Check Out Ashley Finley’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Finley

Hi Ashley, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In December of 2019, I found myself in a position where I felt I lost it all. In a matter of one week, I lost a meaningful relationship, a managerial job, and I had to move back home with my parents. To make matters worse, I came face to face with the realization that after 27 years of living for other peoples’ expectations, I didn’t know who I was or where I was going. My life did not reflect my true being nor a sense of purpose.

One day as I was sitting in my bedroom, taking in the scent of my lavender candle while staring at my lavender colored walls, I noticed myself being filled with an overwhelming sense of peace. I was inspired by the realization that although it felt like my world was in chaos, I was somehow able to experience a feeling of peace. This heightened sense of awareness was new for me, so I started writing all the thoughts that began to flood my mind.

That free flow writing experience brought me back to my natural love of creative writing and journaling. In that moment, immersed in that lavender colored room, I began to wonder, ‘What if everyone could find their peace and spark their creativity during times of stress? What if I could harness this experience and use it for the better good of humanity?’ I wanted everyone to benefit from what I had experienced, and as a result, Aganee was born.

My mentality and sense of self started to change as I became more impassioned and began dreaming bigger than I have ever dreamt before. My mission, Aganee’s mission is to build self-awareness through creativity and intention to help relieve stress and anxiety.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey has been anything but smooth. Struggles and challenges have been constant companions. For me, the biggest challenge, then and even now, has been having confidence in what I want to build and create. I wrestled with whether I truly deserved what I was asking for, what I dreamed of. I battled with how others perceived me when I stood in my truth.

I also struggled with finding where I fit in. It felt as if society had no place for me, as if I existed outside its eyes. But everything shifted when God spoke through a friend, reminding me that maybe I wasn’t meant to fit in. Maybe I was meant to fully embrace who I am, without conforming to society’s narrative.

It is my true identity that has shaped and continues to shape my dream. Staying true to that has carried me this far, and it’s what keeps me moving forward. This same commitment to authenticity is what I strive to instill in others as they build their own self-awareness.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
While some may see me as just a businessperson, I see myself first and foremost as a creative. My brand, Aganee (Uh-gaan-ee), is built on creative expression and the pursuit of truth in discovering one’s real identity. I’m especially passionate about influencing and leaving a lasting impact on college students and those in that age range because, in my opinion, these are the years when self-awareness is most crucial. It’s a time when societal pressures can make us question our creativity, individuality, and sense of self. But it’s also the stage where we begin to uncover our purpose and find deeper meaning in the world. Through products, resources, and workshops, I aim to equip individuals with the confidence and clarity to embrace their authenticity, develop self-awareness, and fully step into their creative power.

I believe that understanding ourselves earlier in life equips us to navigate stress and anxiety more effectively when challenges arise in the future, especially when we tap into our natural creative gifts.

What I am most proud of is the impact that has already been made. We often don’t realize the power of our actions until we take that first step. Everyone craves community—a sense of belonging, regardless of differences. I deeply believe that building a strong sense of identity helps people find where they feel most welcomed and empowered to take up space.

What sets me apart is my dedication to authenticity. No one else is me. No one else thinks exactly like I do. Embracing that truth is my greatest strength, and it’s the unique value I bring to the world.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice is simple: stay true to yourself. Never let anyone confine you to a box. Your journey was uniquely designed for you, and your creation is yours alone. Don’t let the process discourage you from pursuing your vision, because the process itself is shaping you for what’s ahead.

Every twist, every setback, every mountain you face was placed in your path for a reason. It is because you have the strength to overcome it. Always, always bet on yourself! But don’t let ego trick you into following what others claim is “the right way.” This is your art, your journey, your purpose. Own it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://i.am.aganee.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamaganee/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamaganee/