Meet Our Team
Mama Sydney
With over 10 years of experience working with children, Mama Sydney Duran brings her youthful perspective and professional maturity to every student. She has a diverse educational background, ranging from a Master of Elementary Education, California and Arizona Multi-Subject Teaching Credential, Bachelor of Psychology, and the many cultural, professional development workshops that she's participated in over the past 6 years. Mama Sydney utilizes the lessons learned from working in African-Centered educational institutions and study groups to oversee program direction, curate personalized learning plans, and deliver a high quality, relevant, insightful, and uplifting education.
Sewaa Ntombikayise (Novina)
Sewaa (Auntie) Ntombikayise (Novina) Alcantara is a proud graduate of AYA Educational Institute (Class of 2025) and is currently attending college. Her long-term goals include earning a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, pursuing a Master’s in Library and Information Science to one day manage a library and launch her own online crochet shop. She is driven by a passion for organization, helpfulness, and connecting people with knowledge.
Mama Najai
Mama Najai Knox is a cultural education consultant and highly experienced guide. She has spent the last 8 years developing wholistic African-Centered self-directed learning initiatives and partnering with educational programs around the world. From facilitating outdoor educational programs to co-directing virtual academies, Mama Najai continues to commit herself to African/Black youth through live courses, curriculum design and development, land stewardship, and more.