We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ayana Bennett. Check out our conversation below.
Ayana, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
I’ve been called to teach in ways I didn’t know I was capable of doing. I’ve found joy in teaching people how to swim and working in the mental health field again.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello, my name is Ayana. I’m known as author Mai B. An author of children’s books. I was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. I now reside in Georgia with my husband and two girls. I began writing children’s books in 2017 after being encouraged by my mother. I now have 5 children’s books and multiple coloring books. Now my oldest has followed in my footsteps and has written 2 children’s books of her own.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
While I do write children’s books, at one point I wrote urban fiction books. I felt powerful because I was able to release something that I had been holding onto for a long time. For once, I had control over something that was mine and mine only. I was able to tell stories how I wanted to tell them. The same goes for my children’s books.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Of course. Who doesn’t have a story about almost giving? I’ve written 50 urban fiction books, 5 children’s books and have created many coloring books. One would think that I’d be retired or able to relax off my books. Yet, that’s not the case. While I could, I believe I have another calling on my life. With the many times where my books didn’t do well, I questioned if I was good enough to keep writing books. I have almost wanted to give up many of times but I didn’t. It’s ok to take a step back and reset before ever giving up.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My family. My family means everything to me. Being a mother is my biggest accomplishment and everyone knows how I feel about my babies.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That whatever I did, I gave it my all. That anything I touched, I left an impact of some sort. That I inspired people to keep going, even when things got rough.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Author Mai B
- Facebook: Author Mai B
