Mya was diagnosed with Stage 2A Bulk Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the age of 17, undergoing numerous surgeries and chemotherapies that resulted in the absence of her high school graduation and first year at NYU. Today, Mya dedicates her life to spreading childhood cancer awareness, leading with kindness, and proudly promoting the spirit of what the NYU Student has amongst notable non-profits such as Tom Coughlin Jay Fund, Sunshine kids, and Make-A-Wish foundation. Mya is the founder of her own non-profit “The Brave Place” - The Brave Place is a pre-professional developmental company for young actors with and without disabilities/neurodivergences. Being exposed to multiple nonprofit organizations, Mya dedicates her life to spreading childhood cancer awareness.

The word “Cancer” in itself is a chilling word. Initially, my first thought when I was diagnosed was: “I’m going to have to change my career!”.

Instantly, through this disease - I was not good enough anymore. Despite the 4 years of Vocal and Dance training, I was very quick to make drastic changes as cancer did with my soul and body. My hair fell out, my nails turned black, and the color faded from my skin. I took multiple medications every day and I have lost all color in my soul. It wasn’t until Sunshine Kids, an organization dedicated to children with cancer, spark hope within me.

Through the 2021 Sunshine Kids Staycation in New York City, I saw Wicked and The Lion King. Two musicals I’ve never seen before, two iconic shows that changed my life. We had the opportunity to meet the Cast of The Lion King. I heard their phenomenal stories and related to their struggles of being in a selective field with high demands. After hearing these wonderful actors go through similar experiences, I felt empowered and inspired to chase after my life. Through this new chapter, I dedicated my time to spreading childhood cancer awareness. Whether I would model for wig donation charities, singing, or speaking at events; this experience would forever be a blessing in disguise.