“Leaders model what they expect of others.”
Tonya Mayes Founder/Director…..
…has worked with youth throughout the Upstate area over the past 20 years. In 2009, she felt a strong calling to commit her life to her community, to witness to this generation of today’s youth and show them there is HOPE for their future in Jesus Christ. It all began by simply just serving in the community.
Growing up in a single-parent home, in and out of foster care for 7 years and at the tender age of 14, losing her 18 yr. old sister due to gun violence, there was a lot of healing that needed to take place. Being broken & empty, led to making a lot of bad decisions, quitting school, being in unhealthy relationships, substance & alcohol abuse that put her in a downward spiral on a road to self-destruct. Then she was reintroduced to Jesus Christ and has never been the same!
She went on to receive her GED and continued furthering her education in Business Administration earning an ABA & BBA with a concentration in Management. Continuing to evolve in what she considers life as a “forever student” she is now a certified Life Coach, Motivational Speaker, Mentor and holds several certifications in facilitating youth.
The desire to give our “NOW” generation the guidance and leadership tools she didn’t have as a teen motivates her to continue pursuing her passion to not only nurture but reach those who are lost. Her goal is to “die empty” living a life that is an example to others, demonstrating that “Jesus” is the answer to all of life’s problems.
Apart from serving her community, she enjoys spending time with her 3 favorite guys (her loving husband and 2 wonderful sons), reading, snuggled up with a blanket, fuzzy socks, and a hot cup of tea. Her family and friends know her best for her love for Jesus, her willingness to serve others, her listening ear, and encouraging spirit.