Spark Spotlight Community Leader - Aisha Adams
Photo Credit: Aisha Adams
Aisha Adams is the founder of the consulting firm Equity Over Everything. Over the last few years, she has played a pivotal role in training equity advocates, fostering inclusivity, and cultivating policy, practice, and procedural changes. Aisha is widely recognized for her contributions in cultivating spaces of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as her impact on the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In 2020, she received prestigious awards including The Tzedeck Impact Award, The Martin Luther King Award, WomanUP Women Entrepreneur Best in Business Award, and the Jane Renfroe Coach of the Year Award from Mountain Bizworks. Aisha's other ventures include hosting a daytime-style talk show that addresses "hot button" issues in Asheville, and managing Nappy Thoughts, a personal blog followed by thousands on social media. She earned her bachelor's degree in English from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and her Master of Science degree in Adult Education. When she isn’t working, you can find her climbing the leaderboard on Peloton, watching true crime shows, and spending time with her family.
1. Please tell us a little bit about the work you do in the community, and how you came to take on those roles...
My name is Aisha Adams, and I am the founder of Equity Over Everything and Aisha Adams Media. In addition to these roles, I serve on the board of the YWCA, manage programs for Black Wall Street AVL, and executive produce The Asheville View. Each role came about organically, driven by my passion for community service and connection.
2. What aspects of your personality have enabled you to be a leader?
I see myself as a facilitator of community-driven change, rather than a traditional leader. My ability to champion the ideas and initiatives of others, collaborate with my neighbors, and prioritize community needs has been crucial. Leadership, to me, is not about individual traits but more about being chosen by the community you are serving. For instance, my recent work with Black Wall Street AVL on GrindFest, a three-day event aimed at amplifying black-owned businesses, exemplifies my commitment to executing community-driven visions for positive change.
3. What challenges have you faced on the road to leadership?
Serving others presents numerous challenges, from navigating complex relationships to balancing personal well-being with community demands. By actively listening to community members, striving to understand their needs, and leveraging my skills effectively, I've learned to navigate these challenges and serve others more effectively over time.
4. What is the most rewarding aspect of the work you do?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is collaborating with my family. Working closely with my husband and witnessing my children - Doriyan and Lilly experience community engagement firsthand brings me immense joy. Seeing my family and community grow together, supporting one another, and creating positive change is truly fulfilling.
5. What other leaders have inspired you to shape the type of leader you want to be?
While I draw inspiration from many sources, it's the resilience and perseverance of elders that have laid the foundation for community activism. Additionally, working with organizations like GO Places, which empowers young adults, has been incredibly inspiring. Their innovative spirit and determination motivate me to continue serving and advocating for positive change.
6. What do you tell other women who aspire to leadership roles in their community?
My advice to aspiring leaders, especially women, is to prioritize service over leadership titles. Take the time to listen, learn, and understand the community's needs before assuming leadership roles. Building trust, fostering relationships, and collaborating with others are essential for making a meaningful impact. By focusing on serving others authentically, aspiring leaders can create lasting change and empower their communities to thrive.
