Cierra Sisters' New CEO Shayla Akande Continues Mother's Vision
Shayla Akande, the new CEO of Cierra Sisters, recently appeared on "The Day with Trae" to discuss her decision to lead the organization and its vital work in the community. Akande described her transition into the role as a "full surrender," explaining that she had submitted her own plans to a higher power years ago, recognizing that her personal journey was not entirely her own. She recalled asking her mother three years prior about a succession plan for Cierra Sisters, only for her mother to confidently respond, "You?" Despite her busy life as a mother, master's student, and Microsoft employee, Akande prayed about it. Following her mother's passing in December, and with her mother having meticulously prepared her trust and will, Akande felt it was time to accept the call to become CEO. She believes that since saying "yes," blessings have flowed to the nonprofit, which she emphasizes is a legacy, "bigger than me and it is for us by us."
Akande provided background on Cierra Sisters, an organization founded over 28 years ago by her mother after a personal experience with breast cancer. Her mother was initially denied a mammogram due to her age and race but insisted, leading to the early detection of her breast cancer. Cierra Sisters was born from this experience, dedicated to supporting Black women and women of color through their breast cancer diagnoses. The organization ensures that the community is aware of clinical trials, self-breast exams, and screenings. Beyond medical information, Cierra Sisters offers holistic support, including providing groceries and transportation, essentially serving as a "mother to the community." A current focus is on supporting caregivers, an area Akande and her sister experienced firsthand, recognizing the need to prevent burnout for those caring for loved ones with the disease.
The conversation also touched on the profound importance of community support during illness. Akande shared the challenging yet beautiful experience of caring for her mother, emphasizing the strength found in overt communication and honesty with her sister. They learned to lean into asking for help, allowing their community to provide meals and continuous presence at the hospital, as Cierra Sisters believes no one should be alone during such times. Akande reflected on the overwhelming outpouring of love for her mother, with up to 70 people visiting the hospital on the first day word got out. This organic community support, she noted, helped them avoid the isolation that many families face during difficult times.
Looking to the future, Akande is excited to bring to life the dreams she and her mother shared for Cierra Sisters. She recalled a conversation with her mother about the organization's legacy, a vision she is now eager to realize. Upcoming events include the "Wellness on the Block Festival" on July 19th, featuring a block walk to distribute life-saving information, followed by a party with bingo, food, and holistic wellness services, including mental health support and nutritionists. Akande is particularly enthusiastic about increasing breast cancer awareness through interactive tools like "black boobs" for teaching self-breast exams. Having returned to her community after six years away, including during the pandemic, she is excited to be back with Cierra Sisters, serving the community "with their boots on the ground." Her vision includes expanding Cierra Sisters to different cities and states, becoming a safe and healing space for the community. Akande encouraged everyone to follow Cierra Sisters on social media and their website, https://cierrasisters.org/, to stay plugged into their events and support their vital work.
