Airport Custodian Uplifts Travelers With Daily Affirmations
An Atlanta custodian is gaining international attention for offering words of encouragement to airport travelers.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Human Interest
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Alencia Edwards, a 22-year-old custodian at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, boosts travelers' spirits by offering positive verbal affirmations. Her practice of telling women they are beautiful and powerful has earned her global recognition.
Why it matters
Edwards's initiative aims to improve women's self-esteem during their travels. The simple act of kindness has resonated with many who pass through the busy Atlanta transit hub.
Alencia Edwards works as a custodian from 1 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily at the airport. She is currently a single mother to a 19-month-old daughter.
The players
Alencia Edwards
She is a 22-year-old airport custodian and single mother residing in Decatur, Georgia.
Tovah Jacobson
She is a 46-year-old who shared a viral photograph of Edwards on social media.
The details
Edwards, a resident of Decatur, Georgia, adopted the habit of offering affirmations after observing a coworker during her initial training with Unifi. Her message of empowerment focuses on reminding women they are capable and strong, which caught the attention of 46-year-old Tovah Jacobson.
Timeline
Edwards works her daily shift from 1 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.
Culture Shift
This story highlights the modern trend of viral social media acts of kindness, where individual actions are amplified to foster global connections. It reflects a shift toward using digital platforms to highlight and support grassroots community efforts.
Travelers passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport may encounter Edwards during her shift. The attention has also led to a GoFundMe campaign that provides an opportunity for the public to offer financial support to the custodian.
The takeaway
Small gestures of verbal encouragement can have a meaningful impact on those passing through stressful environments like airports. Offering genuine affirmations to strangers is a simple practice that anyone can adopt to improve the daily experiences of those around them.
Further reading
Learn more about local stories on the Atlanta Human Interest section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by TODAY.
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