Meet Nilaja Montgomery | Counselor in Training & Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nilaja Montgomery and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nilaja, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
My favorite affirmation is from a college professor of mine, who passed away in 2019 – Dr. James E. Mumford said, “When you live your life in anticipation (of good things), the universe will open itself to you.” I say it often and remember Dr. Mumford’s spirit. He was a very positive influence in my life during my four years at Indiana University. I am still working on finding good in everything and not allowing negativity to direct my thoughts. However, living life in anticipation that things will work out for my good, even in sorrow or hardship, this affirmation keeps me going. And things have always worked out, and life continues to be good.

My favorite quote is from Dr. (Reverand) Martin Luther King, Jr. which states, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” What this means to me is the fight for justice and equity is ongoing and will be forever until all injustices have been eradicated, we have to continue to fight for those who can’t and try for a more equitable society for all.

What should our readers know about your business?
Nilaja Jendayi is my first and middle name. Nilaja means “one who comes with Joy” or “peaceful and friendly” and is of Nigerian/African origin. Jendayi means thankful or “to give thanks” and is of African origin, as well. When I first started Nilaja Jendayi LLC, I already knew I would be speaking and writing books. I didn’t realize that I would be going back to school to become a Licensed Counselor, yet here I am. Once I begin practicing as a clinician, I will open that practice under the same. I am currently studying at Adler University, which is a school for Social Justice and Equity. I am learning to be a socially responsible clinician. I am learning to work towards justice for all. I am proud to be a business owner and clinician. I also assist my husband with his business, which we are revamping today to be a non-profit that helps Colorado Springs with Digital Equity and Accessibility. My husband and my mission is to help Colorado Springs and Colorado be a more inclusive and just city and state. We strive to make anywhere we are better using the skills and talents we currently possess and have picked up along the way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In Colorado Springs, I had a birthday weekend where I was able to invite all of my closest friends and we had a blast. We celebrated my 40th at Hatchover. Hatchcover is where I’ve done Karaoke the most and we love the wings! The next day we did brunch at Mother Muffs then over to Anthem Live for my party that evening. Mother Muffs has amazing drinks and live music on weekends. Anthem Live is a local community and events center that has the best vibes imaginable. Many guests drove through and hiked Garden of the Gods Park. I usually try to get folx to the Summit of Pikes Peak for the views but winter months are hard with all the snow! My favorite restaurant is Jax Seafood in both Springs and Denver. Hamburger Mary’s is one of my favorite brunch spots in Denver. I have to shout out Cuba Cuba and Earls Kitchen + Bar. When my godson comes to visit we have to catch all the sporting events at Coors Field. My son is a soccer fanatic so we find ourselves at the Switchbacks stadium often. My favorite happy hours are at Lumin8 in Colorado Springs, again the views of the city and The Well with their awesome drinks. Birdtree Cafe has the best breakfast and lunch in my opinion. Frankly Coffee is my favorite coffee joint of all time!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shoutout goes to my success entourage. My success entourage consists of my husband, my mom, my sisters, my mentors, and my friends. The best organization out there will always be Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. I am a founder of the Upsilon Chapter at Indiana University. Upsilon Chapter was founded in 2004 and I am still active in Theta Nu Xi today. I am lucky to have sisters all over the world who speak my name in rooms that I can’t reach. I have mentors in various places in this country who check in with me and hold me accountable when I need the push. I have friends and biological sisters and my mom who are my sounding board. My husband is my biggest supporter and has been that for 17 years. I have to shout out to my son, who is constantly pumping me up! He’s my biggest cheerleader because I am his.

Website: www.nilajajendayi.com

Instagram: instagram.co/nilaja.jendayi

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/nmonty

Facebook: facebook.com/nilajajendayi

Image Credits
Larissa Johnson Photography did all the professional photos. I took the rest of those photos with my phone’s camera.