Siti Girl New Orleans

Tell us about yourself 

Greetings!

My name is Akaira Cryer-Simmons and I am the founder of MRS X AKFITNESS, LLC, a fitness brand that caters to women. While focusing on the physical aspect is the main goal of a personal trainer, I also incorporate mental, emotional, and spiritual perspectives to assist with building the woman as a WHOLE.

I am a Christian, wife, mother of two little divas, daughter, sister, friend, She-Conqueror, and so much more. I earned a B.S. in Kinesiology at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge and an MBA in Healthcare Administration at Tiffin University to contribute to my education in health and wellness. Also, I am a member of the Illustrious Iota Theta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

I am currently using my God-given talent to walk in my purpose by creating a safe space for women and educating them on the importance of prioritizing overall health!

How did you determine your target audience with your brand?

When developing my brand, I considered my maternal figures! My grandmother and mother are truly inspirational! If “never dropped the ball” were people and “doing it effortlessly” was a look, they EMBODIED it. The truth is, while they were pouring into their families, careers, and other life factors, they were dealing with their own struggles, depleting themselves, and not prioritizing their well-being as often as they should’ve. As an effort to publicly admire them and show my appreciation, I aim to serve women by pouring back into them. Whether their battles are known or unknown, they still show up and show out!

I consider these ladies to be She-Conquerors!

She-Conquerors are identified as women tackling various obstacles sent to destroy their well-being

She-Conquerors are identified as women tackling various obstacles sent to destroy their well-being. She gives herself grace, holds her head up high, and takes pride in knowing that she is consistently showing up for herself to OVERCOME.

Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?

In the next five years, I envision my brand reaching billions of women globally. I am working to expand online with virtual programs that provide tools to improve the health of your everyday busy woman. No matter the lifestyle you possess, my programs will consist of quick workout and meal plan ideas to assist with reaching health goals. Different tips and resources will be available to bring awareness to your emotional, mental, and spiritual health as well. 

Along with the efforts to reach women all over the world, I will have a space in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex (where I currently reside) to reach women locally. It will be a women’s center operated by women for women! The space will be large enough to house a few other women-owned brands to promote self-care and women empowerment. A daycare center will be an addition as well for those women needing to be present in the safe space but do not have a sitter. 

Sister, I got you COVERED!

Akaira

What has been your biggest accomplishment and why?

While transitioning into full entrepreneurship has been a mind-blowing experience and even starting my brand DURING COVID is running a tight race, I would say remaining true to my God-given purpose despite hardships is my biggest accomplishment.

Entrepreneurship is hard! And when you’re serving a purpose that is bigger than yourself, it’s even harder. Dealing with fluctuation in clientele, an economy going downhill, maternity leave, and everyday expenses; were factors that often made me ponder if this was the right path for me financially. BUT GOD! He constantly reminds me that the focal point is not monetary, it is based on helping women to be healthier, confident, and love themselves thoroughly. 

My family nor I lacked in the midst of what appeared to be hardships. As I enter three years of building my brand, the flexibility to be present for my family and the connections that I’ve made with various women over these past three years has been the most rewarding. MRS X AKFITNESS is a lifestyle! 

What message is on your heart to share right now?

Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Simply put: worry LESS and give it to God MORE!

Akaira Simmons

What do you consider your “Superpower” or as we call it, what makes you the ISH?

My superpower is being a MOTHER. That’s all, folks! lol

Seriously, being a mom is an honor and a full-time job. When you are responsible for little people, you are bound to experience five different emotions in less than a one-minute time frame. I have two daughters (5 Y.O. and 9 M.O.), and they are the light in my life alongside their father. Whether I am running my business, not feeling my best, having a million chores to do, etc., I am still a mother 25/8. The job never ends and it’s a blessing to have a hands-on support system that allows me to regroup myself when I am feeling overwhelmed. 

My oldest daughter loves to sing this chant “My mom is Superwoman! Superwoman! Superwoman!” and it’s the most amazing feeling in the world to know that she admires me and my efforts. 

What do you love most about New Orleans?

Of course, our culture is what I love the most about New Orleans. The togetherness that is displayed through the good and unfortunate occasions including holidays, birthday celebrations, social gatherings, and natural disasters is unmatched. I didn’t realize how unique the city was until I was displaced during Hurricane Katrina. I came to Texas as a result of the storm and immediately noticed the difference in my new surroundings. There were no second lines, school dances, or even kids playing IT, jacks, or double-dutch on the block in the afternoons until the street lights came on. 

I was a freshman in high school during the transition, and I can say that the kids from New Orleans stuck together in the new environment. Also, I had no clue that one of my fellow New Orleanians whom I would speak to and see in the hallways of Lamar High School would become my husband later in life! Although both of our daughters were born in Texas, my husband and I vowed to make them aware of their origin. Our oldest daughter visits New Orleans at least three times a year and her middle name is “Roux.” lol The youngest had two trips so far and we are excited to plan our next visit close to Mardi Gras time. 

How can people get in contact with you? What is up next for you?

I would love to connect with any ladies that are wanting to start or continue their health journey, partner with events, or have opportunities to participate in speaking engagements. I can be reached on various platforms:

Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn: @MRSXAKFITNESS

Website: www.mrsxakfitness.com

Email: mrsxakfitness@gmail.com

I offer personal training, group classes, and challenges virtually. Also, I have a self care ebook along with apparel (She Conqueror T-shirt) available on my website. Make sure you subscribe on the site to receive updates on the offerings available to build yourself as a WHOLE! 

It was a pleasure sharing my story with you! Please reach out, so I can have the opportunity to chat with you!

UNTIL NEXT TIME, SHE-CONQUERORS!