Today we’d like to introduce you to Taia L.C. Reid.
Hi Taia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 2013, I was a graduate student at Old Dominion University, working 20 hours a week and pregnant. I was in a long-term relationship that I thought would last forever. Before my pregnancy, I planned to graduate school, marry a few months later, and move to Florida. I was ambitious, confident, and excited. Remaining faithful and encouraged, I completed my last semester of graduate school, aced my comprehensive final exams, and graduated. I graduated with honors and multiple education certifications in higher education. While in graduate school, I was fortunate enough to have multiple baby showers. I was overwhelmed with so much stuff I could not contain in one apartment. With the rollercoaster of thoughts and emotions, I remember thinking, “I have been so blessed; how can I give other single mothers the same love, wisdom, support, and hope that I have received during my pregnancy?” Sitting on my mother’s couch one weekend, reflecting on my blessings, God planted this idea in my heart. I know it is my opportunity to change lives, just as my “village” has changed mine.
Please talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned. Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Fear, depression, and overthinking held me back for years. I would speak about Zion’s Cradle in small settings but never really shared my heart for it. My mother frequently asked me what I was doing with “Zion’s Cradle.” Reflecting, I believe I wasn’t healed and ready to share my story. Admitting that I was naive, lacked self-forgiveness, and hurt was very hard to do. For years, I also internally lived in a space of fight or flight. I didn’t want to be reminded of anything that reflected a failed relationship or single motherhood. However, I always wanted to inspire and empower youth and women. Through counseling and diving deeper into my faith, I could own my story and eventually be confident in the idea and gift God had given me. I stepped out on faith with this newfound boldness and did something big. I competed in my first pageant. Through competing, I could tell my story of how Zion’s Cradle came about and make connections with people who were genuinely interested in what Zion’s Cradle could be and how special it was to me. Since 2021, I have served mothers and their children in many ways.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Outside of Zion’s Cradle, I am a mother, mentor, educator, coach, missionary, and board member. I am the Academic Counselor and Program Coordinator for a federal program. I have worked in higher education for over a decade. I also serve as a board member for the Hampton Roads Youth Sports Association and Messiah Apostolic Faith Church. Additionally, I have mentored over 100 pre-college and college students and served as a competitive cheer and tumbling coach. In my downtime, I enjoy traveling and working out. My son Zion brings me the most joy. I attribute my success, motivation, and constant pursuit of excellence to change the community to him.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I am the eldest child and the oldest grandchild of great-grandchildren of my family. I am a military child and have been blessed to see the world. Growing up, I was very social and helpful. I also was a gymnast for most of my childhood. I enjoyed being outside and helping my mother in the garden. In school, I frequently received citizenship awards. My parents taught me to give, lead, and serve. Those attributes have stayed with me to date.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zionscradle.wixsite.com/zionscradle
- Instagram: _zionscradle
Image Credits
All images are owned by Taia L.C. Reid
