In the fast-paced world of finance, where numbers often take precedence, it's a breath of fresh air to encounter someone like Ayesha Selden. She's not just a highly sought-after financial services executive, economic activist, investor and art collector; she's also a passionate advocate for underserved communities and the arts. For this episode of A Black Woman's Podcast, I had the privilege of connecting with Ayesha.
Who is Ayesha Selden?
Ayesha Selden is a financial trailblazer with a heart for communities and the arts. She was born and raised in Philadelphia, where she first got her start in real estate investing within underrepresented areas of the city.
Ayesha's academic background is impressive, with a BBA in Economics and Marketing, and a Certified Financial Planner™ professional designation. These qualifications not only equipped her with the necessary knowledge to excel in the financial services industry, but they’ve also been instrumental in her mission to empower marginalized communities.
She’s an advocate for financial education
One of Ayesha's main passions is financial education. She firmly believes that knowledge is the key to financial empowerment, and her academic background and experience make her a beacon of financial wisdom in communities that lack access to such resources. Especially because she’s also an urban developer who provides quality housing options for low income communities, also fosters positive change and stability in these neighborhoods.
And Ayesha's remarkable work hasn't gone unnoticed. She’s received recognition from distinguished outlets like AfroTech, Black Enterprise, CBS, Entrepreneur Magazine, NBC and NerdWallet. Her contributions in the financial and investment space have not only earned her accolades, but have also highlighted the importance of investing in underserved communities.
She has a heart for philanthropy
Ayesha's dedication extends beyond the realm of finance. She serves on the board of Holy Redeemer Health System's Drueding Center, a transitional housing program that provides support to young mothers. Through her involvement, Ayesha contributes to the betterment of the lives of these mothers, providing them with the support and stability they need during challenging times.
Furthermore, Ayesha is a passionate patron of visual artists from the African diaspora. Her commitment to nurturing creative expression is evident through her efforts in collecting, donating and lending artworks to prestigious institutions like the National Portrait Gallery in Washington D.C., the Spelman College Museum of Fine Art in Atlanta, and the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. And her support for the arts extends to the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, where she currently resides and actively engages as a dedicated member of the prestigious Hammer Circle.
She’s an experience
The way Ayesha’s expertise and compassion intersect is a whole experience, watch her in action to see for yourself:
Ayesha Selden is a shining example of a trailblazer who doesn't just excel in her field but also uses her success to uplift others and promote creativity. Her multifaceted endeavors remind us that success isn't measured solely in financial terms, it's also about the lives we touch and the art we create.
It should be noted, this was Ayesha’s and my first time meeting. It was an honor to have Ayesha as a special guest and to sit with her in her beautiful home. I hope her story continues to inspire positive change and empowerment in the world.
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