Annita Bonner

Waynesboro

Annita Bonner, a remarkable individual from Waynesboro, Mississippi, has demonstrated resilience and dedication throughout her life. Despite facing personal challenges, Annita remained undeterred in pursuing education and personal growth. 

Her academic journey includes graduating from Waynesboro County High School, earning an associate degree from Jones County Junior College, obtaining a B.S. in Mass Communications from Jackson State University, and attaining a Master’s in Public Administration from Belhaven University. 

Annita’s perseverance exemplifies her deep commitment to public service and community support. Her leadership roles speak volumes about her dedication, as she served as the President of the Mississippi PTA. She oversaw a wide range of organizational operations in this capacity, managing 44 local units across 82 counties and addressing the needs, concerns and satisfaction of over 5,000 member-constituents. 

Beyond her involvement with the PTA, Annita has displayed boundless compassion and initiative. Notably, during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, she opened her home to critically ill children as a foster parent. She also launched the “Just-Paying Forward” initiative, which focused on distributing computers to families and organizing a safe and enjoyable alternative Halloween event called “Trunk or Treat,” benefiting over 300 participants. Furthermore, Annita’s community-focused approach was evident in establishing a COVID-19 testing site to support the local population during the pandemic. 

In entrepreneurship, Annita demonstrated her forward-thinking mindset by founding Callnista LLC before the official announcement of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Her business allowed individuals to supplement their income, particularly during disrupted traditional work arrangements. Annita’s blend of business acumen and social consciousness has positively impacted her community and beyond. 

Even more significantly, Annita’s journey has encompassed political aspirations, as she has been a candidate for both Justice Court Judge and House of Representative for District 86. Her resilience and drive stem from serving foster care kids and overcoming an abusive marriage that led to seeking refuge with her 3-year-old child in a women’s shelter. 

Despite these trials, Annita’s unwavering determination and refusal to be defined by her circumstances embodies an inspiring tale of triumph over adversity and a commitment to building a brighter future for everyone she may represent as a volunteer, advocate or elected office holder.