Today we’d like to introduce you to Anesha Horton
Hi Anesha, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Anesha Horton, I’m 39 years old, and my life has been a journey of transformation, growth, and love. I’m a mother of three incredible children and a bonus child who brings even more joy into my world. I’m blessed to be with the love of my life, which is something I never imagined while navigating through the challenges of my past.
I was born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, and from an early age, I faced internal battles. At age 13, I started struggling with mental health and found it difficult to express myself. That period of my life led me down a path where I made choices that placed me in abusive and toxic relationships. I didn’t know how to break free, and I didn’t understand how to love or value myself.
When I was 25, I thought I had found the key to happiness. I got married, believing that turning to my faith and going to church would provide me with the life I’d been dreaming of. I thought it would heal my past wounds and give me the security I longed for. Life, however, had other plans.
That marriage ended, and while it was difficult, it became a turning point for me. It taught me that healing comes from within, not from external expectations or circumstances. I began a journey of self-love. Seeking therapy, exercising, journaling, and accepting that I cannot change the past nor can I determine the future is what brought me to a new level of peace. I started to live day to day. Aiming to be a better version of who I was the day before has been my overall goal since then.
Now, I’ve moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where I’m raising my children and continuing my journey. Being with the love of my life has shown me that real love is patient, kind, and healing. It doesn’t fix everything, but it gives you the space to grow into the person you’re meant to be. He loves me unconditionally, he embraces who I am, and all of my insecurities . My story is far from over, but I finally feel like I’m walking in the right direction, and for that, I am grateful.
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?
Between the ages of 14 and 17, I struggled with low self-esteem and low emotional intelligence. As a kid in that era mental health was not discusssed or even accepted as much as it is now. Due to the lack of resources and education my choices left me feeling lost, alone, rejected, and depressed.
At 19, I faced a life-altering challenges when had my oldest son, Alijah, I gave birth prematurely at 24 weeks. My child’s early arrival brought along health complications and lifelong disabilities, placing a heavy emotional and physical burden on me as a young mother. Navigating the healthcare system and advocating for my child’s needs became an overwhelming responsibility.
During this time, his father was not consistent with helping raise him so my family and friends were my biggest support system. He is now 19 years old amd has graduated high school. He is training for work and wants become an actor and model.
I got married in 2013. During this time my realtionship with God grew stronger. I learned to forgive myself for my younger mistakes as God healed my heart. Unfortunately my marriage couldn’t survive the changes and overtime we grew apart. I separated from my ex-husband and became a single mother again.
Financially, life became a struggle after my divorce. The costs of 3 children and raising a child with special needs added to the stress of being a single mother, making it difficult to make ends meet.
As a Black woman, I encounter societal challenges, stereotypes and biases that made my journey even harder. I often felt judged and overlooked, which compounded the struggles of motherhood and financial instability. Despite these obstacles, I’ve learned to be resilient, finding strength in my experiences and the determination to create a better life for my children.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I currently work full time as a Auto Injury Claim Specialist. In my previous jobs I worked as a Negotiator, Claims Specialist, Tax Preparer, and in my earlier years, a Teacher’s Aide. I am most proud of my kids and graduating with bachelor’s degree in Business Administration being the first of my intermediate family to do so. What sets me apart from others is my confidence, resilience, and attention to detail.
My business is called Unique Ruby. We create positive affirmation clothing and are Home of the 3 B’s T Shirt. We want everyone to feel empowered by what they wear! My son and I also own a non- profit organic called. The Rubies Foundation of IL and GA. We are building a community for people that just want to be Unique and can feel empowered while doing so. We provide tools to help develop high emotional intelligence and self care tips to help individuals feel like themselves!!
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I like that I am able to find something to do everyday. I like being embraced by the culture and the opportunities it gives in my career and for my children’s education. I dislike the unprofessionalism I’ve experienced when out at local businesses. The overall “rudeness” shows a lack of customer service in the area.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anesha_horton/profilecard/?igsh=aGQ5NzQzZ2I5cXhn
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aneshah2?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Twitter: https://x.com/Baegottinesha?t=mhwE8yVXB44aUJ1pHfB9CA&s=09
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/therubiesfoundation?igsh=MXN6czRoc2w0cnAzbg==
Image Credits
Zach Adams
Mekeila Nashae
Nakia Janet Chrystal Poole
Ezra Ferguson
Katina Howard
Anesha Horton
Ayodele Abitogun
