Pandemic Perseverance - Coach Iya

Meet one of our entrepreneurs who is persevering despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

IyaSokoya Karade

Athletic Arts Academy

The world that IyaSokoya Karade knew was completely devastated when COVID-19 hit. An executive order from the government deemed her business, Athletic Arts Academy, Orange, NJ, as a non-essential business. While her existing licensed summer camp expedited the re-opening process, concerns about future shutdowns forced Karade to find additional ways to protect the academy while also helping families in her community. “Even though building this business from the ground up has taken a toll on me, fighting my way back from COVID-19 has made me focus and become more determined,” she stated.