Hello, I'm Aurelia Lyles
Founder & CEO Brown Barn Project
As the Founder and CEO of Brown Barn Project, I am committed to empowering youth through leadership, etiquette, wellness, and life skills development.
My journey has taken me from Wall Street to classrooms, athletic fields, and community organizations. I've taught at KIPP Charter School, instructed students globally through VIPKid, coached youth athletes who earned college scholarships, and created programs designed to help young people build confidence and character.
As a mother and grandmother, I understand the importance of creating opportunities and leaving a legacy for future generations. Brown Barn Project was founded from that belief--that every young person deserves the tools, guidance, and support needed to thrive.
My Story
I grew up in Brooklyn, New York, in the neighborhoods now widely known as a Park Slope and Prospect Heights. As a curious child, I eagerly explored the many free after-school and community programs available to me. Those opportunities opened my eyes to new experience and possibilities that would help shape the course of my life.
My journey began with folk dance and instrumental music, and expanded into track and field while attending a renowned performing arts high school in Brooklyn. Through those experience, I discovered three values that have remained constant throughout my life: curiosity, fitness and hope for a better future.
Education has always been important to me. I earned a MBA in Marketing, a BA in Speech Communication, and an AAS in Corporate Video Production. I have also pursued numerous professional certifications because I believe learning is a lifelong journey.
The opportunities I experience as a young person inspired my commitment to creating opportunities for others. That passion led me to revitalize the Village Mirror Etiquette Program in Delaware and ultimately establish the Brown Barn Project in Georgia.
I know firsthand how exposure to positive programs, mentors, and experiences can chang eth trajectory of a life. My future was filled with possibilities because someone invested in creating opportunities for youth. Through Brown Barn Project, I am committed to ensuring that future generations have access to those same possibilities--along with the confidence, skills, and support needed to pursue them.
As a mother and grandmother, this work is more than a profession; it is part of my legacy.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
215-221-2286
Meet the Team
Here are the voices behind the Brown Barn Project, Inc.
Board Member
Alexandria L. Lyles
A dedicated community advocate, licensed esthetician, and human services professional with a passion for helping individuals achieve their fullest potential. With a background in psychology and years of experience supporting individuals and families through case management and community-based services, Alexandria brings compassion, leadership, and a people-centered approach to every role she serves.
In addition to her work in human services, Alexandria is the founder of Lash & Glow, a beauty and wellness brand focused on empowering clients through self-care, confidence, and education. She is committed to creating positive change by combining her professional expertise with her passion for uplifting others.
As a mother, entrepreneur, and advocate, Alexandria believes in the poser of community, resilience, and opportunity. Through her involvement with the Brown Barn Project, she is excited to support initiatives that fosters growth, connection and meaningful impact for individuals fand families.
Board Member
Marilyn Forward
Marilyn Forward brings more than 20 years of experience in the performing arts youth development, and transformational coaching. A native New Yorker who spent her formative years in Puerto Rico, she earned the title of Miss San Juan Teenager before returning to New York City to build her professional career and family.
A SAG-AFTRA member since 2002, Marilyn has worked in television, voice-over, theatre, and film. She has coached hundreds of modeling and acting students, helping young people develop confidence, communication skills, and professional discipline.
Marilyn is a Reiki Master, Certified Life Coach, founder of Helping Heal Hearts, co-author, inspirational speaker, and co-host of Paradigm Shifters: Principles for Life and Success. Her passion for empowering others aligns with The Brown Barn Project's mission to equip youth with confidence, leadership, and tools for lifelong success.
Board Member
Jacqueline Newman
Jaqueline "Jackie" Newman is a retired public service professional whose career has been dedicated to housing advocacy, community development, and serving vulnerable populaitons. She attended Delaware State College and help positions with the DuPont Company, the FBI, the Wilmington Housing Authority, and the City of Wilmington.
Throughout her career, Jackin managed public housing programs, coordinated Section 8 housing initiatives, and administered millions of dollars in federal housing and community development funding. He work focused on improving housing opportunities, supporting families and collaborating with organizations addressing homelessness and community needs.
A life long volunteer and community advocate, Jackie has served as a Rape Crisis Counselor, church leader, ministry founder, and volunteer manager for a Community Federal Credit Union. Known as an encourager, mentor, listener, and friend, she has devoted her life to helping others thrive.
Jacke is a wife, mother of two, grandmother of four, great-grandmother of two, and a valued member of the Brown Barn Project Board of Directors.