#goalsConfidential: Ayana Haaruun, Black Girls Jump, Hawaii

#goalsConfidential highlights the inspiring lives and advice of multicultural women living and working internationally.

Describe the work that you do?

Black Girls Jump provides needed, fun and free programs to encourage physical fitness amongst children and adults. Research indicates black women and girls are the least likely groups to exercise. Our organization provides children’s programs and adult meetups to get and keep our communities fit and healthy.

Can you tell me about where you grew up? How did that influence you?

I grew on the Southside of Chicago, where I played double dutch jump rope throughout my youth. Ironically when I formed the organization I worked with other women who had also grown up in my neighborhood! Playing double dutch as a child provided me with an in depth understanding of jump rope as a street game and it’s place in African American girl culture. I also developed a passion for passing double dutch on to younger generations and working with children in communities like my Chicago Southside neighborhood.

If you were your own coach, what coaching would you give yourself right now?

If I were my own coach, I’d train myself to focus on work/life balance. I’m often juggling lots of things, which requires working all the time. As a personal coach, I’d have myself practice embracing down time. In addition to running Black Girls Jump and finishing my PhD, I’ve recently started a family, while caring for an aging parent. Balance has become very important.

What ritual or routine has improved your life the most?

I try to do and finish one thing at a time. I’ve found slowing down and focusing has allowed me to get more accomplished.

What piece of clothing, food, or self-care practice makes you feel beautiful?

I’m a big fan of full body massages. I also enjoy visiting Korean Spas for body scrub treatments.

What have you learned from other cultures that has influenced your work?

I’ve traveled quite a bit and learned many influential things. Living in Hawaii in recent years I’ve learned the importance of quality of life, which includes work and play. I’ve also been inspired by Asian technological interest and worked to integrate mobile and web technologies in my organization.

Originally posted 2018-04-16 06:00:20.