Meet Dr. Nia Imani Bailey | President, Radiation Therapist, Activist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Nia Imani Bailey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Nia Imani, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired by the incredible individuals who make up the Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation. Our board members are a source of inspiration for me, each bringing their unique talents and dedication to our mission.

Shogunny McBeth-Alexander, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, our Vice President, not only excels in her role but is also a breast cancer thriver and a remarkable nurse practitioner. She is a multifaceted individual, balancing her roles as a mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend while also owning and founding GLOW is Beauty.

Our Executive Director, Trudean Haye, hailing from Jamaica, is a shining example of success with multiple businesses under her belt, including the nonprofit organization ITAVFoundation. She is a pillar in her community and excels in her roles as a wife, mother, and friend.

Narda J. Fields, our Director, has overcome adversities to become a successful 2x author, chef of More Than Kale Meal Prep and Catering, business owner, and leader of the Women of Dignity nonprofit organization. She is a source of inspiration as a loving mother, daughter, and friend.

Brittany Young, B.S., L.E, our Development Director, is a visionary and trailblazer in her field. As the founder of MarkedbyB, she is a true standout in all her endeavors.

Jenna (they/them – she/her) and Katelyn (she/her) Bucolo, RN, our LGBTQIA+ Directors, are paving the way for future generations to embrace their true selves authentically and beautifully.

Dr. Monique Gary, DO, MSc, FACS, FSSO, our Medical Advisor, is not only a skilled oncology breast surgeon but also the founder and CEO of Still Rise Farms, demonstrating a commitment to giving back to the community.

Board Member, Curry J. Bailey III, M.Ed., is a dedicated humanitarian, father and grandfather who dedicates his life being a voice for change.

Board Member, Jarrod Hill, B.A, is a trailblazer and proud husband, father and owner of 4 Hills Junk Removal. His team not only declutters physical space but also mental spaces as well.

Board Member, Alvin R. Fields, B.A, is an artist and forward thinker who is dedicated and passionate about creating authentic experiences.

Shannon Stones, M.EdL, our Community Engagement Director, is a dedicated mother and successful business owner of PhilaBag and PAJ Organics, serving as a role model in both her personal and professional life.

Dr. Samuel Elenwo, MPH, CPH, CIC, our Public Health Director, is a respected expert and forward thinker in public health, policy, and affairs, guiding our organization towards our common goal of saving lives through education, equity, and unbiased information.

Together, we are united in our mission to make a positive impact on the fight against cancer.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation embodies what we preach – love, support, and care for the world. Our foundation was established not to reinvent the wheel, but to provide resources, support, and information to the community. We understand that nothing worth fighting for comes easy, especially when it feels like we are racing against time in our mission to eradicate cancer mortality.

In our journey, I have learned to keep faith in God, trusting that He will guide my steps and lead me on the right path. Our foundation is committed to making a difference, to show the world that we truly care, and to work tirelessly towards the goal of eliminating cancer as we know it. Together, we strive to bring hope, support, and healing to those affected by this devastating disease.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My desire is to see the world and communicate in all languages, spaces, and times. I aim to speak, understand, and share information across diverse cultures and communities to make the Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation as effective and impactful as possible.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A big shoutout to our beloved Byrd Family, from whom our name is derived. Our Byrd Family is a rich tapestry of love, stories, and pride in our Ethiopian and Cherokee heritage, primarily hailing from South Carolina. We are a diverse group of forward thinkers, comedians, God-fearing individuals, artists, doctors, lawyers, authors, and so much more.

We honor and remember the legacy of remarkable individuals such as Jurell Sr., Marie, Errol, Loraine, Chris, Mattie, Ann, Cora, Bobby, Herman, Josephine, Pat, Celestine, and countless others who have shaped our family history. The entire Byrd Family is deserving of more than just a little credit and recognition – they deserve ALL of the credit and recognition! It is through their influence and guidance that we stand here today, united and inspired by our enduring legacy.

Website: https://ByrdCancerFoundation.org

Instagram: @byrdcancerfoundation

Linkedin: Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation

Facebook: Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation

Youtube: Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation

Image Credits
@DominiqueNicole