Our Founder:
Bio for Dena Billups
Founder of Anna Mae Sonflower Seeds

Creating this bio hits differently because it begins my story—a story rooted in love, legacy, and transformation. It takes me back to the side of 1517 Columbus Road, where my grandmother lived. I can still hear her voice, sharing how she and my grandfather met. From their union came 17 children, 67 grandchildren, and 78 great-grandchildren. I am one of them.

Anna Mae Sonflower Seeds is a reflection of the women who came before me. It stems from their love, struggles, mistakes, and lessons—things I wish I had known as a young mother. It’s also a story of finding myself as a single mother, realizing that journey prepared me to be a wife and mother again nearly 24 years later, and embracing the dimensions of my life today as a grandmother. These roles are my greatest gift and my proudest flex.

Anna Mae Sonflower Seeds is my “who,” “what,” and “why.” It’s born of love for myself and my neighbor and guided by the voice of my late grandmother, Anna Mae Greene. Leading this legacy means honoring her daughters—one of whom was my mother—my daughter, and now her daughter, as we each fulfill a purpose greater than ourselves.

At its core, this work is about healing—healing our families and communities—and I believe that healing begins with family.

I am Dena Billups, the founder of Anna Mae Sonflower Seeds, and I wear many hats. I am an Author-Artist, Certified Professional Trainer, Minister, and visionary leader. The mission of Anna Mae Sonflower Seeds is to create safe, creative, and empowering spaces where African American and Latino women can thrive, heal, and break the generational barriers of historical trauma that hold their families and communities back.

My academic achievements include a Master’s in Human Services from Lincoln University. I am also a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF), a Certified John Maxwell Coach, and a Certified Parent Trainer. Additionally, I serve as a consultant and trainer for the NJ Child Welfare Partnership at Rutgers and Stockton University, a mentor for Amen University, and the founder of both ART of Training and Development LLC and the Trauma-Informed Coaching Institute.

When I’m not serving others, my greatest joy is creating memories with my husband, children, and grandchildren. My faith is the core of my inspiration, grounding me in all I do.

Note: This 4th of July, as fireworks light the sky, may we remember: True freedom is when every family feels safe, supported, and seen. Thank you for walking this journey with us.

With love and freedom,

Dena Billups
Founder, Anna Mae Sonflower Seeds

We discovered that mothers continue to require support in various forms. This Christmas, we were proud to provide that support by partnering with a school district that assists children in the Camden County area, as well as supporting children in the local Burlington County. A heartfelt thank you to Carmela for allowing Anna Mae to collaborate with you, and a big shout-out to the wonderful group of ladies from Kingdom Ministries in Berlin! You truly blessed the children this Christmas! It takes all of us working together to foster healing and love in our communities.

“My experience at Anna Mas Sunflower seeds so far they owe me nothing! They have been nothing but good to me and my children. I was able to have a Doula for free and bond with other moms that are going through similar things as me. The experience was hands down amazing I received diapers, wipes, clothes for both my kids, my newborn and my three year-old, & also myself. Also one of the caseworkers in the group advocated for me to get housing through the state. They are wonderful, you can tell they truly care. The mom group I was in really made an impact on my life and showed me that I am seen. I am heard and most of all I am me. The group taught me to also not forget about myself while being a mom. I love Anna Mae’s and I will always give them their flowers💗💐 Thank you.”

- Divinea Banks