.png)
Black History Month Spotlight: Dayna Peoples
- AYA HOUSE
- Feb 2
- 2 min read
February 2, 2026
Dayna Peoples is a Detroit educator, mother, business owner, and community builder whose work is rooted in literacy, joy, and intentional living. A proud West Side native and Cass Technical High School alum, Dayna now calls the East Side home as she continues to live out her dreams and expand her impact.
In a few words, Dayna describes herself as energetic, positive, and deeply committed to children, families, and learning. She quite literally follows children around Detroit helping them read and grow, and she has built a career around making literacy engaging, joyful, and accessible. As a co-founder of Detroit Kids Matter, her work centers not only young people, but also the parents and caregivers who support them, because, as she reminds us, they matter too.
Dayna’s connection to Aya House began simply and intuitively. When TeQuion told her it was the place for her, she trusted that knowing. Over time, Aya House became more than a membership. It became home. The space, the people, the values, and the culture all resonated deeply with how Dayna shows up in the world.
When asked how she defines wellness, Dayna speaks honestly and intentionally. Wellness, for her, is taking care of yourself with purpose and without guilt. She has learned firsthand that you cannot pour from an empty bucket, so she prioritizes building joy into her life while continuing to care for others. Literacy, in her work, is not just academic. It is embodied, lived, and joyful.
Dayna’s contribution to Black life, love, and legacy is clear. Her work encourages lifelong learning and a genuine love of reading. She wants books to feel inviting, meaningful, and connected to identity. Her hope is that when people see her face and hear her name, they feel inspired to pick up a book and start a conversation.
She draws inspiration from Langston Hughes, admiring his role as a leader during the Harlem Renaissance and his ability to use literature as a tool for pride, resistance, and cultural affirmation. That same spirit shows up in how Dayna defines Black love. For her, it looks like being surrounded by like-minded people, showing up authentically, giving back unconditionally, and intentionally ensuring her Black daughter has access to opportunities she herself may not have had.
At Aya House, Dayna resonates deeply with the spirit of collaboration, creativity, and collective strength. Being a member has shaped her both personally and professionally, teaching lessons she applies daily. One of the most beautiful outcomes of her involvement has been the ability to grow her own community through her relationship with Aya House.
When asked what she would say to someone considering membership or sponsorship, Dayna keeps it simple. Come to an event. Let the experience decide for you.
Looking ahead, Dayna is curating a parent-centered community rooted in life, love, and literacy. She knows Aya House will play a vital role in that journey, and she’s excited to continue building alongside a community that feels like home.
Dayna Peoples reminds us that literacy is not just about reading words, it’s about shaping lives, nurturing joy, and building futures together.
@Dayna Peoples