Coach Ayesha Watson: The Community Leader Transforming Lives in Atlanta

In the heart of Atlanta, where community service meets education and advocacy, Coach Ayesha Watson stands as a driving force for change. Her impact stretches far beyond titles and accolades — she is a mentor and advocate for youth empowerment. Through her leadership with the NAACP National Council and DeKalb County, as well as her hands-on involvement in local schools, Ayesha has become a guiding light for those seeking opportunity and support.

Her work isn’t just about creating programs — it’s about creating pathways. Whether through the Principal’s Advisory Board, her youth mentorship initiatives, or her award-winning career development programs, Ayesha ensures that young people have the tools they need to succeed. From launching an annual toy giveaway to spearheading community clean-up efforts, her dedication to public service is deeply personal. Every initiative she leads stems from a desire to uplift those who need it most, reminding us that real change happens at the ground level, one life at a time.

What inspired you to start the Annual Holiday Christmas Toy Giveaway 11 years ago?

Coach Ayesha: What inspired me to do my annual holiday Christmas toy giveaway 11 years ago was I was a single mom and I wanted to be able to support other single moms who had children to be able to have and to be able to support their children and families during the holidays.

Can you share a memorable moment from past toy giveaways that truly touched your heart?

Coach Ayesha: I have so many memorable moments through my toy giveaway. It’s just so hard to recall, but I can always say that every year the community as well as my organization looks forward to being able to serve even more families with food, resources, toys, gifts, clothing, anything they need to make their holidays joyful .

How do you determine which families receive toys, and what is the process like for distribution?

Coach Ayesha: Would determine which families can receive toys through a form we do a inquiry form which every year families have to fill out a form to say their knee they have to say how many people in their household they have to kind of tell what is kind of leading to them in a small synopsis of them, not being able to be able to afford a great Christmas or holiday for their family And we try to accommodate those needs as much as we can.

What kind of community support have you received to keep this initiative going strong for over a decade?

Coach Ayesha: For over a decade, my community support has continued to grow year after year, month after month. It’s through our staff and the continued families that we serve. Through United Way, Atlanta Fulton County Recreation, Walmart, Atlanta Community Food Bank, Social Security Administration, through our federal and state programs, and through personal referrals, we continue to thrive and to be able to support the community.

In addition to the giveaway, you also run a free food pantry. How has this resource impacted families in the community?

Coach Ayesha: Our food pantry is free to families who need food to help feed their families daily. We do not charge, it is absolutely free to the community, especially hard-working families who are working and struggling today. It's just to keep food on the table.

You are currently fundraising for a mobilization unit to provide on-the-go mental health services for children. Why is this initiative important, and how will it change lives?

Coach Ayesha: I am currently raising funds for a mobilization unit so that we could be able to provide mental and behavioral services in the community and so individuals and families don’t have to come to our local office, we can go to them.

What kind of support do you need from donors, businesses, and the community to make this vision a reality?

Coach Ayesha: Support, I would love from donors is Financial or monetary donations, Food, New clothing or school supplies.

After 11 years of the toy giveaway, what’s next? Are there any new projects or expansions on the horizon?

Coach Ayesha: The next project that we have on the horizon is expanding our technical training school that will focus on individuals that have mental and physical disabilities. We have a program that has over 500 certification skills and training base courses. The individuals can receive the skills and talents that they need to be able to get out here in the working career force and thrive.

For over a decade, Ayesha Watson has remained a pillar of hope and action, bridging gaps in education, youth development, and social services. Her vision for stronger, more connected communities continues to evolve, with new initiatives aimed at providing mental health resources and expanding technical training for those facing barriers to employment. But no leader succeeds alone. It takes collective effort, support, and engagement from the very communities she serves.

For those looking to be part of this movement — whether through volunteering, donations, or advocacy — there are countless ways to get involved. Ayesha’s mission is proof that when people come together with purpose, the possibilities are limitless. To support her work, follow 5678 Dancenow.inc on social media, visit www.exploringyourpurpose.com, or reach out via email at [email protected]. Because real change starts with showing up — and Ayesha Watson is showing up every single day.

Connect further via social media:

Personal Instagram: @coach_ayesha

Business Instagram: @5678dancenow.inc

TikTok: @coach_ayesha