Anika was born to Mahtaj M. James and Dr. Robert M. James Jr., and was a sister to Shawheen R. James. She became an accomplished vocalist, poet and performer, but shone brightest while serving and caring for others. A member of the Baha'i Faith, she embraced its teachings, the oneness of mankind, common foundation of all religions, and the equality of women and men. Her faith was strong and she communed with God on a daily basis. Anika was a loving teacher of junior youth, a beacon of guidance to friends, possessed a genuine love for animals, children and hoped to become a pediatrician. She was a recent recipient of the Mayor's award for her volunteer work at the Durham Arts' Council, a regional finalist of the National Association of Teachers of Singers competition, and a recipient of the Superintendent's Award for academic achievement.