Our Champions

Aniya Mayo graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro where she earned a Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology. Aniya found her passion in working with the youth while volunteering and directing various youth programs. She later founded Growing the Distance Inc, with the mission to serve as a positive outlet and resource for children, by providing mentoring, academic development, character building and more. Aniya is an active youth advocate, and works selflessly to meet kids where they are and run the race to adulthood with them.

 Sherena Sabla is the Co-Founder and Co-Director of Growing the Distance Inc. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Ms. Sherena has nearly ten years of experience in childcare, including two years teaching middle school English at one of the nation’s top-performing charter schools. During her time at North Star Academy, she was recognized as the top-performing teacher in the network for two consecutive years. A lover of books, Ms. Sherena has a personal library of over 80 books. She is deeply passionate about youth and remains a strong advocate for education and resources for children and families.

Ms. Abbey is passionate about working with kids and creating a fun, supportive environment where they can grow and thrive. As the daughter of a teacher, she has always valued education and mentorship. She’s been working with Growing the Distance for nearly a year, supporting our kindergarten and first-grade students with care, patience, and enthusiasm. Her previous experience as a youth travel soccer coach gave her hands-on opportunities to develop leadership skills and foster teamwork. Outside of work, Ms. Abbey enjoys cooking, watching movies, staying active, and spending quality time with her friends and family.