Today we’d like to introduce you to Ayana McDonald.
Hi Ayana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m originally from Westbury, New York a small town on Long Island. As the youngest of five siblings, I had supporting a loving parents who did all they could to provide what I needed. Although we weren’t born with a silver spoon in our mouths, my parents worked tirelessly to provide for their children as immigrants from Jamaica. At a young age, I was taught the importance of hard work, faith in God, education and being go-getter.
As I started to gain exposure through my singing, I realized that I truly had a great gift and surrounded myself with mentors who could finetune and sharpen me, As a result, I received a full scholarship to the world’s leading music college in the world Berklee College of Music.
My music career continued to expand and I’ve been blessed to record, travel internationally, and have worked with some of the most amazing artists ranging from performances, recordings, and events across multiple genres including Michael Mcdonald, Gloria Estephan, the Yellow Jackets, JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise, and Tyler Perry to name a few.
I want to encourage someone reading this story to never doubt yourself or give up. You are capable of more than you could ever imagine. Continue to believe in yourself, remain rooted and grounded in your faith and convictions and nothing will be impossible.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Life will always come with roadblocks and challenges, I’ve learned that our obstacles and challenges prepare us and give us the tenacity we need to walk in our God-given purpose boldly. I’ve had plenty of challenges along the way ranging from financial storms, heartaches, being betrayed and being underestimated. As I stand here today as a success due to God’s faithfulness, what I will tell you is that it gets better, but you have to keep going. If you keep going, you’ll live to see the expected end of what you’ve fought so hard for.
Although I have much more to accomplish, I can say that when I look back on all of the challenges, I’ve faced in my life, I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be the woman I am today had I not encountered them.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My gift is multifaceted, and I think it’s important to utilize all of your God-given talents. Not only am I a singer and recording artist, I’m a business professional in the Financial Technology industry, Minister, leadership coach and founder of a non-profit organization called Kingdom Girls Rock. I’m passionate about helping others and helping them to reach their fullest potential. I’m honestly proud of everything I’m doing right now because it aligns with my purpose. When you’re walking out your purpose, you realize that there’s a unique mark that only you can leave on those you’ve been called to serve. Making a difference in the world is what it’s all about.
How do you define success?
I define success as walking out your God-given purpose every day so that when you look back over your life, you can say the world is a better place because you were here.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.AyanaMcDonald.com
- Instagram: ayanamac
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ayanamcdonald
- Twitter: ayanamac
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/ayanamcdonald
Image Credits
Nathan Pearcy, NP Photography LLC
