Today we’d like to introduce you to Zaria Jones Dudley.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started The Sunflower Pot after I had the opportunity to work with children in multiple countries (Japan, Italy, Bahrain and more) as a counselor/director for military children. While traveling, I was able to learn and adopt different cultural values that I now implement into my everyday life. Being abroad has given me the opportunity to expand my perspective and give life a new meaning.
When first meeting my children in Japan this past summer, I told them that my name was Miss. Sunflower because I did not want them to know my real name. Their initial reply was “That is not your name, you are not a flower”. I ensured them that I was and I had proof. As a child, I was diagnosed with severe eczema which left me with marks that resemble plant roots. I showed my children my arms and said, “See, look, I told you I was a flower”. They were all amazed and believed that I was, in fact, a Sunflower. While working with my children in Japan, I was able to see the importance of healing and keeping my inner child alive and vibrant. Through games, conversations and different activities, I allowed myself to open up, play and experience the joy of life. Those children have taught me so much that I decided to name “The Sunflower Pot” in honor of their importance in my journey. I was able to travel to over ten countries in the last 3 1/2 years and I now implement a variety of ancient traditions and practices into my everyday teachings. I love guiding people back to themselves and sharing the knowledge that I have discovered through reading, traveling, and my own personal journey!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
So far, the road has been very adventurous. My community has been super supportive of this journey. I am to meet people that I never thought I would meet and I have the opportunity to explore different pathways. Being an entrepreneur has been so rewarding. I am able to learn myself and others through my work and I am able to see past the limitations of “success.”
We’d love to hear more about your organization.
The Sunflower Pot is a nonprofit organization located in Riverdale, GA. We hold workshops and classes that assist children in adopting self-encouraging habits into their everyday lives. We specialize in self- actualization techniques, Visualization exercises, and natural living.
Our mission is to aid children all ages in creating a life that serves them. I emphasize their creation process being that if they are the creator of their realities and everything around them is their creation, then what are they creating? I created The Sunflower Pot to give children a welcoming and exciting place to discover and learn their inner voice and guidance system.
I am most proud of following my purpose and giving children an opportunity to understand their imagination and their unique perspectives.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t really believe in luck. However, I think family, integrity, and being present has played a vital role in my life and business. It allows me to stay grounded during unsure times and situations.
Contact Info:
- Website: Thesunflowerpot.com
- Phone: (678)492-8152
- Email: Thesunflowerpot27@gmail.com
- Instagram: zariajonas and thesunflowerpot_
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
