Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashley Nicole Bowen. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Ashley Nicole thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

My journey began at the age of five when I witnessed the traumatic murder of my first cousin. This harrowing incident left a lasting impact at an early age, leading me to pray for understanding and my purpose here in life. I firmly believe that no child should endure such horrors, and I felt even at such young age that God called me to rescue children who are suffering. To not only provide them with a safe haven but also to provide love, resources and the care needed to flourish in life.

In kindergarten, I would fight with my teacher as she’d try to wake me from our daily nap. Little did she know that those naps were the only time I could actually sleep and feel safe. This led to my expulsion which resulted to me having to go home at 11am everyday.
My principal knew something was not right so she dug deeper. To find out that I was suffering from trauma and ptsd. She then understood that I found solace and safety in her teacher’s classroom, and it was the only time I could get proper rest. This experience gave birth to the name of my nonprofit organization, The St. Haven Academy Inc.

Over the past two decades, I have pursued various avenues to grow closer to building my nonprofit and making a difference. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in geology and accounting from the University of Alabama, aiming to become the first African American Female Geologist for the Geological Survey of Alabama. I furthered my education by obtaining a Master’s degree in Public Administration, equipping myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to establish and lead a nonprofit or governmental organization. I finished at the top of my program with honors. Yet still unsure how to develop this dream that I had been carrying for so long.

Throughout my adolescence and collegiate years, I carried this vision in my heart. Not knowing the specifics of how or when I would fulfill it and despite my academic achievements, I’ve faced challenges in fully understanding how to connect the dots to the visions I have for my nonprofit. For the past four years we have held an annual Christmas Charity that has unfortunately not landed us the desired results.

Just recently, I have had a moment of reflection, questioning whether I should shift my focus entirely to my 501(c)(3) organization instead of relying on the success of my other career ventures to fund the boarding school vision. I’ve wondered if it is God’s intention for me to concentrate on the calling that has been on her heart for the past 33 years.

With unwavering determination, I have decided to take the leap and commit to my divine mission. I recognize the immense need for an organization that can provide love, support, and a safe haven for so many children. Especially now with child trafficking being at an all time high. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my mission and I hope to inspire others to support, pursue and fulfill their own purpose in life as well.

Donations can be made to support St. Haven Academy Inc. at any Georgia’s Own Credit Union branch. All partnership and community requests can be sent to [email protected] or Text 678-662-8460
IG: @sthavenacademy

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

After taking a traditional career path of college and becoming the First African American Female Geologist for the Geological Survey of Alabama, I started my Event Management company in 2010 where I successfully coordinated over 200 weddings and events. Koll Kay & Company LLC

I later started a small business and hospitality consulting firm C.S. Myles Group LLC where I’ve assisted in business development, marketing and even public relations.

These career paths have afforded me many great life experiences but it is now my duty to pursue my true purpose in life. Thank you for this opportunity to share!

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Covid 19 nearly crashed my event business. I was forced to focus more on the growth of my Consulting Firm and I so grateful I did!

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Going through a domestically abusive and unpleasant divorce in the midst of Covid and being left to solely care for my four children with very little help. There have been many days I just wanted to give up but that still voice within and my babies sweet faces just keep saying to me “keep going it will all make sense one day”! So here I am still going relentlessly!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sthaven.org
• Instagram: @sthavenacademy
• Other: Personal IG @the__ashley_nicole

Image Credits
Enka Lawson Photography