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About Us

Our members and mission

Aya House was founded in 2024 as a physical manifestation of the founders’ love of Detroit and its people. A social club and convening space for Black changemakers, Aya House represents what becomes possible when our people gather with intention. Housed within its parent company, MotorCity Mimosa, Aya House extends a vision that elevates culture, cuisine, and community in a luxurious environment where leaders can collaborate, recharge, and innovate.

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Our Story

The mimosa flower, from which MotorCity Mimosa draws inspiration, is renowned for its delicate beauty and profound symbolism. It embodies sensitivity, resilience, and the ability to thrive under challenging conditions. Despite its fragile appearance, the flower blooms brightly even in harsh environments, reminding us of the strength and softness required to endure and flourish. The name "Aya" is drawn from a West African Adinkra symbol that mirrors the mimosa flower’s essence. Aya signifies a steadfast spirit and the ability to rise above adversity. Together, the mimosa flower and Aya symbol form the heart of Aya House’s identity, grounding the space in a philosophy of resilience, grace, and renewal.

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At Aya House, we honor Detroit’s changemakers by curating a beautiful, functional, and deeply intentional space. Every detail reflects our core belief that Black communities deserve access to luxury. From décor and design to programming and partnerships, we infuse cultural pride and integrity into the fabric of the house. Our programming pillars—Holistic Wellness, Fellowship, Culture, Community, and Learning—span from yoga and sound baths to impact brainstorming sessions, craft clubs, barter banks, and digital innovation labs. Through signature events, residencies, and member-led convenings, Aya House nurtures both individual and collective growth. The community’s spirit is anchored by the Aya House Oath, a pledge by members to uphold values of integrity, collaboration, and cultural empowerment. Inductions reflect the personal connections, inspiration, and belonging that leaders find within the space.

Meet Our Members

Our Founding Members

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Tonya Adair

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Chief Development, Diversity & Engagement Officer

United Way for Southeastern Michigan

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Heidi Alcock

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Director of Grant Development & Strategy

McGregor Fund

 

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Margrit Allen

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National Director Workforce Programs

Trinity Health

Monica Anderson

Monica Anderson

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Executive Director 

Remembering Cherubs

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Myka Burley

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Associate Director, Skills

Michigan Central

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Ebony Cochran

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Founder & CEO 

The Debt Survivor LLC

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Sirrita Darby

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Executive Director

Detroit Heals Detroit

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Alexis Dishman

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SVP and Chief Lending Officer

Community Reinvestment Fund USA

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Shadora Ford

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Jerjuan Howard

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Executive Director

Umoja Debate League

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Cheryl Johnson

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CEO 

COTS Detroit

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Kimberly Johnson

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Dayna Peoples

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Dean of Intervention

Voyageur Academy

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Cyekeia Lee

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Nakia Powell-Thomas

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Courtney Smith

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Sherri Smith

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Owner/ House Manager & Program Coordinator

Nims Juicery & Wellness / Mama Akua Community House

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Terry Whitfield

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General Members

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Ashley Burton-Mims

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Founder & CEO

Emerald & Rose Consulting

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Aaron Hardy-Smith

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Alyshia Williams

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Facilities Assistant

Aya House

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Aquan Grant-Wayne

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School Support Specialist-Detroit Focus

GVSU/Balance Power

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Cyrelle Wheeler

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Facilities Assistant

Aya House

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Jazzmin Pitts

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Lorin Burke

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Clinical Director

Positive Change Counseling PLLC​​​

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Monica Marie Jones

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Phaedra Wainaina

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Dr. Tameka Arnold

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Special Education Supervisor

Oakland Schools 

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Temma Jones

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Business Sales Manager

Comcast Business

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Whitney Stallworth

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Facilities Assistant

Aya House

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William White II

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Facilities Assistant

Aya House

Friends of Aya House

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Anica Crook

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Phyllip Hall

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Founder

App Factory

Organizational Member

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