• What does the term, “Boss Lady,” mean to you? What are some characteristics that come to mind when you hear the word, “Boss Lady?

When I hear the term Boss Lady I think of women who have Smarts, Charisma, Looks, and Power. It means a woman in charge, someone who has worked hard to get where they deserve.

• We applaud you for the numerous awards and accomplishments you have achieved thus far, what/who has been your motivation to keep getting better throughout your professional running career?

In the bible there’s a story about Ten Servant, the moral is those who use what they are given well will be given more and those who do not, the little they have will be taken. I have many motivations. One is my gift from god. God didn’t give me this gift so I can be mediocre, I was given it to show the world how wonderful he is, I don’t want to let him down so every day I strive to be better.

• As a child, did you grow up ever thinking you would become a professional runner, who would have the opportunity to run in the Olympics?

I did want to run in the Olympics after seeing 2004 Olympics in Athens, but, as a child I didn’t think I’d ever become a professional runner, I knew I would be someone who would make a change. I always fantasized myself sitting in a chair and telling the world about my story and touching someone heart.

• Being a professional runner, you must sustain a very strict diet during training. How were you able to do so, and what did your daily workouts consist of?

My diet was somewhat strict. I don’t eat fried foods, and I had to let the love of my life McDonalds go. I usually eat baked/grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. It was very hard to stay on the diet and there were times whereI cheated, but I have a note card on my wall that reminds me of my goals, and because of that I’d say no to certain food. Also, sometimes it’s cheaper not to each junk food but stay home and cook. My workouts were always changing very unpredictable. Some days we’d average 600’s other 150’s.

• In the 2012 Olympic games, you were a part of the 4×100 meter gold mentalist team, describe what it means to accomplish such a high honor?

It’s a good feeling knowing that I’ve achieved something this big at 23 years old.

• With such a hectic schedule, how are you able to balance your career and personal?

It’s not easy, but it comes with the territory. You have to prioritize which takes precedence at the time.

• How did you overcome the controversy around the event in which you qualified as dead even tie in your qualifying race for theOlympic team against your training partner?

There is power in prayer, so when this situation grew into something I could not handle I prayed and never stopped. I would also recite certain verses in my head including Psalm 23 and Jeremiah 29:11.

• The million-dollar question….so what is next for a phenom like you who has accomplished so much thus far in your professional career.

Next I would like to accomplish more on and off the track, help my family in Sierra Leone, and inspire young girls to always reach for the stars.

• Any other words of wisdom to the younger female athletes that want to become a professional runner.

Don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do. If you believe that you are destined for greatness let that fuel you to be the best you can be. Another thing is if you don’t stand for something you’ll fall for anything. Don’tbe afraid to take a stance on your beliefs.

• How can the world stay connected with you?

twitter @jenebasylvia is the best. The notifications go straight to my phone and I try to reply to everyone.  

 Endless Possibilities!