We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ashleyh Korgar. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ashleyh below.
Alright, Ashleyh thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
The greatest risk I’ve ever taken was surrendering what I wanted in exchange for what God wanted for me. Sometimes the very things we desire can still put us on the “right” path, but our why and the way the road unfolds, is where we often find ourselves at odds with Him.
That was a hard lesson in my journey of risk-taking. I used to live in the spotlight—red carpets here, movie premieres there, radio segments, event hosting. It was exciting and affirming. But over time, I realized much of what I was doing centered on bringing glory to myself. And that’s not how Kingdom assignment works.
I was out of alignment.
It wasn’t until I began releasing the things that weren’t truly of Him that clarity came. In the shedding, I discovered purpose. I began to understand what I was genuinely called to do, and that is to serve, pour into, and walk alongside the youth and young adults in my community in a way that reflects Him, not me.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I was born and raised in Raleigh. After returning home from earning my master’s degree at Norfolk State University, I began working at Hope Leadership Academy. During that time, I landed my first radio opportunity with G105 on the morning show formerly known as “Bob & The Showgram.” For a season, everything felt aligned and exciting.
Eventually, I transitioned back to a place many of us in Raleigh grew up knowing and loving—The Raleigh Girls Club. Not long after, I stepped into the role of Program Director for the Teen Center, the high school division of Boys & Girls Club. That’s where the calling truly became clear.
The Club allows me to pour back into my community, specifically into the young people who will become the change-makers of this city, this state, and beyond. I lead through exposure and lived experience, which sets me apart in youth development spaces. I don’t just teach lessons—I walk them through finding or creating open doors.
Over time, God showed me that going to the Club each day wasn’t simply a job; it was a privilege. One I nearly mismanaged by focusing on frustrations instead of recognizing the deeper purpose behind my presence there. For some, it’s an afterschool program. For me, it’s ministry.
When parents send their teens to the Club, they sign them up for a after school program, but what they really get is a space where they can discover purpose, build confidence, grow in courage, and experience healing in ways they may not even have language for yet. I’m deeply grateful for the gifts God has given me, because through them I’m able to connect with and lead effectively.
I carry those kids on my back. If there’s a band concert or dance recital, I’m there. If there’s a game, I’m on the bus with the Club behind me. Serving teens and creating a space where their families feel supported and connected, builds more than programming. It builds family. It builds community. And that’s the heart of what I do.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Simply put, I’m a product of the Club. That lived experience, paired with relatability and divine alignment, is what makes this work so personal for me.
Many people say you have to leave your hometown to truly grow and explore the world, and I agree. I’ve had the opportunity to travel to incredible places, even as far as Australia. But seeing more of the world only confirmed what was already in my heart: to return home and pour back into the very place where staff and former directors once poured into me.
There’s something powerful about coming full circle.
I’m especially excited about what’s ahead. Through the resources and connections available at the Club, I’ll soon be bringing a new vision to life—one that will allow me to continue serving while also building confidence through beauty, creativity, and self-expression. It’s another way to help young people see themselves fully, boldly, and beautifully.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
As a creative, there will always be space for you to bridge your creativity with wherever you are. Even in seasons where you feel like you’re simply showing up to make sure the bills are paid, there’s still room to create. There’s still room to build.
That’s one of the reasons I love the Club. Not only do I get to work with an age group that’s energetic, imaginative, and eager to create memories, but I’m also able to merge my passions with purpose.
If I want to launch a podcast, there are teens ready to explore media and storytelling. If I want to form a dance team centered on expression, there are young people who connect deeply with movement and want to grow. If I have a vision for a clothing line, there are fashion-forward teens who are excited to design, strategize, and bring it to life with a full showcase.
It’s truly a space where I can show up as my full, authentic self—while still teaching, mentoring, and pouring into the next generation with intention and impact.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Ashleyh_Yemia
- Facebook: Ashleyh Yemi’a
- Youtube: Ashleyh Yemia
