The Calla Lily Volume 1 Issue 2 January 2014 | Page 9

to see more youth centers and businesses
so that there can be jobs created; No
equality and no separation.” By not
allowing her environment to become a
setback, Ayanna was able to move forward
to greater things. She acknowledged that
one of her greatest accomplishments thus
far was saying ‘Yes’ to God and starting her
own Non-profit organization, “Butterfly
Wishes.”
When it comes to foundational
strength, Ayanna shares, “I have two
women in my life that I can happily say are
my greatest inspirations. Rosa Lee Dixon is
my grandmother. I admire her strength and
the role she played in life. I believe any
women who has thirteen kids and raised
many that was not hers all while suffering
from an illness and can barely walk - that’s
embodies true strength. She is a women
who loves and teaches love unconditionally,
very wise and nurturing. She helped mold
me into the woman I am today. LaRunda
Fullwood, my mother, I also admire. She is
an influence in my life because she raised
me at a very young age while managing
multiple jobs. She took on life’s challenges
like a steam engine with no complaints. She
has taught me how to be a strong
independent woman and take life as it
comes, to stare fear in its face and take
over the world. For this will always be an
inspiration in my life.”
On the subject of her personal
interests and hobbies, the first thing that
flies out with excitement is arts & crafts.
She is an innovator, getting her ideas from
everyday situations and channeling that
creative energy into her projects. To aide in
her toughest moments and keep a smile on
her face, Ayanna remembers her favorite
quote by Oprah Winfrey – who she strongly
believes everyone should listen to because

Ms. Winfrey is one of the utmost examples
of success:
“The will to win, the desire to succeed, the
urge to reach your full potential, these are
the keys that will unlock the doors to
personal excellence.” -O