promoting traditional crafts such as intricate jewelry and carpets, she not only preserves cultural heritage but also creates economic opportunities, particularly for women, thereby strengthening community resilience and promoting economic independence.
A graduate of UC Berkeley with a degree in Peace and Conflict Studies, and hired as a Programs Representative by the department, Kyleigh combines academic knowledge with hands-on experience. Her education has equipped her with a deep understanding of global dynamics, which she applies to her efforts in promoting peace, sustainable development, and social justice.
Kyleigh pioneered new territory in the fashion industry as a ‘Model for Peace’—featured is such distinguished marketing campaigns for VOGUE, Glamour, Pirelli, The GAP, Coca-Cola, Pandora, Tom’s Shoes, etc. Captured through the lenses of Bruce Weber, Patrick Demarchelier, and Steve McCurry, she imbues the global peace movement with an understated grace. Her presence in Coca Cola commercials, set among the farmers supported by Roots of Peace in Vietnam, underscores her unwavering dedication to healing war-torn lands. In the 2013 Pirelli Calendar, amidst the favelas of Brazil alongside Adriana Lima and Karlie Kloss, she stands as a symbol of women changing the world.
Kyleigh Kuhn masterfully blends commerce and compassion. Through Noble House Spice, she supports farmers by importing their spices, while her Theory of Care saffron tea ritual promotes mindfulness. In Afghanistan, she creates a yearbook for her namesake school's students, symbolizing resilience. Collaborating with Pamela Love, she designs moon phase jewelry, reflecting renewal. Each endeavor, from entrepreneurial ventures to personal projects, embodies her commitment to global care and change.
Kyleigh Kuhn's next endeavor, Pegasus Gardens, promises to be a transformative venture blending her passions for sustainability, community resilience, and artistic expression. Inspired by her extensive work with Roots of Peace, Pegasus Gardens aims to cultivate not only thriving agricultural spaces but also nurturing environments for local communities. With a focus on integrating sustainable farming practices and promoting cultural heritage through art and artisanal crafts, Kyleigh seeks to create vibrant hubs of creativity and sustainability. Pegasus Gardens represents Kyleigh's ongoing commitment to leaving a positive impact on the world, echoing her dedication to peace and empowerment through innovative initiatives.
In every facet of her life, Kyleigh Kuhn exemplifies a commitment to leaving the world more peaceful and purposeful than she found it. Through her support of Roots of Peace, advocacy for artisans, her dedication to education in Afghanistan, and raising her two young children, Forest and Adeline, she leaves a lasting legacy of compassion, resilience, and hope amid global challenges.
