Ahead Academy 

Anyea founded Ahead Academy after a painful moment in Corporate America, when she was told no one would hire her for having “Bob Marley-looking hair.” Anyea was wearing braids that day, and it made clear to her how black girls and women are penalized for simply being themselves. That moment became the spark to create a space where black and brown girls are empowered and uplifted through hair. 

Anyea launched Ahead Academy’s first class in 2023 with 16 students in Bronzeville. Since then, Ahead Academy has served more than 300 youth through school programs, camps, and workshops that blend braiding and natural hair care with confidence, leadership, and entrepreneurship skills. 

Anyea, a South Side resident, found it important that Ahead Academy be rooted on the South Side. Ahead Academy partners primarily with South Side schools, and as of May 2025, it opened its first location at Boxville in Bronzeville. 

At its core, Ahead Academy is about building confidence, economic opportunity, and a sense of belonging for South Side youth and families.