When I was driving to my photo sessions I would continually see this woman running around Maui. I used to wonder how fair she ran as one time I’d see her in Wailuku, another time near Kihie and then in Sprecksville.  I was sitting in a resteraunt one day with my mom having lunch and Layla walked in and my mom leaned in and asked if that was the girl that runs and I leaned back and told her, “yes”. After looking over at Layla several times, I leaned back over and told my mom that I’ve love to take photos of her. Before you know it, my mom is over at her table talking to her and of course gives her my business card. It wasn’t long before Layla called and we go together numerous times over the past several years to do various photo sessions. She’s now become a family friend and has taken my daughter out to teach her how to run.

Who is Layla and what is she all about?  Layla Sheikh and she is a Somalian refugee, human rights activist, author and model.  Layla’s flight on foot, alone, at age 11 through the jungles of Africa. Layla’s survival is itself a miracle.  I’d love it if you can take a moment to  check her website out and make a donation to help her get her kids back that were taken from her illegally.  Layla is a strong and gracious person and I am proud to call her my friend.

www.laylaruns.com