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.

Zion Cunningham is a bilingual honors graduate of Grimsley High School, where she completed her studies with distinction and accumulated over 150 hours of volunteer service—more than 100 of those dedicated to working in childcare facilities and classroom settings. She also earned her Early Childhood Education credentials and holds current CPR certification. Zion is passionate about child development and plans to pursue a degree in speech pathology and audiology at Old Dominion University. Outside of her academic and professional interests, she enjoys watching the WNBA, exploring new restaurants, and shopping.

Ms. Travaris has been working with children for over two years and has loved every minute of it. She has gained experience in various childcare settings, including schools, daycares, and summer camps. Ms. Travaris enjoys getting to know each child individually, appreciating their unique qualities, and helping them utilize their gifts for their own growth and the benefit of the classroom community. 

Ms. Travaris served in the Navy for four years while majoring in Women and Gender Studies. Her ultimate goal is to teach women how to connect with their personal power. In her free time, Ms. Travaris enjoys reading and spending time with friends. She has a fondness for sweet treats and anything in the shade of blush pink.