Tanya Downing is a Christian, wife, mom, sibling and friend to many. She prides herself in curating healthy, reciprocal relationships, with intentional space that is rooted in mutually enriching and genuine connections. She joined AAWI with the intention to network and create a support system which fosters emotional and physical well-being while encouraging personal & professional growth in order to enhance the quality of life for African American Women of Indiana and their families. She enjoys making memories with her family and friends, traveling, reading, and trying new restaurants across the country.

Hello, I’m Deljere Hall and I’m from Kokomo, Indiana. I’ve been a part of AAWI since August 2021 and it has been everything I needed.

The Networking, Friendship and the Sisterhood  has really impacted my life .

My name is Angela Bailey, I’m a mother of three boys with multiple career hats. I joined AAWI to find like-minded women who also wanted to expose their children to a positive environment, positive experiences, and people that will help them grow in confidence and social skills.  AAWI introduced my sons and I to live theater at Beef & Boards, African dancing with IIBADA, and boat sailing with Youth Empowered. We’ve developed genuine friendships with many of the families in the organization. Since joining AAWI I have become a Co-Chair with Dhawana Laing for the Kids and Family Event committee, it has been very rewarding creating events to bring families and friends together. 

Joining AAWI has been a transformative experience for me, providing a valuable connection to Indiana’s African American community. Through AAWI, I have had the pleasure of meeting remarkable women who have become cherished friends and trusted confidants. Together, we have embarked on adventures across Indianapolis, forging bonds that have turned into a supportive personal advisory board as we journey through life and craft lasting memories.

As someone who relocated to Indiana, AAWI has been the cornerstone of building a nurturing village for my husband, Reynard Brown, and our two sons, RJ and Rich. Collaborating with Angie Bailey, the Co-Chair of the Family and Friends Committee, I have had the opportunity to spearhead diverse events that enrich our community and celebrate our collective spirit.

My name is R. Diana Gadson-Jennings. I am a Disability Case Management Trainer. My husband and I live in Westfield In where we are raising our family. I joined AAWI to network with positive women in a safe space. I have met so many wonderful and supportive women from all walks of life. I look forward to collaborating on various projects in the community and just enjoying each other’s company.

My name is Suzane Fatima Diop and I am a full-time working wife and mom of 2 boys ages 11 and 5. We love to travel as a family and learn about the culture of the places we visit. I joined AAWI to build friendships with African-American Women in my community. Instead I found a sisterhood of positive women ready to build, uplift and support me and my family. AAWI fosters a community of amazing women in a safe and friendly environment that work with each other and refers its members to the best in the community.