Meet Ajawavi Ajavon

 

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

Ajawavi, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.

I grew up in Liberia, West Africa, and during my early years, I struggled with low self-esteem due to being bullied from 5th to 9th grade. It took a toll on my confidence, and for a long time, I felt like I didn’t have a voice.

However, in 10th grade, I made a conscious decision to change that narrative. I started by creating my style and expressing myself in a way that made me feel unique and empowered. I also joined clubs like the ESQ Club, Future Business Leaders, and the Cooking Club, which gave me opportunities to develop leadership skills, connect with like-minded peers, and step outside my comfort zone.

Over time, I found my voice and began advocating for others who were experiencing the same struggles I once faced. That shifted from being silent to standing up for myself and others. This helped me build both confidence and self-awareness.

As an adult, that experience has shaped me into a strong advocate for self-esteem and personal growth. Today, I use my platform to encourage others to embrace their identity, build their confidence, and recognize their worth. I believe self-esteem is something we cultivate through action, courage, and self-acceptance, and I’m committed to helping others on that journey.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I wear many hats, but at the heart of everything I do is empowerment, advocacy, and transformation. One of my proudest accomplishments is DAB Mediation Consultant, where I became the first Black female to establish an independent mediation firm in Delaware. Through this work, I specialize in conflict resolution for families, workplaces, civil rights cases, and more, helping people find common ground and sustainable solutions. I also founded Every Man Counts, Inc., a non-profit organization, a fatherhood program that has been serving the community for over a decade. Our focus is on equipping men with the tools to be active, engaged fathers while also mentoring young men especially those impacted by incarceration through financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and personal development programs.
Beyond my work in the U.S., I am deeply committed to humanitarian and philanthropic efforts in Africa, particularly in Liberia, Ghana, and Cape Verde. My work spans economic development, food security, and community empowerment, ensuring that underserved populations have access to resources and opportunities to thrive. What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to create real, lasting change. Whether it’s helping a young man realize his potential, supporting African immigrants in their transition to the U.S., or working on economic development initiatives in West Africa, I find purpose in seeing individuals and communities thrive.
I also recently launched a podcast, 50 is Bold Self Love Journey, which focuses on empowering men and women over 50 to embrace self-care, personal growth, and resilience.
My journey has always been rooted in service, advocacy, and empowerment. I have founded and co-founded several companies and nonprofit organizations, each with a mission to uplift individuals and strengthen communities.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, I’d say the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been resilience, adaptability, and advocacy. These qualities have not only shaped my career but also allowed me to make a meaningful impact on my community and beyond.
I faced challenges early in life, from being bullied as a child to breaking barriers as the first Black female to establish an independent mediation firm in Delaware and being the first African immigrant woman to contest in politics. Every obstacle I encountered only strengthened my resolve. I learned to push forward despite setbacks and turn struggles into opportunities for growth.
At my core, I am committed to amplifying unheard voices and creating pathways for individuals to succeed. The ability to advocate for others, provide resources, and fight for equity has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey.
My advice for those early in their journey is to start by believing in yourself and taking small but bold steps. For resilience, don’t let setbacks stop you, learn from them and keep pushing forward. For adaptability, stay open to learning and be willing to embrace change. For advocacy, use your voice to stand up for yourself and others. When I became the first African immigrant woman to contest for a political position, I faced many challenges and stayed committed to my purpose. Surround yourself with positive influences, focus on your goals, and never be afraid to break barriers.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was make the ultimate sacrifice of leaving their country of birth to immigrate to the United States. They gave up everything familiar, their home, culture, and community to ensure I had access to greater opportunities and a better future. Their courage, resilience, and determination shaped my drive to succeed, give back, and create opportunities for others. Their journey taught me the true meaning of perseverance and the importance of building a legacy that uplifts others.

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