Today we’d like to introduce you to Anasha Chavez- Asforis.
Hi Anasha, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started my professional career as a Program Coordinator of Syracuse University’s Science and Technology Entry Program, a program geared to serving underrepresented youth. It was there, I was able to put some of my fundamental truths into practice, consequently uncovering what is now my pedagogy, my system of belief that informs both my personal and professional practices. I explored the concept of “whatever you think, you can create”, and when you offer space for youth to do, create… essential BE, they can accomplish anything. I have been holding these two principles as the foundation of my work ever since. This is the foundation of my leadership as the Executive Director of Carpenter Art Garden. I have the great honor of carrying out our mission; growing young creatives through art, education and vocation in the Binghampton community.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I was once told, “No one likes a boring read”, to that end, the road has not been smooth. My life has undergone many different plot twists, all leading me right here. A lot of the obstacles I had along the way, in hindsight, served more as light post for my future. For example, I suffered in silence from anxiety for years, but this “suffering” led me to discover the importance of peace and being in the present moment. This “suffering” has led me to bring hundreds of youth and adults alike to Mindfulness. I have been able to use my discomfort as a guide for others, assisting others in finding freedom in 3 deep breaths.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am most known for my work in youth development and mindfulness. I am often requested to design youth programming that is unique and meets the intended goals and objectives. My research in Mindfulness practice is currently being used to assist future and current social workers and clinicians. I am also known locally as the “mother of TruBros”, as my two sons, Amir, 15, and Amaru, 12, have been running a local beverage company for the past six years.
I am most proud to finally be able to formulate the words to call myself an artist. As a lifelong academic, I had no clue, I was indeed an artist. I often thought my desire to incorporate art in everything I did was a way of simply connecting to clients as a therapist. I later discovered, being an artist was at the core of who I am as an individual.
It’s hard for me to say what sets me apart from others, however, I do know I have an uncanny ability to be optimistic. I truly believe, “everything is ALWAYS working out for me”, even when it seems unclear.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Being genuine. We are all here to express the fullness of who we are! I believe this can only be done by approaching life with authenticity. I believe in practicing vulnerability in every facet of my life. I define vulnerability as being who you are, where you are, without questioning why you are. There’s absolutely no pretense here. The more we exercise our personal freedom to Just BE, we give others permission to do the same, thus contributing to the creation of a more compassionate world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carpenterartgarden.org
- Instagram: carpenterartgarden901
- Facebook: carpenterartgarden901
