Aya's illiterate grandfather and nearly-illiterate grandmother conspired to teach her to read and write by age six, and succeeded with the help of a Carnegie librarian. Since then writing has been Aya's all-consuming passion. "Words give us wings to soar; and, opens new worlds to us.” Aya is passionate about changing the image of women in the media. "It is time for women to read about strong women, remarkable women who positively impact their worlds; who are heroes and rescuers; doers and dreamers."

Beyond The Silence - 2017 Golden Crown Literary Society Dramatic/General Fiction Finalist

Good Intentions - 2002 Alice B Readers Appreciation Award for Excellence