The Courageous Leader Who Stepped Up When New York Needed It Most


During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when fear gripped communities and resources were stretched thin, Aleya Siyaj and her Center for COVID Control (CCC) played a crucial role in providing free and accessible testing to areas where it was needed most, including New York. As the world was paralyzed by uncertainty, and many were afraid to leave their homes, Aleya and her team fearlessly stepped into the frontlines, offering a critical service at a time when the country was desperate for solutions.

A Time of Crisis: Testing Scarcity in New York

In early 2021, New York, like much of the nation, faced a severe shortage of COVID-19 testing. Hospitals were overwhelmed, and many testing centers were inaccessible to the general public. New Yorkers, especially in underserved communities, were finding it increasingly difficult to obtain tests, putting their lives, jobs, and families at risk. In this void, Aleya Siyaj saw an opportunity—not for profit, but to serve her community and provide life-saving support.

The Center for COVID Control, under Aleya’s leadership, swiftly responded to the challenge. The CCC set up testing sites across the country, including a location in Rochester, New York, on 1761 Mt Hope Ave, that quickly became a lifeline for those who couldn’t find tests elsewhere. As many hesitated to leave their homes due to the fear of contracting the virus, Aleya and her employees willingly put themselves on the frontlines to ensure that others had access to safe and reliable COVID-19 testing.

Courage in the Face of Uncertainty

Aleya Siyaj’s decision to establish CCC in New York wasn’t just about business—it was an act of courage. During a time when many feared even the thought of leaving their homes, Aleya and her employees risked their own health and safety to provide a necessary public service. For months, CCC’s dedicated staff tested thousands of New Yorkers, standing face-to-face with a virus that much of the world was running from.

As reviews from New York’s Rochester site show, CCC employees provided more than just testing—they offered comfort and reassurance to anxious patients who, in many cases, had nowhere else to turn. Customers praised the professionalism and warmth of the staff, who worked tirelessly under difficult conditions. One review expressed deep gratitude for the “health care angels” who were sacrificing their own safety for the well-being of others, highlighting the extraordinary efforts of CCC’s team during such a challenging time.

These frontline workers were, in many ways, an extension of Aleya’s own vision—people who were dedicated to serving their communities, despite the immense personal risk involved. Aleya’s leadership fostered a sense of responsibility and bravery among her employees, who shared her commitment to helping others, even when it meant risking their own lives and the safety of their families.

The Greater Good: A Service for the Community

Aleya Siyaj understood that providing COVID-19 testing wasn’t just about meeting a demand—it was about saving lives. By offering free testing at a time when many private services were charging high fees, CCC ensured that testing was accessible to everyone, regardless of income or insurance status. In Rochester, the CCC site became a beacon of hope for residents, providing fast, reliable results that allowed them to protect their families and loved ones.

One of the most touching aspects of CCC’s work in New York was the gratitude expressed by the community. Reviewers highlighted how the staff treated each individual with respect and care, working to get everyone tested as quickly as possible despite high demand. Kiyandra Johnson, a customer, noted how the staff remained calm and professional, even in the face of public frustration. Another reviewer, Lori Augustyn, expressed appreciation for the efficiency and kindness of the employees, who managed to serve large numbers of people without compromising safety or quality.

This level of service was a direct reflection of Aleya’s leadership. Her commitment to public health and her understanding of the human element in crises allowed CCC to thrive in one of the most difficult environments imaginable. Aleya didn’t just build a business; she built a service that genuinely cared for the people it served.

Leading with Bravery and Compassion

Aleya Siyaj’s role in the fight against COVID-19 cannot be overstated. While many other business leaders hesitated or sought ways to profit from the crisis, Aleya focused on giving back. She ensured that CCC provided essential services to communities in desperate need, particularly in New York, where testing was scarce. Her bravery, and that of her employees, helped fill a critical gap during the darkest days of the pandemic.

Aleya’s approach to leadership was one of compassion. She knew that serving the community was the highest priority, even when it meant personal sacrifice. For Aleya, it wasn’t just about business—it was about making a tangible difference in people’s lives. By creating jobs, offering free testing, and helping over 3 million Americans across the country get tested for COVID-19, Aleya left an indelible mark on the fight against the pandemic.

A Legacy of Service

Today, Aleya Siyaj continues to inspire through her actions. Her decision to lead from the frontlines, risking her own health to ensure the safety of others, serves as a reminder of the power of courage in times of crisis. The Center for COVID Control may have been born out of necessity, but its impact will be remembered as a beacon of hope during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.

As the world slowly recovers, Aleya’s contributions to public health remain a testament to what can be achieved when leaders prioritize the greater good. In New York, her efforts will not be forgotten by the thousands of people who were able to protect their families, thanks to the bravery of Aleya and her dedicated team.