Ayana Bean, born and raised in Boston, MA, is an activist, speaker and advocate for at risk women. She is a member of several organizations that have an agenda to end mass incarceration by pushing for prison reform. As a former financial aid adviser, music industry event curator and consultant, Bean is no stranger to the rhythm of life’s highs and lows. From being an entrepreneur, to making unlawful decisions that resulted in her being sentenced to prison for financial fraud. Released from prison in 2014 she began her road to redemption. Ms. Bean is featured in the BET American Gangster (Trap Queens) series Part 2. Episode 7
“The biggest challenge I have faced in business and in life is fear. It can be difficult to take on anything being afraid. Fear can stop you. Overcoming it is the win. “
Patrice: What is the name of your business and what does it intel?
Ayana: Besides being an activist and speaker, I am now a new author. My first book called “A Year and A Day” is based on my life growing up and the challenges I faced. Life of crime and heart aches. Through another business venture I purchase commercial and residential property investments.
Patrice: I definitely feel that your story will touch others, especially for women who have been through the same thing you have been through. Have you faced any challenges so far?
Ayana: The biggest challenge I have faced in business and in life is fear. It can be difficult to take on anything being afraid. Fear can stop you. Overcoming it is the win.
Patrice: Fear can definitely stop you dead in your tracks to what and where you want to go in live. Are you currently working on any current projects right now?
Ayana: Yes, my book “A Year and A Day,” working in the community to provide resources for at risk youth, and women re-entering into society from prison.
Patrice: Wow! Sounds amazing! What you are doing in the community is absolutely worthy and needed. How do you face diversity as a woman/man entrepreneur/author?
Ayana: As a woman there is always seems to be a lower standard as far as worth and as a Black woman even lower than that. It’s about facing it and sticking to your values, morals and worth.
Patrice: I totally agree with you! We all know that balancing your personal life and career can be challenging at times. For you, is balancing your personal life, work life and business life difficult for you at times?
Ayana: It used to be. I wasn’t great at the time management at first, but I have mastered it now and it’s much better.
Patrice: Time management can be a working progress but it’s a great tool to accomplish. Do you have any new projects or events coming up?
Ayana: I am planning a book tour once our world tour dates are confirmed to open up safely.
Patrice: Sounds like a plan! A book tour is always great to introducing the world to your new book. So, what does being an entrepreneur or business owner mean to you?
Ayana: It’s means strength; accepting and acknowledging the strengths we possess. We are capable of all possibilities and just go for it.
Connect with Ms. Yana Bean:
IG: @ms.yanabean
Twitter: Ms. Yana Bean
Facebook @ ms.yanabean
“The biggest challenge I have faced in business and in life is fear. It can be difficult to take on anything being afraid. Fear can stop you. Overcoming it is the win. “
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