Meet Nya Abernathy: Public Educator & Curriculum Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nya Abernathy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nya Abernathy, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I actually do not believe in balance. In my estimation, work/life balance is a myth. Often we are convinced to chase this moment where everything feels “balanced” – the laundry is done, the kids are fed, the groceries have been bought, the bills have been paid, the projects are on time, the emails have been answered, the meetings have been scheduled…but do we ever ACTUALLY get there? No. And if we do it is momentary, at best. I prefer to think of it as engaging in life-giving rhythms. The rhythm of water or the rhythm of music changes, can slow, can speed up, and everything doesn’t come crashing down around us like we were spinning plates. There are adjustments to be made, and we can do that. There may be seasons where the rhythm is heavy on vocational or educational endeavors. During other seasons the rhythm brings us in tune with our familial or relational needs most. Also, these rhythms aren’t just seasonal, but daily and weekly as well. There will be days that are work-heavy, and days that are rest-heavy. Rhythms don’t require perfect balance, but an ebb and flow of what is needed at the time with the space to improvise when necessary.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business, The Dignity Effect, is a company that offers education and community for those seeking relational well-ness. This could be interpersonal, or across communities, which gets into the peacemaking focus. Though the company is faith-informed, it is for anyone, regardless of spiritual identity, who is hopeful and curious about the world become more like what it should be – equitable for the flourishing of every creature. It was a personal journey that led me to create and build a business. Though it wasn’t easy, I wouldn’t say it was hard. I never set out to start a business. This is where The Journey led me. I’ve learned that you cannot force what needs time to grow. Even after starting my business there was much discovery and learning to get me to a place of clarity. I couldn’t have sped that up, even though I often wanted to! I’m a big believer in timing, and the business is right where it is supposed to be.

My story is one of going through some of the most hopeless years and the journey to realizing my dignity and the dignity of those around me. I recognized that I wasn’t the only person who was on this journey or needed to go on it. This brand is my story with hands and feet. It is the giving of my story of discovery to those who are seeking, curious, and unsure. Yes, that journey is not easy, but it is always, always worth it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First, if my best friend is with me for a week we are taking mornings EASY. She hasn’t met my one year old yet due to the pandemic, so knowing her she’d spend the mornings hanging out with him and my 4 year old to make up for time. So after that, we’d be off!

A few times in that week, we’d go hang out at Gilly’s Brew Bar – may favorite coffee spot. We’d go enough times to try every elixir (they change seasonally!) and have a few good coffees too!

Capers Restaurant and Bar would be something nice we’d do for a delicious dinner and drinks one night.

We’d spend time at Stone Mountain Park out in nature, talking, breathing, laughing!

There are a few places for lunch we’d go throughout the week:
Hancook’s
Yummy Vegan Takeout
Tassa’s Roti Shop

Treats:
Just Add Honey
The Yard Milkshake Bar

We’d have to visit Dekalb Farmer’s Market because it’s amazing and we love a good market!

The Civil Rights Museum because it was breathtaking and so educational the first time I went.

For Keeps Books is a must.

We’d do a lot of walking around downtown and in smaller “downtowns” around Atlanta

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m dedicating this shoutout to Megan Kennedy. She is, as many would say, part of my “Days 1s”. She has been my friend and family since we first met. Over the years we have moved through life, working, starting businesses, raising families, moving – and she has been a voice of support, wisdom, and encouragement throughout it all. I’m sure I would not be who I am today without her in my life, reminding me of what she saw in me – especially when I’ve doubted it. Love you, sis.

Instagram: @thedignityeffect

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUIeNIlV7ETeHuqV2b5YtIw