PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Teen dating violence is a topic many parents and kids don’t think about, let alone talk about.
The family of Asia Cowell is sharing her story in hopes to help other teens break the cycle.
Previously: Woman sentenced to life after 2020 killing of Norfolk teen Asia Cowell
“When I’m describing Asia, it’s so much that I feel — it’s hard because I can’t experience it. Any time the opportunity opens to share her, I say ‘yes,’” said her aunt and guardian Tatina Cowell. “Sometimes I hesitate because of my emotions, but I have to honor my niece ’cause … she left a legacy.”
Asia is remembered as a Granby High School student. At 17-years-old, she was an entrepreneur and hairstylist.
“She has such wisdom, kindness and compassion,” Tatina Cowell said. She was just loving. I looked at how she would treat her siblings. She was sweet, she was a protector.”
In 2020, Asia was preparing for her graduation — “she grew into her confidence, she grew into herself [and] she went through a lot even in her younger age, bullying and things like that,” Tatina Cowell said.