Ayonnah Tinsley
Introduction and Mission
Ayonnah Tinsley, is a remarkable advocate for STEAM education and an influential content creator, who has made significant strides in inspiring the youth through her engaging platforms, @YaYaStars and @stemix.sports, on Instagram. Her journey began with "kids by kids travel reviews" in elementary school, evolving into a space where she now posts enriching STEM content. With the onset of her college years, @STEMix.sports emerged as an extension, focusing on the science behind our favorite sports.
One of Ayonnah's most notable achievements is the publication of her children’s book titled “This Is What an Engineer Looks Like” during high school. Authored by Ayonnah herself, this book aims to educate students about diverse STEAM jobs. Her objective is to increase the representation of women and minorities in STEAM careers, starting from a young age. This project was not just a publication but a journey of learning about publishing and illustration, igniting her passion for advocating relatable STEM education resources.
Values and Impact
Ayonnah's guiding principle is to create content that teaches and inspires, particularly younger students. She revels in the joy of enlightening students about the vast possibilities within STEM, breaking stereotypes, and expanding horizons beyond the conventional understanding of STEM careers. Her efforts are centered on demonstrating that STEM is expansive and diverse, much more than just an acronym.
Workforce Insights
Even though Ayonnah often works solo on her speaking engagements, book writing, or content creation, she actively involves her friends in her projects. Their honest feedback is invaluable, shaping her content to be engaging and relevant for her target audience. Their involvement enhances her work and drives her motivation to follow through on projects, reflecting how much she values their suggestions.
The Vision
Ayonnah envisions YaYaStars and STEMix Sports continue providing valuable resources and programs for younger students. She aspires to create more content, write additional books, and undertake initiatives that resonate with kids with diverse interests. Her ultimate dream? To take the stage at an event as grand as the Olympics, shedding light on the engineering marvels behind such events and sharing stories of the engineers and scientists who make these moments possible.
Ayonnah Tinsley is not just a name in the STEAM community but a beacon of hope and inspiration for the next generation. Her work, driven by passion and a deep understanding of the youth's mindset, paves the way for a more inclusive and diverse STEAM future.
