The Author’s Corner
A Note from Ariel
Hi, I’m Cheyenne Ariel Páez, affectionately known as Ariel — the voice behind The Speaker’s Circle.
I’m a writer, spoken-word artist, and upcoming author whose words are shaped by faith, resilience, and a deep desire to help others heal. I am also a sexual assault survivor and advocate, using my platform to create space for honest conversations around restoration, identity, and spiritual wholeness.
Every word I write is rooted in redemption. It’s for the girl who once thought her voice didn’t matter, and for the woman who learned it was her weapon all along.
✨ Why I Write
I write to remind people that healing is holy work.
That faith isn’t always loud, but it is steady.
That God can still use the voice you thought you lost.
My upcoming poetry collection, What Color Should I Paint With?, explores what it means to heal through creativity. Using color to explore life’s palette of faith, love, joy heartbreak and more. Like The Speaker’s Circle, it’s an invitation to sit with your story until it transforms into something sacred.
💼 Beyond the Pen
Professionally, I’m a Sales Manager at a Fortune 500 technology company and a certified repair IT technician. Allowing me to bridge creativity with strategy, faith with innovation, and storytelling with tangible impact.
I serve my community as a Board Member for Youth Entrepreneurs and partner with several inclusion and diversity-focused nonprofits that empower marginalized voices to step into leadership and purpose.
I’m a first-generation college graduate with a B.A. in History, Psychology, and Religious Studies, but the lessons that shaped me most came from communion tables, late-night prayers, and the quiet courage it takes to start again.
☕ Little Joys
On a more “get to know me” note, here are some things that I love ❤️
I’ve fallen in love with playing the harp, which I began learning just a year ago. It’s become my favorite form of prayer, a gentle language between me and God that teaches patience, presence, and grace one string at a time.
I also love traveling and uncovering the stories hidden in new places. The Caribbean islands hold a special place in my heart. Each trip reconnects me to my roots and reminds me that heritage is a living, breathing story we carry wherever we go.
I’m drawn to good books, deep laughter, and random fun facts no one asked for (but I promise they’re fascinating). I’ve always believed humor is one of God’s love languages and I will always take a moment to make a joke. And when I’m home, you’ll find me with RZA, my toy poodle and tiny shadow, who keeps me both grounded and giggling.
🤎 Welcome
If you’ve ever wondered whether your story still has power — it does.
And if you’ve ever thought you were too broken to be used — you’re not.
Welcome to the Circle. I’m so glad you’re here.
— Ariel
