Have you heard the saying that “blondes have more fun”? I’m beginning to think it’s true! Especially for my dear friend Gayela Bynum, Founder and Chair of We Will Survive Cancer, who was recently honored as Copa Style Magazine’s 2016 “Woman of the Year.”
Gayela’s story is so inspiring to me, and familiar in many ways. Not only is she a true feminine goddess with class and style, she is very open-minded, a great communicator, and super kind-hearted. She moved to the DC area in the early 1980’s from California, had a long-standing career with the Federal government, loves to host parties and fundraising events, and she even had her own fashion accessories business at one point in the 1990’s. Like me, her mother was her inspiration and role model. That is where she learned how to own her goddessly power and use it to her advantage for the good of others and to serve humanity.
In 2009, Gayela and friends founded We Will Survive Cancer, a nonprofit inspired by the warrior spirit of Michelle Bynum, her daughter in-law who passed away due to breast cancer. The organization assists patients and their families affected by cancer. I’ve written before about this inspiring organization, and I’m proud that we can and have been able to support Gayela’s work.
Even though Gayela has suffered heartbreak and dissapointments over the years, she has never let that take away her warmth, her love, the light that surrounds her, and of course, her bold and sparkling sense of style. I love that she is never afraid to shine. And although she is always polished and perfect, she doesn’t take herself too seriously – see the photos I took in our sanctuary below of Gayela showing off her blonde tresses!
I believe Gayela’s ambition and drive set a great example for young women. I am proud to call her a good friend and fellow goddess fan.
