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VBD Magazine – April 2026

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VICTORIOUS

• EDITING

• PUBLISHING

• BOOK PROMOTION

• AUTHOR COACHING

• WRITING COURSES

• WRITING SEMINARS

• WRITING WORKSHOPS

• WRITING CONFERENCES

DESIGN

Victorious By Design (VBD) Magazine is a leading quarterly lifestyle, business, and literary publication for personal, professional, and organizational transformation, growth, and success. Our magazine provides game-changing brand visibility, while delivering practical advice, actionable strategies, teachable moments, inspiring narratives, and tools that integrate faith with various aspects of life, business, and literature.

We feature inspirational authors, business leaders, ministry leaders, purpose-driven influencers, industry experts, and other phenomenal individuals who are eager to share their insights with you. We created VBD Magazine just for you. Each issue highlights the incredible achievements of individuals who have harnessed their God-given talents and are using their expertise to positively impact lives. Our goal is to inspire you to reach beyond your fears and walk in your purpose so that you can live victoriously. We are your go-to empowerment oasis, and we are excited to be a part of your growth and success.

VBD Magazine is a publication of Victorious By Design (VBD), LLC. The content is published in good faith. The views expressed in the articles, editorials, and all other content, reflect the author’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or publisher. VBD does not endorse any organizations, programs, websites listed, advertisers, or the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers in this magazine.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Ann Marie Bryan

MANAGING EDITOR

Paula Hamilton

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Beverlyn Johnson

FEATURES EDITOR

Icylin Morgan

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Dr. Henritta Stewart

SNR. FEATURE WRITER

Bindu A. Chowritmootoo

Dr. Jacquiline Cox

Dr. Ruby Evans

Mark C. Jennings

Luwam Beyin

FEATURE WRITERS

W. Mason Dunn

Sardia J. Jennings

Kay Johnson-Clennon

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ramona Powell Dennis

Pastor Danyelle Scroggins

FRONT COVER DESIGN

Brittany Rockwell

COVER PHOTO

Jill Johnson

FROM THE DESK of Ann Marie Bryan

Whole, Healed, and Aligned

This issue of VBD Magazine invites you to pause and consider what it truly means to live well. Health and wellness are often reduced to routines, diet plans, and physical goals. But true wellness reaches far beyond the surface. It is reflected in how we care for our minds, how we guard our peace, how we nurture our faith, and how we show up for ourselves with intention, even in demanding seasons.

We are honored to present a powerful lineup of voices who are shaping conversations around health, healing, and wholeness. Our cover story turns the spotlight on Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams, a seasoned healthcare executive and former Deputy Surgeon General and Acting Surgeon General of the United States. Her leadership and influence continue to make a lasting impact, particularly in advancing health systems that prioritize people.

You will encounter the insightful perspectives of Dr. Kami Strong, whose work in rehabilitation medicine highlights the importance of restoring not only physical strength, but dignity and independence. We also feature Dr. Kijana Nix, a board-certified pediatrician and newborn hospitalist, whose practice reflects a commitment to guiding children and families with clinical excellence and compassion. You will also read about Dr. Pamela Egbe-Messy, fashion designer, veteran journalist, and humanitarian, whose journey reminds us that healing is not limited to the physical body, but extends into identity, confidence, and personal restoration.

As you move through these pages, I encourage you to reflect on your own journey. Where are you being called to slow down? What areas of your life require greater care and attention? And perhaps most importantly, are you giving yourself permission to be well?

At VBD Magazine, our mission is to guide you toward your next level of unprecedented success. But success must include a life that is whole, balanced, and aligned with purpose. Let this issue serve as a reminder that your wellbeing matters.

Stay safe, stay connected, and as always, stay victorious. Enjoy this issue.

Ann Marie Bryan

St. Monica’s Children’s Home

ISSUE 22/2026

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Meet Our

Click/tap on the card to visit the writer's respective website or social media page.

DANYELLE

SCROGGINS

Author & Senior Pastor of New Vessels Ministries

Danyelle Scroggins is the senior pastor of New Vessels Ministries North in Shreveport, Louisiana, and chaplain at Ochsner LSU Health Center, Louisiana’s trauma one health center. She owns Divinely Sown Publishing LLC, a company that specializes in the publication of books divinely sown into the hearts of writers. Danyelle is the author of both Christian fiction and non-fiction books.

LUWAM BEYIN

Feature Writer & IT Professional

Luwam Beyin is a passionate and spiritually grounded writer who finds peace in journaling and short story writing. She is deeply interested in human experiences, culture, and personal growth. Alongside her technical work, she supports vulnerable individuals as a personal support worker and volunteers in education. Writing is where she reflects, connects, and gives meaning to everyday life. She joins the team as a Feature Writer for VBD Magazine.

DR. JACQUILINE COX

Bestselling Author & Literary Coach

Dr. Jacquiline Cox is a bestselling author, publisher, and founder of Listen Linda Publishing. As Mrs. Illinois USA Ambassador, she uses her voice to empower others through faith, storytelling, and resilience. As a contributing writer for VBD Magazine, she brings her signature blend of bold encouragement, literary excellence, and faith-forward inspiration to every article.

RAMONA POWELL DENNIS

Author, Teacher & Inspirational Speaker

Ramona Powell is an author, teacher, and inspirational speaker. She has used her upbringing in a Christian home to help channel her love for Christ and her desire to be an inspiration to all. "Sometimes we go through things to strengthen our faith and to be a testament to others." She loves sharing her life experiences to show that no matter what life throws at you, you can overcome and prevail.

BINDU A. CHOWRITMOOTOO

Senior Feature Writer & Author

Bindu Chowritmootoo is a leadership and business coach with over 25 years in healthcare and the founder of Manifest with Bindu. She has partnered with 200+ companies to empower growth and excellence, while also raising funds for children’s education through Bloom India. A Certified Professional Coach, she has been featured in Frisco City Lifestyle and honored with Female Entrepreneur of the Month and 50 Under 50.

W. MASON DUNN

Feature Writer, Author, & Writing Consultant

Waletta Mason Dunn is an author, publisher, and writing consultant. She is the author of five Christian fiction novels and several journals. The breadth of her personal and professional experiences has contributed enormously to her fascinatingly inspirational writings. Waletta uses wisdom gained in the trenches as the foundation for her writing and consulting ministry. As a Feature Writer for VBD Magazine, she is committed to inspiring readers while strategically aligning her content with the magazine’s growth and impact objectives.

DR. RUBY EVANS

Senior Feature Writer & Educator

Dr. Ruby Evans, a visionary educational leader, holds degrees in Mathematics from Grambling State University, Applied Statistics from Louisiana State University, and a doctorate in Higher Education Administration with a minor in Theoretical Statistics from the University of Florida. A dedicated professor, statistical consultant, and philanthropist, Dr. Evans is also an avid reader with a passion for the written word.

SARDIA J. JENNINGS

Feature Writer & Healthcare IT Professional

Sardia J. Jennings is a former cardiac nurse turned healthcare IT professional. She holds a degree in nursing from Auburn University. Her love for writing is matched by her passion for purpose. As a Feature Writer for VBD Magazine, she fuses her expertise in health and technology with her love for writing and faith.

MARK C. JENNINGS

Senior Feature Writer & Attorney

Mark Claude Jennings, Esq. is a distinguished attorney, communicator, and purpose-driven storyteller. With a deep commitment to faith, justice, and community impact, he brings a unique blend of legal expertise and narrative excellence to VBD Magazine. As a Senior Feature Writer, Mark is dedicated to uncovering stories that inspire, empower, and reflect the heart of transformational leadership and service.

KAY JOHNSON-CLENNON

Feature Writer, Author & Actuary

Kay Johnson-Clennon is a multifaceted professional, juggling roles as a devoted wife, mother, author, educator, and associate actuary with over 15 years of experience. Her passion lies in demystifying intricate calculations, which is reflected in her compelling writing style. She finds joy in blogging, volunteering, and sharing her wisdom, embodying a spirit of curiosity and boundless energy. In her role as a Feature Writer for VBD Magazine, Kay aims to inspire readers and contribute to the company’s mission of excellence.

VICTORIOUS BY DESIGN Paradise PIONEERS'

Dr. Pamela Egbe-Messy

A LEGACY OF PURPOSE, POWER, AND ELEGANCE

Dr. Pamela Egbe-Messy’s journey was not built on a single decision, but on a series of moments that required her to pause, rebuild, and choose purpose with intention. What defines her today is not the number of roles she holds, but the clarity with which she has learned to realign and rise, even in seasons that demanded everything of her.

Her work reflects that same depth. It spans industries, crosses borders, and carries a presence that cannot be reduced to titles alone. Fashion designer. Veteran journalist. Humanitarian. Senior Scrum Master. Each role represents a dimension of her journey, but none fully defines it. What remains constant is her ability to lead with purpose, create with intention, and move forward with conviction.

In an exclusive interview with VBD Magazine, Dr. Egbe-Messy offers a thoughtful and revealing look into the experiences that shaped her path, the principles that guide her work, and the vision that continues to move her forward.

ROOTED IN STRENGTH AND CULTURE

Dr. Egbe-Messy’s journey began in Yaoundé, Cameroon, in an environment where identity was shaped long before it was ever expressed. It was a home defined by culture, creativity, and deeply held values, where the lessons of life were not taught through instruction alone, but lived out daily. “I grew up in a home shaped by culture, creativity, and strong values,” she recalls.

That environment was both nurturing and formative. It cultivated awareness, discipline, and a quiet confidence that would later become evident in every space she entered. Dr. Egbe-Messy learned how to observe, how to listen, and how to carry

MY MOTHER INTRODUCED ME EARLY TO SEWING, FROM HAND-STITCHED DETAILS TO HANDLING A SEWING MACHINE.

herself with intention. Creativity was not treated as a separate pursuit. It was woven into everyday life, present in the smallest details and expressed without the need for recognition.

“My mother introduced me early to sewing, from hand-stitched details to handling a sewing machine,” she says.

Those early experiences were building blocks, shaping her appreciation for craftsmanship, expression, and the power of creating something meaningful with her hands. Yet beyond creativity, it was the women in her life who left the most lasting impression. “I was also raised among strong women who led with quiet strength and protected both family and community.”

Their influence modeled resilience without spectacle, leadership without noise, and strength without the need for validation.

A VOICE FORGED IN JOURNALISM

Before fashion became her platform, Pamela’s voice was shaped in the de -

manding world of journalism, where discipline and composure were required. “My work with CRTV shaped my voice,” she explains.

Her work with CRTV placed her in environments that tested her skill and presence. She moved from presenting to reporting, covering sports, politics, and investigative stories, each assignment requiring a different level of awareness, adaptability, and control. Journalism refined her ability to communicate and shaped how she thinks, how she processes information, and how she engages with the world around her. “Journalism taught me how to listen, how to observe, and how to speak with intention,” she states.

In high-pressure environments, where clarity mattered and decisions had to be made quickly, she developed a presence that extended beyond the newsroom. It was a presence marked by confidence, restraint, and purpose. One that would later influence how she leads, how she creates, and how she shows up in every space she enters.

WHEN PURPOSE EMERGES THROUGH ADVERSITY

Fashion had always been part of Dr. Egbe-Messy’s life, but it was not always her path. It existed quietly, present but not pursued, shaped by early exposure yet set aside in favor of more conventional expectations. “Fashion was never a sudden decision. It was always present, but not initially encouraged as a career path,” she says.

The shift came through deeply personal seasons that would reshape the direction of her life. “I am a domestic violence overcomer and a breast cancer survivor,” she shares. “Those seasons of my life reshaped everything.”

Those experiences did more than interrupt her life. They required reflection, forced difficult decisions, and ultimately changed how she saw herself and her purpose. “It forced me to rebuild, not just outwardly, but from within.”

That process of rebuilding changed her relationship with fashion. What once existed quietly in the background was no longer an interest waiting to be explored. It became a means of expression, a way to translate identity, strength, and personal transformation into something visible. Her work began to carry deeper meaning, moving beyond design into restoration. Through Labella Pamela Creations, Dr.

Egbe-Messy creates garments that communicate identity in a way that allows women to see themselves differently.

“Fashion is an expression of identity. It is not simply what a woman wears, but how she shows up in the world,” she says.

Dr. Egbe-Messy’s perspective on elegance challenges common assumptions, shifting it away from surface-level interpretation and grounding it in something far more substantial. “Elegance is often misunderstood as softness, but I see it as strength; quiet, assured, and deeply rooted. When a woman feels aligned with who she is, her presence speaks before she does.”

CULTURE AND PURPOSE IN DESIGN

Dr. Egbe-Messy’s heritage remains central to her work, shaping not only what she creates, but how she creates it. “My heritage is at the heart of my creative expression,” she says. Her designs reflect a thoughtful

ELEGANCE

IS OFTEN MISUNDERSTOOD AS SOFTNESS, BUT I SEE IT AS STRENGTH; QUIET, ASSURED, AND DEEPLY ROOTED. WHEN A WOMAN FEELS ALIGNED WITH WHO SHE IS, HER PRESENCE SPEAKS BEFORE SHE DOES.

balance between tradition and modernity, blending African influences with a global perspective in a way that feels both intentional and timeless. Each collection is a conversation, one that bridges generations, cultures, and experiences.

“It is a dialogue between where I come from and where I am going,” she explains. Through this dialogue, her work connects cultures while preserving identity, allowing each piece to carry both history and evolution at the same time.

HEALING THROUGH DESIGN

“Giving back is not optional, it is a responsibility tied to my journey,” says Dr. Egbe-Messy.

Her commitment to humanitarian work is rooted in personal experience, shaped by seasons that required strength, reflection, and a redefinition of purpose. As a breast cancer survivor and a domestic violence overcomer, her understanding of impact has been transformed by what she has lived.

“Fashion became more than design. It became a platform for healing, empowerment, and restoration.”

Through that lens, her work is both creative and intentional. She supports women by providing resources, offering guidance, and forming partnerships with

organizations such as the Imani Domestic Violence Support Foundation and the African Women’s Cancer Awareness Association. These efforts are focused on creating real opportunities for women to rebuild their lives with dignity and direction.

AWARDS AND GLOBAL RECOGNITION

Dr. Egbe-Messy’s work has earned recognition across both national and international platforms, reflecting her commitment to service, leadership, and community impact.

l Citation from Senator Chris Van Hollen (2025) – Recognized during National African Immigrant Heritage Month for resilience, leadership, and service to marginalized communities

l Certificate of Appreciation, Comptroller of Maryland (2025) – Honored as a Featured Montgomery County Business

l Fannie Lou Hamer Courage in Action Award (2024) – Recognized for sharing her breast cancer journey to uplift and inspire others

l President’s Lifetime Achievement Award (2023) – Honoring lifelong

commitment to volunteer service

l President’s Volunteer Service Award – Gold Medal (2023) – Recognizing exceptional volunteer impact and community service

l WHOPE Humanitarian Recognition Award (2023) – Awarded for contributions to human development and community empowerment

l Doctor of Humanitarian Practice (Honoris Causa) (2023) – Conferred by the Regnum International School of Chaplaincy

l Member, International Association of Chaplains (U.S.A.) (2023)

l Global Goodwill Ambassadors Foundation Founder’s Award (2023) – For supporting sanitary pad campaigns benefiting girls in underserved African communities

l Governor’s Citation, State of Maryland (2022) – Recognized for outstanding service and integrity

l Best Cameroonian Designer in the USA Award (2020) – For promoting Cameroonian fashion globally

l Africa in Miniature Transformational Leader Award (2020) – For leadership, mentorship, and community impact

MENTORSHIP THAT BUILDS CHARACTER

As a Pageant Matron for Miss Africa USA, Dr. Egbe-Messy approaches mentorship with a deep sense of responsibility. “Mentorship means presence,” she says. “Being there in those quiet moments, offstage, where the real growth happens.”

It is in those unseen moments that she does her most important work, guiding young women through pressure, uncertainty, and self-doubt. Her focus is not on performance, but on development. She creates a space for them to grow with honesty, discipline, and self-awareness, while reinforcing values that will sustain them beyond any stage or title. “Who they become matters more than any title,” she says.

Dr. Egbe-Messy places strong emphasis on humility, respect, discipline, and sisterhood, qualities she believes form the foundation of lasting confidence. In her experience, one of the greatest challenges young women face is the pressure to appear confident rather than to develop it from within.

I WAS ALSO RAISED AMONG STRONG WOMEN WHO LED WITH QUIET STRENGTH AND PROTECTED BOTH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY.

Her commitment has not gone unnoticed. Being recognized by the African Women’s Royal Squad was a meaningful moment, not for the title itself, but for what it represents. To be called a “Queen Mother” reflects a deeper responsibility, to guide, uplift, and serve.

BALANCE, DISCIPLINE, AND FAITH

For Dr. Egbe-Messy, balance is cultivated through discipline, clarity, and a deep understanding of purpose. Her work across corporate, creative, and humanitarian spaces reflects a level of intentionality that allows each area of her life to strengthen the other.

The corporate environment has sharpened her ability to think strategically, communicate effectively, and lead with clarity. At the same time, her creative work keeps her grounded, allowing her to remain connected to purpose and expression. These roles do not compete. They complement one another, creating both balance and depth in how she leads and builds.

“I had to confront the gap between the brand I envisioned and the reality I was operating in,” she shares. What followed was not immediate expansion, but a necessary pause. In that moment of stillness, she reassessed, refined her approach, and realigned with her purpose.

“I learned that true leadership is not about constant movement, but about knowing when to step back, listen, and move forward with intention.”

That perspective continues to guide her work. Inspiration, she explains, comes from many places, travel, culture, nature, and the everyday lives of women and families. She pays attention to detail, recognizing that meaning is often found in what others overlook. Yet she is clear that inspiration alone is not enough. It is discipline that transforms vision into reality, and consistency that sustains excellence over time.

At the center of it all is her faith. “Faith has been my anchor throughout my journey,” she says. It grounds her in humility and reminds her that her work is not solely about personal success, but about service. As a Certified Chaplain and Marriage Minister, she leads with compassion and integrity, guided by the belief that even the most difficult experiences can be transformed into purpose. Faith shapes how she serves, how she leads, and how she empowers others to rediscover their strength.

A LEGACY IN MOTION

The future of Labella Pamela Creations is centered on growth and impact, guided by a vision that extends beyond design.

Dr. Egbe-Messy is intentional about building a brand that reflects timeless elegance while honoring heritage and embracing modern refinement.

I LEARNED THAT TRUE LEADERSHIP IS NOT ABOUT CONSTANT MOVEMENT, BUT ABOUT KNOWING WHEN TO STEP BACK, LISTEN, AND MOVE FORWARD WITH INTENTION.

She is committed to growing globally while deepening her investment in empowerment, creating more opportunities for women, particularly survivors, to access mentorship, resources, and pathways to independence. “The goal is to build a brand that not only represents beauty but also creates lasting transformation.”

For Dr. Egbe-Messy, that transformation is the true measure of success. It is reflected in lives restored, confidence rebuilt, and opportunities created for those who are ready to rise. It is also the foundation of the message she carries for those who are building their own paths, a message shaped by experience, refined through discipline, and grounded in purpose.

“Believe in your value, remain disciplined, and be patient with your journey,” she says.

In every space she occupies, Dr. Egbe-Messy leads with a quiet strength that continues to create opportunities for others. She is not only creating fashion. She is creating pathways for women to rise.

VICTORIOUS BY DESIGN Spotlight IN THE

Dr. Kami Strong

RESTORING LIVES THROUGH REHABILITATION MEDICINE

Alife can change in a moment. One diagnosis. One accident. One unexpected turn that alters the rhythm of everyday living. For patients facing the aftermath of a stroke, spinal cord injury, or traumatic physical setback, the path forward can feel uncertain and overwhelming. The questions come quickly: Will I walk again? Will life ever feel normal? Who will help guide me back to independence?

In those defining moments, the right physician can make all the difference. Medical expertise matters, but so do reassurance, clarity, and the confidence that recovery is possible. For many patients, that guiding presence is Dr. Kami Strong, a distinguished physician in rehabilitation medicine whose work focuses on helping individuals regain mobility, rebuild confidence, and reclaim their lives.

A board-certified physician specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine, Dr. Strong has built a career devoted to restoring function and improving quality of life for patients navigating some of their most difficult physical challenges. Her work combines advanced medical knowledge with a deep commitment to patient-centered care.

In her interview with VBD Magazine, Dr. Strong reflects on the experiences that shaped her journey into medicine, the mentors who influenced her path, and the passion that continues to guide her work today.

ROOTED IN PURPOSE

Dr. Strong grew up in the Village of Glenwood, Illinois, just outside Chicago. As the youngest of three children and the only daughter, she grew up surrounded by the encouragement of family, particularly her mother, a pediatric nurse who worked at the University of Chicago for more than three decades.

I JUST REMEMBER HEARING PEOPLE SAY HOW SMART MY MOTHER WAS AND HOW MUCH THEY RESPECTED HER.

Photos Courtesy of Dr. Kami Strong

THESE TECHNOLOGIES

ALLOW PATIENTS TO PRACTICE MOVEMENT

SAFELY WHILE THEIR BODIES

RELEARN HOW TO RESPOND.

From an early age, Dr. Strong observed her mother’s dedication to caring for others. She witnessed firsthand how compassion and intelligence could transform lives. Nurses and colleagues often praised her mother’s skill and professionalism, leaving a lasting impression on the young girl who would eventually follow a similar path.

“I just remember hearing people say how smart my mother was and how much they respected her,” Dr. Strong recalls. “She encouraged me to study, work hard, and pursue medicine.”

Her mother’s influence planted the seed of ambition. What began as admiration soon became a calling.

AN ATHLETE WITH A DREAM

Dr. Strong’s path to medicine was not a straight line. After graduating from Bloom High School in Chicago Heights, Illinois, she attended George Mason University on a Division I athletic scholarship, playing volleyball while pursuing a rigorous science curriculum. Balancing competitive athletics with the demands of a pre-medical program was challenging, but the discipline she developed as an athlete would later serve her well in medicine.

Throughout her undergraduate years, Dr. Strong remained committed to her goal of becoming a physician. Yet the defining moment that moved her dream closer to reality came during a routine visit to Dr. Anita Blanchard, her OB-GYN at the University of Chicago Hospitals.

During their conversation, Dr. Blanchard asked about her academic goals and Dr. Strong shared that she hoped to attend the University of Chicago Medical School. At the same time, she admitted that she was not certain she would ever be accepted into such a prestigious program.

Dr. Blanchard immediately challenged that assumption.

“What makes you think you couldn’t be one of us?” she asked.

The question was simple, but it carried weight. It forced Dr. Strong to reconsider the limits she had quietly placed on herself.

Dr. Blanchard’s encouragement soon opened the door to another influential mentor, Dr. William McDade, a respected physician and leader at the University of Chicago. Through their guidance and support, Dr. Strong was introduced to a community of physicians who saw her potential and encouraged her to pursue it with confidence.

Their belief in her ability helped transform a distant aspiration into a tangible goal. Not long afterward, Dr. Strong was accepted into the University of Chicago Medical School, a milestone that affirmed

both her academic strength and her determination to pursue medicine.

Looking back, Dr. Strong sees those encounters as more than coincidence. “I really feel like the Lord had a hand on my path. I don’t think I realized it then, but I look back on things now, and I see divine intervention throughout my life,” she says.

DISCOVERING A CALLING IN REHABILITATION

At first, Dr. Strong believed she would pursue orthopedic surgery. Her love of sports and musculoskeletal medicine made the specialty an obvious choice. Yet as she progressed through medical school, she began to think more carefully about the lifestyle demands of surgery and how they might affect her future family life.

During that period of reflection, Dr. Strong participated in a summer research

program with renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Raphael Lee at the University of Chicago. Observing Dr. Lee’s demanding schedule gave her greater insight into the lifestyle required of surgeons.

“I told Dr. Lee, ‘I love sports, and that’s why I thought orthopedic surgery was for me,’” she recalls. “But surgeons work really hard and spend a lot of time outside the home. I would like to be a wife and a mother and not just a physician, and I’m not sure if surgery is for me.”

Dr. Lee listened carefully and offered a suggestion that would ultimately change the course of her career. “He said, ‘I know someone who can help. Dr. Mary Lawler is a rehabilitation physician. Why don’t you spend some time with her and see if you like it?’”

Following his advice, Dr. Strong began working with Dr. Lawler at the University of Chicago, which is affiliated with Schwab Rehabilitation Hospital. Her work centered on caring for patients recovering from life-altering injuries and serious medical conditions. After observing her practice, Dr. Lawler encouraged Dr. Strong to deepen the experience by spending time at Schwab

Rehabilitation Hospital itself. There, Dr. Strong met Dr. Michelle Gitler, an expert in the medical management of spinal cord injuries and paralysis whose work would leave a lasting impression on her career.

Dr. Gitler’s clinic introduced Dr. Strong to a patient population she had never encountered before. Many of the patients were young men whose lives had been permanently altered by gunshot wounds that left them paralyzed. They were facing not only physical limitations but also the emotional weight of rebuilding their lives after devastating trauma.

What struck Dr. Strong most was the way Dr. Gitler cared for them. She treated every patient with patience, dignity, and genuine concern. She listened carefully and spoke to them with honesty and respect. In many ways she became far more than their physician. She was their advocate, teacher, and often their source of encouragement as they learned how to navigate life after spinal cord injury.

WE WORK WITH PATIENTS ON THE THINGS PEOPLE OFTEN TAKE FOR GRANTED.

Watching those interactions changed Dr. Strong’s perspective on medicine. “I saw how she cared for them as if they were her own children,” Dr. Strong recalls. “During those moments, I knew I wanted to be like her. Dr. Gitler is probably one of the smartest human beings I have ever met.”

That experience reshaped her path.

What had once seemed like an alternative specialty suddenly felt deeply meaningful. Dr. Strong realized that rehabilitation medicine allowed her to do something powerful: help people rebuild their lives after devastating injury.

TRAINING FOR A LIFE OF SERVICE

After completing medical school, Dr. Strong pursued a general medicine internship followed by a three-year residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Schwab Rehabilitation Hospital. There, she had the extraordinary opportunity to train directly under Dr. Gitler, further refining her expertise in treating complex neurological injuries.

Determined to expand her knowledge, Dr. Strong later completed a Sports Medicine Fellowship at the University of Illinois Chicago, integrating her athletic back-

ground with her growing expertise in rehabilitation. The combination of disciplines allows her to treat a wide range of patients, from athletes recovering from injury to individuals rebuilding their lives after life-altering medical events.

Rehabilitation medicine is often misunderstood. According to Dr. Strong, the work is far broader and far more personal.

“We take care of patients who have had strokes, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, and major surgeries,” she explains. “Our goal is to help them regain as much independence as possible.”

For many patients, recovery begins with relearning tasks that once felt effortless.

“We work with patients on the things people often take for granted,” Dr. Strong says. “Getting dressed, bathing, preparing meals, or moving safely around their homes. Those daily activities matter because they allow people to live with dignity.”

Rehabilitation physicians oversee the entire recovery process while working closely with a multidisciplinary team that includes physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and nurses. Together they help patients rebuild strength, confidence, and independence.

Sometimes the solutions are surprisingly simple. “A weighted utensil might help a patient with Parkinson’s disease eat independently,” Dr. Strong states.

“Adaptive equipment in the bathroom can allow someone recovering from surgery to bathe safely at home. Our job is to keep patients as independent as possible.”

One of the most important lessons Dr. Strong has learned throughout her career is the value of listening. “Patients are more than diagnoses or medical charts,” she says. “Each individual carries a life story, family responsibilities, and personal dreams that existed long before illness or injury changed their circumstances.”

By seeing the person behind the diagnosis, physicians can offer care that restores both physical health and emotional hope.

TECHNOLOGY AND THE FUTURE OF REHABILITATION

Advances in medical technology are steadily changing the way rehabilitation medicine is practiced. For physicians like Dr. Strong, these innovations are creating new possibilities for patients recovering from serious injury or illness.

One area where progress is especially visible is in stroke rehabilitation. Specialized treadmills equipped with virtual reality systems now allow patients to practice walking in controlled environments that simulate real-life movement. Ceiling-mounted harness systems support patients while they regain strength, balance, and confidence.

TECHNOLOGY, WHEN USED THOUGHTFULLY, HAS THE POTENTIAL TO BRING CRITICAL CARE WITHIN REACH.

“These technologies allow patients to practice movement safely while their bodies relearn how to respond,” Dr. Strong asserts. “It gives them an opportunity to build strength and coordination in ways that were not possible years ago.”

Wearable health devices are also beginning to play a larger role in patient care. Some technologies can detect irregular heart rhythms or other warning signs that may signal an increased risk of stroke. Early detection allows physicians to intervene sooner and potentially prevent more serious complications.

Dr. Strong believes these advancements are part of a broader shift in healthcare toward prevention and earlier intervention. Telemedicine has also expanded the reach of medical care, allowing physicians to monitor patients and provide guidance even when distance makes in-person visits difficult.

“For patients who live in underserved communities or areas with limited access to specialists, these developments can be particularly significant,” Dr. Strong states. “Technology, when used thoughtfully, has the potential to bring critical care within reach of people who might otherwise go without it.”

STRENGTH THROUGH FAITH

While medicine defines Dr. Strong’s professional life, faith anchors her personal journey. Raised in a household where church was a regular part of life, she credits her spiritual foundation for guiding her through life’s challenges. That faith became particularly significant following the illness and passing of her mother, a loss that deeply affected her family.

“There’s nothing like losing your mother,” Dr. Strong reflects. “She was everything.”

Through grief, her faith became a source of strength, helping her navigate both personal loss and the emotional weight of caring for patients facing life-altering circumstances.

Her spiritual perspective also influenc-

es how she interacts with patients and families. In moments of uncertainty, she encourages individuals to take things one day at a time and find strength in faith.

EXPANDING THE VISION

Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Dr. Strong has emerged as a respected healthcare leader. Her experience as Medical Director of rehabilitation units across multiple hospital systems has placed her at the center of decisions that affect patient care, medical teams, and hospital operations.

Leadership in healthcare requires more than medical expertise. It demands sound judgment, clear communication, and the ability to guide teams through complex challenges. Patient safety, staffing decisions, and operational pressures often converge in ways that require thoughtful leadership.

Dr. Strong approaches those responsibilities with a collaborative mindset. She believes the best outcomes happen when every member of the care team feels valued and heard. “Rehabilitation medicine depends on teamwork among physicians,

nurses, therapists, and support staff, each contributing specialized knowledge to the recovery process,” says Dr. Strong.

Her leadership philosophy centers on respect, accountability, and shared responsibility for patient care. “Every member of the team must feel safe speaking up. Good ideas can come from anyone, and when people feel respected and supported, the entire team performs better.”

Today, Dr. Strong continues to deepen her leadership experience through hospital governance committees and executive leadership programs. These opportunities allow her to broaden her understanding of healthcare systems, policy development, and community engagement. Her goal is to become an even more effective advocate for both patients and healthcare professionals.

Whether guiding a patient through recovery, mentoring younger physicians, or shaping healthcare systems, Dr. Kami Strong’s work reflects a deep belief that medicine is ultimately about restoring lives. And for the countless individuals whose futures she helps rebuild, that calling makes all the difference.

VICTORIOUS BY DESIGN

Wellness HEALTH &

There are rooms where time slows, where strength fades, and where dignity must be carefully protected. Rooms where individuals may no longer be able to speak for themselves, advocate for their needs, or even explain their pain. Yet every day, someone walks into those spaces. Not for recognition or applause, but because the moment demands it. Ivalyn Johnson has spent her life walking into those rooms.

For more than three decades, she has served as a frontline caregiver, stepping into moments that require patience, steadiness, and a deep sense of responsibility for others. She cares for individuals at their most vulnerable, offering not only health care support, but something far more enduring: presence, patience, and compassion.

“I love people and I like to take care of people,” Ivalyn says.

There is no performance in her words. No attempt to impress. For Ivalyn, caregiving is not something she learned to do. It is who she is.

In her interview with VBD Magazine, the compassionate caregiver speaks with clarity and honesty about the realities of caregiving, the strength required to serve others, and the responsibility of showing up when it matters most.

EARLY LIFE AND INFLUENCE

Long before she entered healthcare, Ivalyn’s foundation was formed in Rhoden Hall, Clarendon, Jamaica, where she was raised in a large, close-knit family. She is the fourth of eleven children, growing up with six sisters and four brothers under the guidance of her parents, Estrina and Stanley Johnson.

I CAME TO ORLANDO ON VACATION AND IMMEDIATELY FELL IN LOVE WITH IT. IT REMINDED ME OF BACK HOME, THE WEATHER, THE TREES, THE ENVIRONMENT.

Ivalyn Johnson

CARE THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Photos Courtesy of Ivalyn Johnson

KINDNESS IS ESSENTIAL, AND YOU MUST TRULY LOVE CARING FOR PEOPLE. YOU NEED STRONG PEOPLE SKILLS AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE. YOU ALSO NEED TO BE A GOOD LISTENER SO YOU CAN ADVOCATE FOR THE RESIDENTS.

Life in Jamaica instilled a strong sense of responsibility early. In a household of that size, everyone contributed, and everyone learned to care for one another. Service was not taught through instruction alone. It was part of daily life.

Ivalyn attended Kellits Primary School and later Kellits Secondary School, where her interests extended beyond academics. She developed practical skills that reflected both creativity and discipline, studying food and needlework and developing a lasting appreciation for both.

“I’ve always loved food and needlework,” she recalls. “I studied those skills at school.”

She carried those skills into adulthood. For ten years, she worked in dressmaking and offered catering services, preparing meals, baking wedding cakes, and serving her community in ways that brought people together during meaningful moments.

Her dream was to open her own restaurant. Although that path did not unfold as planned, the desire to serve others remained constant. It would later take a different form, one that would impact far more lives than she could have imagined.

A JOURNEY BEYOND HOME

In 1990, Ivalyn made the decision to leave Jamaica and migrate to the United States, settling in Brooklyn, New York. The transition was both exciting and overwhelming.

“I couldn’t believe this was the United States,” she says. “The environment was different in every way. Red brick buildings stood side by side, and the pace of life was faster.” The sense of space she had known back home was replaced by movement, noise, and constant activity.

She began working as a one-on-one caregiver on the outskirts of Manhattan, navigating daily life with discipline and determination. Each day included a 45-minute subway commute, a routine that required consistency and resilience. “I’m not a talker, but you see interesting people on the subway,” she says.

For ten years, she worked in various caregiving roles throughout New York, building experience and quietly strengthening the skills that would define her career. She learned not only how to care for people physically, but how to read emotions, anticipate needs, and remain steady in environments that required both patience and adaptability.

A

CALLING RECOGNIZED

Caregiving was not something Ivalyn

THE ENVIRONMENT WAS DIFFERENT IN EVERY WAY. RED BRICK BUILDINGS STOOD SIDE BY SIDE, AND THE PACE OF LIFE WAS FASTER.

stumbled into. It aligned with something she had always carried within her. “I always liked helping people,” she says. “It gives me a sense of joy and peace.”

That instinct guided her toward caring for the elderly, a population she speaks about with both tenderness and respect. “Taking care of the elderly, is like taking care of children,” she explains. There is no condescension in that statement, only understanding. She recognizes the vulnerability that comes with age and illness, and she meets it with patience and care.

Over time, she came to understand that caregiving requires far more than physical effort. It requires emotional awareness, consistency, and a willingness to show up fully, even when the work is difficult.

EVERY DAY IS A CHALLENGE. TRUST IS NOT AUTOMATIC WITH THE RESIDENTS. IT IS BUILT. AND ONCE IT IS BUILT, IT CHANGES EVERYTHING.

BUILDING A LIFE IN A NEW PLACE

Years later, a visit to Orlando, Florida, opened the door to another transition. “I came to Orlando on vacation and immediately fell in love with it. It reminded me of back home, the weather, the trees, the environment,” she says.

The familiarity of Orlando drew her in, and within eight months, she made the decision to relocate. She has now called Orlando home for 24 years.

Her first position there was at an autism center, where she worked for two years. It was a different kind of caregiving, one that required patience, observation, and adaptability. From there, she transitioned into long-term care, where she has spent more than two decades serving elderly residents in a nursing facility.

During that time, she has witnessed significant changes in the healthcare landscape. “Healthcare changed so much,” she states. “Individuals are entering care facilities at a younger age.” Many are facing challenges related to addiction, homelessness, and complex medical

conditions. These shifts have made the work more demanding, requiring not only physical care but emotional awareness.

STRENGTH UNDER PRESSURE

For Ivalyn, caregiving begins with something simple, but essential. “It all boils down to how you enter a resident’s room,” she explains. Her approach is intentional. “I enter with a smile and I treat them kindly. I try my best to meet their needs or explain why a particular need cannot be met.”

She understands that the way she speaks, the way she moves, and the way she responds all contribute to how a resident feels. “Every day is a challenge. Trust is not automatic with the residents. It is built. And once it is built, it changes everything,” she reveals.

There are moments when residents are frustrated or unkind, when emotions run high, and when situations require patience that cannot be forced. Ivalyn’s response is rooted in perspective and discipline. “You have to remember why you are there,” she says.

She relies on teamwork when needed, seeking support from supervisors and coworkers. But at the center of her strength is something deeper. “I trust God. You have to trust God, so you’ll be able to smile at the storm.” That faith allows her to remain steady, even when the work is emotionally demanding.

It is also what sustains her day after day. She prioritizes rest, proper nutrition, and spiritual grounding. “I read my Bible, pray, and ask God to take me through the day,” she says. In a role that constantly requires her to give, these practices allow her to

remain centered, steady, and prepared to show up again.

ADVOCATING WITH PURPOSE

In many cases, those in her care are unable to fully express their needs. This makes her role as an advocate critical. “You have to advocate for them by building trust,” she explains.

Through that trust, residents begin to open up. She listens, observes, and communicates with supervisors and healthcare teams to ensure residents’ needs are addressed. Her work extends beyond tasks.

I ENTER WITH A SMILE AND I TREAT THEM KINDLY. I TRY MY BEST TO MEET THEIR NEEDS OR EXPLAIN WHY A PARTICULAR NEED CANNOT BE MET.

It includes protecting dignity, ensuring safety, and giving a voice to those who may not have one.

When asked what defines an exceptional caregiver, her answer is direct. “Kindness is essential, and you must truly love caring for people. You need strong people skills and emotional intelligence. You also need to be a good listener so you can advocate for the residents.”

These qualities are not developed overnight. They are shaped over time, strengthened through experience, and reflected in the way a caregiver shows up every day.

THE ROAD AHEAD

Ivalyn’s life is anchored in family. She is a mother of five, a grandmother of ten, and a great-grandmother. Her responsibilities extend far beyond her profession, yet she continues to show up fully with the same consistency and care that define her work.

When asked what she hopes people will remember, her response reflects both humility and purpose. “I want them to remember me for the good care I gave, and that I went beyond the call of duty.” That standard has guided her throughout her career, shaping not only how she works, but how she serves.

After decades of service, Ivalyn is preparing for a new chapter. “Retirement and travelling the world,” she says. She looks forward to spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and extended family, embracing the life she has built through years of dedication and sacrifice.

Her work has not always been visible, but it has always mattered. She shows up. She serves. She cares. And in doing so, she leaves behind something that cannot be measured but will always be remembered: care that made a difference.

Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP IN HEALTHCARE

Leadership in public health is tested in moments when there is no time to hesitate. An outbreak spreads across borders. A healthcare system strains under pressure. Communities search for answers as uncertainty grows.

These are the moments that shape leaders and Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams has spent her career answering them. From leading national health responses to guiding global efforts in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions, she understands what it means to make decisions when the stakes are measured in lives. In those moments, steady leadership is not optional. It is essential.

A seasoned healthcare executive and former Deputy Surgeon General and Acting Surgeon General of the United States, Dr. Trent-Adams has built a career defined by service at the highest levels. Her journey has taken her from a rural farm in Virginia to the forefront of national and global health leadership. Over the course of her career, she has served as a nurse, soldier, researcher, Rear Admiral, and university president, with each role reinforcing her belief that healthcare systems must work for everyone.

Now, as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), she has stepped into a role that helps shape how healthcare systems evolve across the globe. The organization, widely recognized for advancing quality improvement, patient safety, and health equity, stands at the center of efforts to improve healthcare at scale.

Yet beyond the titles and global impact, what becomes clear in conversation is her authenticity. In her interview with VBD Magazine, Dr. Trent-Adams spoke with quiet confidence and clarity, offering

TO BE ON A CAMPUS WHERE THERE WERE SO MANY BRILLIANT AFRICAN AMERICAN LEADERS WAS A SURREAL EXPERIENCE.

thoughtful reflections on her journey, her values, and the experiences that shaped her path. She was forthcoming and personable, the kind of leader whose work is guided by conviction.

The philosophy that guides her leadership did not begin in policy rooms or research institutions. It began decades earlier, in the quiet countryside of Virginia.

ROOTS IN RURAL VIRGINIA

Dr. Trent-Adams describes herself simply as “a proud Virginia girl.” She grew up in Appomattox County, where life was shaped by farming, family, and a strong sense of community. It was a place where people knew one another, where responsibility was shared, and where the well-being of one often depended on the care of many.

“I grew up on a farm,” Dr. Trent-Adams recalls. “My grandparents, Edwin and Josephine Jackson and Almond and Naomi Trent, had farms in rural Virginia, and it was a very tight-knit community.”

Within that environment, her grandmother became one of her earliest and most enduring influences. Though not formally trained in medicine, she was known throughout the community as someone who showed up when others were in need. When illness struck or hardship arose, she stepped in with quiet compassion and a willingness to help. “I think one of my grandmother’s greatest joys was helping others when they were in a very challenging situation or when there was a need in the community,” Dr. Trent-Adams says.

Those early experiences offered more than a sense of belonging. They revealed both the strength of community and the realities of limited access to care. Healthcare in rural Virginia was not always within reach. “There was only one doctor in the county,” she explains. “If you needed healthcare, you had to drive to Lynchburg or Charlottesville. Sometimes even down to Duke.”

For many families, those distances created real and sometimes difficult barriers. Watching neighbors navigate those challenges left a lasting impression and began to shape her understanding of what equitable care should look like. “Wherever there’s a gap, there’s an inequity,” Dr. Trent-Adams states. “And our responsibility is to close those gaps.”

A FIRST-GENERATION PATH

Education became the bridge that carried Dr. Trent-Adams to national leadership. As the first member of her extended family to attend college, the opportunity represented more than personal achievement. It carried the weight of expectation, responsibility, and the promise of something greater.

She earned a four-year ROTC scholarship to Hampton University, one of the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities, where her path began to take shape.

“I’m the first child of both my grandparents to go to college,” she reveals.

The experience proved transformative. At Hampton, she studied nursing while preparing for service in the Army Nurse Corps, immersed in an environment that emphasized both academic excellence and personal development.

“It was a place where people really cared about the students,” she says. “Not just about your academics, but about making sure you were a well-rounded human being.”

Surrounded by faculty members who believed deeply in the potential of their students, she began to see her future differently. The campus community ex-

posed her to a legacy of leadership and excellence that expanded her vision of what was possible.

“To be on a campus where there were so many brilliant African American leaders was a surreal experience,” she says.

Those years did more than confirm her direction. They sharpened her sense of purpose and defined the role she would carry forward. Nursing would become her pathway to service.

EQUITY IS ABOUT

MAKING SURE PEOPLE GET WHAT THEY NEED IN THE WAY THAT THEY NEED IT.

Dr. Trent-Adams received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Hampton University, a Master of Science in Nursing and Health Policy from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

A CAREER IN PUBLIC SERVICE

A lifelong public servant, Dr. Trent-Adams began her public health career in 1992 when she joined the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) Commissioned Corps. Over three decades of service, she rose through the ranks, ultimately retiring in 2020 as a Rear Admiral Upper Half.

In 2013, she stepped into a key leadership role as Deputy Associate Administrator for

the HIV/AIDS Bureau within the Health Resources and Services Administration. There, she helped oversee the $2.3 billion Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program, which provides medical care, treatment, referrals, and support services for uninsured and underserved individuals living with HIV, while also supporting the training of healthcare professionals nationwide.

Her leadership continued to expand at the national level when she served as the first African American Chief Nurse of the USPHS in 2013. She went on to serve as Deputy Surgeon General from 2015 to 2018. In that role, she became a trusted advisor on some of the nation’s most pressing health challenges, including efforts to address the opioid crisis. Her leadership during this period reflected both her clinical expertise and her ability to guide complex public health initiatives at the national level.

Dr. Trent-Adams later served as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services from 2019 to 2020, leading national and global public health initiatives, directing department-wide policies and programs, and helping manage complex public health response efforts.

Her transition into academic leadership marked another chapter in her career. In 2022, she became the seventh president of the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, where her leadership advanced both research and academic innovation. During her tenure, the institution received a $150 million grant for Alzheimer’s disease research, the largest in the University of North Texas system’s history. She also oversaw the launch of a new College of Nursing, further strengthening the pipeline of future healthcare professionals.

Throughout these roles, she remained focused on communities often overlooked by traditional healthcare systems. “Sometimes people have health insurance,” she explains, “but they don’t know how to navigate the healthcare system.” Without guidance, patients may delay seeking

care until medical issues become severe enough to require emergency treatment.

“Equity is about making sure people get what they need in the way that they need it.”

GLOBAL HEALTH ON THE FRONTLINES

Dr. Trent-Adams’ work has frequently placed her at the center of global health crises. One of the most defining moments came during the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. As the first commanding officer on the ground in Monrovia, Liberia, she led the United States Public Health Service response to the epidemic.

The mission required rapid coordination with international agencies, local healthcare workers, and public health organizations. The stakes were enormous as communities struggled to contain a virus that had already claimed thousands of lives. Her leadership during that crisis reflected the qualities that have come to define her career: calm under pressure, strategic focus, and an unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.

Beyond emergency response efforts, she has represented the United States in global health forums, including the World Health Organization’s Global Nursing Forum.

Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams receiving the Florence Nightingale Medal from the leadership of the American Red Cross

In those settings, she has consistently advocated for stronger public health systems and greater recognition of the vital role nurses play in delivering care.

Dr. Trent-Adams’ contributions to public health have been widely recognized. In 2017, she received the International Red Cross Florence Nightingale Medal, the highest international honor awarded to a nurse. She has also been honored with the Distinguished Service Medal for sustained leadership and dedication at the highest levels of public service, the Meritorious Service Medal for her leadership during the Ebola response in West Africa, and the Surgeon General’s Medallion for her service as Acting Surgeon General in 2017.

LEADING THROUGH COMPLEXITY

Leadership at the highest level is not defined solely by achievement. It is also revealed in moments when institutions are tested, decisions are scrutinized, and accountability becomes unavoidable.

During her tenure as president of the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Dr. Trent-Adams faced one of the most challenging periods of her leadership. The institution came under national scrutiny following an investigation into its Willed Body Program, which raised serious concerns about oversight, communication with families, and compliance with state regulations.

Reporting found that the program had, in some cases, failed to contact reachable family members before classifying remains as unclaimed and using them for medical research. Additional findings raised questions about whether certain practices aligned with Texas law.

Following the investigation, the university took corrective action, including leadership changes and the suspension of the program. As president, Dr. Trent-Adams was ultimately responsible for the institution, and the situation tested her resolve and reinforced her belief that leaders must take responsibility when things go wrong.

In her interview with VBD Magazine , Dr. Trent-Adams addressed that period with composure and clarity. She acknowledged the weight of leadership in complex environments where decisions carry far-reaching consequences. For her, leadership in such moments requires more than experience. It demands accountability, sound judgment, and the ability to remain steady under pressure.

She approached the situation with the same principles that have guided her throughout her career: a commitment to doing what is right, thoughtful decision-making, and an understanding that leadership is often defined not by ease, but by how one navigates difficulty.

BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS FOR CHANGE

One theme runs consistently through Dr. Trent-Adams’ approach to leadership: collaboration. Healthcare challenges rarely exist in isolation. They are shaped by economic realities, social conditions, education systems, and public policy. Addressing them requires coordination across sectors and a shared commitment to solutions.

“We don’t live in this world by ourselves,” she says. “We’re better when we work together.”

That belief has guided her work across government, academia, and global health partnerships, and it continues to shape her vision for the future of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement.

(L-R) Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams, former President Barack Obama, and Dr. Vivek Murthy at the ceremony to present the Presidential Unit Citation to the U.S. Public Health Service for their response to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa
(L–R) Dr. Regina Benjamin, former President Joe Biden, and Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams at the inaugural Biden Cancer Summit in Washington, D.C.

She often frames the challenge in simple but direct terms. “How do we help people understand that there are solutions to very entrenched and challenging health problems?”

For Dr. Trent-Adams, the answer begins with connection. “We build knowledge, develop partnerships, and support each other as healthcare providers and as people helping others.”

ANCHORED BY FAITH AND FAMILY

Despite the scope of her professional achievements, Dr. Trent-Adams remains rooted in the values that shaped her long before her career began. Faith and family have served as constant anchors, guiding both her decisions and her understanding of leadership.

She often reflects on the influence of her grandmother, whose words continue to guide her perspective on service and purpose. “I heard my grandmother say all the time, you never know where you’re going to end up in this world,” she recalls. “She would say, ‘The Lord will always send you what you need. You may be someone’s blessing today and not even realize it.’”

Those early lessons became a framework for how Dr. Trent-Adams would lead, especially in moments of pressure and uncertainty. Over time, her faith became a source of strength she could rely on in the most demanding seasons of her career. “Faith is a big part of my life,” she says. “There are moments when you realize it is not humanly possible to carry everything on your own. That’s when you have to let go and let God.”

While faith has anchored her, family has remained her constant center. Dr. Trent-Adams speaks openly about the role her husband, Dennis Adams, and her daughters, Nadira and Alexa, have played throughout her journey. In a career defined by national responsibility and global service, they have been both her support system and her source of accountability. Their presence has helped her navigate the demands of leadership while remaining connected to what matters most.

She acknowledges that the path has not always been easy. There were moments when the weight of responsibility required time away from her family and difficult choices.

A LEGACY OF IMPACT

Over the course of her career, Dr. Trent-Adams has emerged as one of the most respected voices in public health. Her leadership has shaped national policy, strengthened global health efforts, and expanded pathways for the next generation of healthcare professionals.

FAITH IS A BIG PART OF MY LIFE. THERE ARE MOMENTS WHEN YOU REALIZE IT IS NOT HUMANLY POSSIBLE TO CARRY EVERYTHING ON YOUR OWN. THAT’S

WHEN YOU HAVE TO LET GO AND LET GOD.

The challenges ahead are complex. Healthcare systems must adapt to advancing technologies, confront persistent disparities, and respond to global threats that cross borders without warning.

For Dr. Trent-Adams, this is not unfamiliar terrain. It is the work she has been preparing for throughout her career. Now, as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, she is positioned to influence how healthcare is delivered, improved, and experienced on a global scale. The responsibility is significant, and the work ahead is critical.

Improve care. Protect lives. Expand access.

As the future of healthcare continues to evolve, Dr. Sylvia Trent-Adams remains at the forefront of shaping it.

For her, the mission has always been clear. Healthcare must work for everyone.

DESIGN VICTORIOUS BY HUMANITARIAN Feature

Photo Credit: John Bechet

Dr. Kijana Nix

Achild’s health develops over time, requiring careful observation, timely decisions, and the steady presence of a physician who understands that every stage of growth carries meaning. For Dr. Kijana Nix, a board-certified general pediatrician and newborn hospitalist, that responsibility is constant and deeply significant. The core of her work centers on guiding children and families through the broader journey of pediatric care.

Her work demands clinical knowledge, discernment, presence, and the ability to act with confidence in situations where the outcome is not always clear. In those moments, training, instinct, and faith must come together. Every shift holds the possibility that a child’s well-being may depend on her ability to think clearly, act decisively, and remain steady under pressure.

“I always say, ‘Lord, please guide my eyes, my ears, my hands, my heart, and my lips.’ I say that to prepare myself for whatever is about to happen,” Dr. Nix states.

It is a quiet prayer that grounds her in the unpredictable demands of pediatric care, where no two cases are the same and every decision carries weight.

In conversation with VBD Magazine , Dr. Nix shares the journey that defined her path, the responsibility entrusted to her as a physician, her work in global missions, and the faith that continues to guide her service.

A DREAM ROOTED IN KINGSTON

Dr. Nix grew up in Kingston, Jamaica, where her early years were shaped by a strong academic foundation and a growing interest in healthcare.

“I’ve always wanted to become an ophthalmologist ever since I was six years old,” she recalls.

Her inspiration came from observing medical professionals around her, including a beloved aunt who served as a physician in Jamaica’s public health system. As a teenager, she spent Saturdays at her aunt’s

YET EVEN

IN THOSE MOMENTS, CHILDREN

OFTEN DEMONSTRATE AN EXTRAORDINARY ABILITY TO RECOVER. THEY GET BETTER. THEY SHOW GRATITUDE. THEY KEEP YOU YOUNG AND ON YOUR TOES.

medical office observing patient care and learning about medical instruments.

“I knew what a sphygmomanometer and an ophthalmoscope were before I went to high school,” she says.

Those early experiences planted seeds of curiosity that would eventually grow into a distinguished medical career. Dr. Nix is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and licensed to practice medicine across multiple states, including Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, Georgia, and Texas. Her reach extends beyond the United States, with international licensure in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, reflecting a commitment to care that crosses borders.

She earned her medical degree from the University of the West Indies, Faculty of Medical Sciences at the Mona Campus in Kingston, Jamaica, before completing

her pediatric residency training at Howard University Hospital and Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

Interestingly, pediatrics was not originally Dr. Nix’s first choice. When applying for residency programs in the United States, she submitted applications to multiple specialties. “Pediatrics was one of the last ones that I decided to add to the list,” she admits. But once her residency began, something unexpected happened. “I was like, wow, this is it.”

Looking back, she believes the path was guided by something greater than chance. “I think God was just bringing me to it.”

THE RESILIENCE OF CHILDREN

When asked what continues to inspire her after years in pediatric medicine, Dr. Nix does not hesitate. “The resilience of children,” she says.

Each day brings a wide spectrum of emotions in pediatric care. “Some visits are routine, while others are marked by illness, uncertainty, and anxious parents searching for reassurance,” she explains. “Yet even in those moments, children often demonstrate an extraordinary ability to recover. They get better. They show gratitude. They keep you young and on your toes.”

Working with children also requires a different kind of medical intuition. Babies cannot explain what hurts. So, physicians must rely on observation, experience, and communication with parents.

“Babies can’t tell you what’s wrong,” Dr. Nix says. “So, you must be the eyes and the ears for them. You have to be their advocates.”

I OCCASIONALLY ATTEND DELIVERIES, BUT EVERY DAY, ESPECIALLY WHEN I WORK IN THE HOSPITAL SETTING, I MUST BE PREPARED TO RESUSCITATE A NEWBORN OR TAKE CHARGE IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS.

Over time, pediatricians often become deeply connected to the families they serve. “I just went to my patient’s four-year-old birthday party,” she says with a smile. She also stated that another family plans to invite her to their daughter’s ballet recital.

Moments like these reflect the trust families place in their child’s physician.

THE SACRED RESPONSIBILITY OF NEWBORN CARE

As a newborn hospitalist, Dr. Nix has worked in some of the most critical moments of a child’s life, responding to deliveries where immediate intervention can mean the difference between life and loss. Her experience spans more than a decade in rural Georgia, additional years in Maryland, and continued service in hospital settings where readiness is not optional.

“I occasionally attend deliveries, but every day, especially when I work in the hospital setting, I must be prepared to resuscitate a newborn or take charge in emergency situations,” she explains.

These moments often involve infants facing breathing difficulties or other complications immediately after birth, requiring specialized training in neonatal

resuscitation. In those situations, the focus narrows to stabilizing the child and preserving life under intense pressure.

Her work has also extended internationally through mission trips to Haiti and Ghana, where access to critical resources is not always guaranteed. In those environments, clinical skills must be matched with urgency, adaptability, and decisive action.

“In 2025, while in Kenya, I cared for a five-month-old infant who arrived at the clinic in respiratory distress, progressing toward imminent respiratory failure. We could have lost him while waiting for oxygen. Once I found out the location of the oxygen source, I ran with the infant in my arms and prepared to initiate resuscitative measures.”

Through swift intervention and skilled response, the child survived. “God was definitely there; it was a miracle!” Moments like these reflect the reality of Dr. Nix’s work, where preparation, speed, and clarity determine outcomes in real time.

“If a baby stops breathing, you have to know what to do,” Dr. Nix states. “Premature babies may arrive with lungs that are not fully developed. Others experience complications during delivery. In these critical moments, physicians must stabilize the infant before transferring them to specialized neonatal intensive care units.”

Dr. Nix recently completed the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Newborn Resuscitation Program (NRP) instructor course at Howard University Hospital, equipping her to train other healthcare professionals in life-saving neonatal techniques. Dr. Nix is grateful for the support and mentorship by her neonatologist colleagues at the hospital.

“In 2025, I was invited to join a colleague in Liberia to assist with teaching an NRP course to pediatricians. It was well received, and we have been invited to return to train additional physicians and healthcare professionals involved in newborn care.”

Her commitment to expanding this training was shaped by a defining moment

during her time in Ghana, when she had to assist a newborn to breathe. In 2024, while in the field seeing patients under a tent, she heard someone yelling her name.

“I ran toward the clinic on the compound and, upon entering the room, found what appeared to be a lifeless newborn under a radiant warmer,” Dr. Nix says. “I sprang into action in the poorly lit room, assisted by members of the team who used their cell phone lights so I could observe the results of my resuscitative interventions. When he began to cry, I said, ‘Happy Birthday’ to this precious newborn. It felt surreal to see him again one year later when I returned to Ghana.”

A GLOBAL MISSION OF SERVICE

Dr. Nix’s commitment to philanthropy and global service began long before she became a physician. As a child, her mother encouraged her to stay informed by watching the news and reading the newspaper. It was during those early years that she saw international journalist Christiane Amanpour reporting from war-torn regions where medical care was scarce. Those reports caused her to become aware of humanitarian organizations like Doctors Without Borders.

After completing medical school in Jamaica, Dr. Nix volunteered extensively in underserved communities, where many of her patients were children. “Looking back at my journey made me realize that this was a calling.”

Her passion for serving vulnerable communities later took her to rural Georgia and eventually to international medical missions in countries such as Kenya, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Liberia, Antigua, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Haiti, and Jamaica. These missions focus not only on treatment but also on education and long-term impact.

Dr. Kijana Nix is the founder of Hands for a Cause Inc., a faith-based global humanitarian organization dedicated to providing healthcare services, education, and essential resources to underserved communities. The nonprofit organization provides vital resources such as toys, toiletries, school supplies, and groceries to families in need.

The organization was founded in 2023 after Dr. Nix and her high school classmates visited East Africa and recognized the importance of taking a more holistic approach to global outreach.

“Initially, we were in East Africa as tourists and found ourselves donating toys, clothing and school supplies in the Batwa Pigmy community of Rushaga,” she mentions. “On the last day of our trip, we went to a local grocery store in capital city to purchase food items and toiletries to donate to an orphanage in Kampala.”

The name Hands for a Cause reflects the organization’s mission: Humanitarian access to nurturing and development ser-

I SPRANG INTO ACTION IN THE POORLY LIT ROOM, ASSISTED BY MEMBERS OF THE TEAM WHO USED THEIR CELL PHONE LIGHTS SO I COULD OBSERVE THE RESULTS OF MY RESUSCITATIVE INTERVENTIONS. WHEN HE BEGAN TO CRY, I SAID, ‘HAPPY BIRTHDAY’ TO THIS PRECIOUS NEWBORN. IT FELT SURREAL TO SEE HIM AGAIN ONE YEAR LATER WHEN I RETURNED TO GHANA.

vices using a holistic approach. Built on the belief that strong communities create stronger futures, the organization was established by professionals who share a passion for service and a commitment to uplifting underprivileged populations. Today, Hands for a Cause supports communities across Africa, the Caribbean, and the United States, working to strengthen lives through compassion, education, and access to essential care.

Dr. Nix and her team are always on the move. In 2025, they returned to Ghana and visited Kenya on a mission trip, providing pediatric care in a resource-limited settings. The experience not only reinforced the urgency of her work but also deepened her connection to communities where access to care is not always guaranteed. The Foundation also donated medical supplies to the maternity hospital in Kingston, Jamaica.

Beyond her humanitarian work, Dr. Nix also contributes to public health education and community engagement. She has shared her medical expertise on radio interviews and co-authored the book Navigating a Triple Pandemic alongside other healthcare professionals, further extending her efforts to inform and empower communities around the world.

A LEADER IN MEDICINE AND SERVICE

Beyond clinical care, Dr. Nix plays an active role in medical education and innovation. She serves as an Adjunct As-

Courtesy of Dr. Kijana Nix

sistant Professor of Pediatrics at Howard University College of Medicine, where she mentors medical students and encourages the next generation of physicians.

She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a member of the International Society for Telemedicine and eHealth, reflecting her interest in expanding access to care through emerging technologies.

Her contributions have earned numerous recognitions, including:

l The American Academy of Pediatrics CME/CPD Award

l Recognition from Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser for service as a frontline healthcare hero during the pandemic

l Spirit of Mercy Award from the Convent of Mercy Alpha Academy Alumni Tristate Chapter

l The United States Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023

l Awards and recognition from other humanitarian organizations

Dr. Nix serves as Vice President of the Convent of Mercy Academy “Alpha” Alumni Tri-State Chapter, where she helps lead fundraising efforts to support current students and, on occasion, alumni pursuing higher education. Since 2018, she has also established a scholarship in her name at her alma mater, a school she holds in high regard.

She is also an executive member of the Jamaica Howard University Affinity Network (JHUAN), where she contributes to fundraising initiatives that provide scholarships for Jamaican students attending Howard University. Through this work, she supports mentorship and ongoing guidance for scholarship recipients.

FINDING BALANCE IN A DEMANDING PROFESSION

Medicine is demanding work, and pediatric care often carries emotional weight. To maintain balance, Dr. Nix prioritizes rest, creativity, and self-care. “These days I’m making sure that I go to bed earlier,” she says. “Sleep is important.”

Exercise, dancing, cooking, and photography also help her recharge. Her creative outlet led to the creation of nixcpics.com, a wellness platform where she shares photography and designs that encourage people to create personal spaces of peace and reflection.

Dr. Nix was raised in a deeply spiritual

household. “My mom is super, super religious. Her faith overflowed onto me,” she says. “When I’m faced with challenges at work, that’s when I lean more on faith.”

That foundation of faith is reflected not only in how she approaches her work, but also in the way she values the people who support her journey.

“I’m grateful to my parents and my husband for their unwavering support. They help keep me grounded. My husband has played a key role in the success of both my local community efforts and international humanitarian work. I’m also thankful for the mentors who encouraged me to start my practice and foundation. They are the wind beneath my wings.”

CONTINUING THE MISSION

Dr. Nix’s long-term goal is to equip local professionals with the skills needed to reduce newborn mortality rates in underserved regions. “If I can replicate that in different countries,” she says, “that would mean everything.” Her immediate plans include returning to Liberia to support her colleague to train additional physicians

I’M GRATEFUL TO MY PARENTS AND MY HUSBAND FOR THEIR UNWAVERING SUPPORT. THEY HELP KEEP ME GROUNDED.

and healthcare workers in life-saving neonatal techniques.

This year, she intends to return to Ghana and Jamaica, while also extending her outreach to Sierra Leone, alongside continued community service efforts within the United States. Looking ahead to 2027, her plans include ongoing service in the U.S., additional missions to Jamaica and Ghana, and the possibility of new outreach efforts in Zimbabwe.

Dr. Nix’s commitment to service extends beyond the clinical setting. Her foundation is hosting When Art Meets Fashion, a community-centered event taking place on June 13, 2026, in Silver Spring, Maryland. The event brings together food, fashion, art, music, and culture in support of global mission efforts.

In March 2023, she launched “Reading Day” in recognition of National Reading Month, with a focus on promoting health literacy among pediatric patients, ensuring that families can read, understand, and follow medical guidance with confidence. After a oneyear hiatus, the initiative was revived in 2026, and it was supported by the parents who brought their children to the event. Each child left with a book of their choice.

The work continues to unfold in ways she never expected. For Dr. Kijana Nix, each day is a reminder of why she became a physician in the first place—because every child deserves a fighting chance. And sometimes, that chance begins with the hands, the heart, and the quiet prayer of a doctor who refuses to give up on life.

DESIGN VICTORIOUS BY

Entrepreneurship

Mirela Maheu

RESTORING MENTAL CLARITY AND EMOTIONAL BALANCE

Mirela Maheu knows what it means to function well on the outside while quietly feeling depleted within. For more than 20 years, she built a successful career in Human Resources, working across Central and Eastern Europe and supporting individuals within high-pressure professional environments. She is well-versed in performance, productivity, and leadership, but she also recognizes how often people conceal exhaustion, emotional overload, and burnout.

Her perspective was not formed through observation alone. It was shaped through experience. In the midst of a structured and accomplished career, Mirela confronted a reality that many high-performing individuals live with but rarely acknowledge. The demands of responsibility, consistency, and output had created a level of disconnection that could no longer be ignored.

This realization marked a turning point. It shifted her focus from managing performance to pursuing wellbeing at a deeper level. Today, as a Brain Coach and Mental and Emotional Wellbeing Coach, Mirela helps others do what she once had to learn herself—pause, reconnect, and restore clarity from within.

A JOURNEY ROOTED IN EXPERIENCE

Mirela was born in Giurgiu, Romania. Her academic foundation began at Informatics High School in Giurgiu and continued at the Faculty of Management and Marketing at Artifex University in Bucharest, Romania, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in economics. As her career progressed in Human Resources, she pursued additional training that reflected a growing focus on the mind, emotional patterns, and human behavior. She later became a Certified Brain Coach, Certified HR Manager, Mindfulness Practitioner, and Access Bars Practitioner.

Her years in corporate leadership provided direct insight into the realities people face behind high performance and professional success. She was not

only supporting individuals in demanding environments, she was also close enough to those pressures to recognize how stress develops quietly and accumulates over time.

“After many years in the corporate world, I experienced periods of stress and burnout that made me realize how disconnected we can become from ourselves, even when everything looks ‘fine’ on the outside,” Mirela shared. That experience forced a shift in perspective. What had once been a focus on performance began to expand into a deeper exploration of wellbeing.

Two years ago, Mirela made a decisive change. She stepped away from corporate life, relocated to Valencia, Spain, and began building the work she now leads as a Brain Coach and Mental and Emotional Wellbeing Coach. Her goal is to help individuals release stress, reconnect with themselves, and regain clarity and balance.

WHAT BRAIN COACHING REALLY MEANS

Mirela describes brain coaching in a way that is both practical and compassionate. “Brain coaching is about understanding how the mind works and gently reshaping thinking patterns to create clarity, balance, and ease,” she explains. “It is not about forcing change, but about building awareness with kindness.”

She combines neuroscience, mindfulness, and energy practices to help people reduce stress, quiet overthinking, improve focus, and feel more in control of their emotions and decisions. Unlike approaches that remain primarily focused on the

AFTER MANY YEARS IN THE CORPORATE WORLD, I EXPERIENCED PERIODS OF STRESS AND BURNOUT THAT MADE ME REALIZE HOW DISCONNECTED WE CAN BECOME FROM OURSELVES, EVEN WHEN EVERYTHING LOOKS ‘FINE’ ON THE OUTSIDE.”

past, Mirela’s work is grounded in the present and future. She is interested in growth, possibility, and practical transformation. Most importantly, she does not present herself as someone who fixes people. “It is also a collaborative process. I don’t ‘fix’ people,” she says. “I support them in rediscovering their own inner resources.”

MENTAL HEALTH AND ENERGY HEALING

One of the defining features of Mirela’s work is the way she integrates mental health and energy healing. She does not see them as competing disciplines, but

as complementary. Mental health brings understanding to thoughts, patterns, and emotions. Energy healing works at a different level, helping to release tension and blockages that the mind alone cannot always resolve. Together, they create a more complete process.

For Mirela, true healing is not only about thinking differently. It is also about releasing, softening, and reconnecting with the self. She remembers working with a woman who could clearly explain her stress and emotional patterns, yet still felt internally heavy and exhausted. During one session, after slowing down

enough to truly feel what she had been carrying, the woman whispered, “I didn’t realize how much I was holding.” There were tears, but also relief. Mirela sees moments like these as the essence of her work. Not because something external has been fixed, but because something internal has finally been released.

THE STRUGGLES MANY PEOPLE HIDE

Mirela often works with high-achievers. They are professionals, leaders, and people accustomed to managing multiple responsibilities while continuing to show up at a high level. Yet beneath that level of competence, many are experiencing the same patterns:

l Feeling drained even when they are working hard

l Struggling to switch off and truly rest

l Overthinking and second-guessing themselves

l Living under constant pressure to perform

l Feeling disconnected from their emotions and inner clarity

She understands these patterns well because she has seen them repeatedly, both professionally and personally. One client told her, “I feel like I am always running, but I do not even know where anymore.” That sentence stayed with her because it captured what many people are living. They are not simply busy, they are disconnected. And when that disconnection continues long enough, even ordinary decisions can begin to feel mentally and emotionally heavy.

THE WAY FORWARD

Mirela’s philosophy, “Your mind, your healing, your power,” is not about blame. It is about ownership. She believes personal responsibility in healing begins with

BRAIN COACHING IS ABOUT UNDERSTANDING HOW THE MIND WORKS AND GENTLY RESHAPING THINKING PATTERNS TO CREATE CLARITY, BALANCE, AND EASE.

choosing to show up for yourself, even in small ways. It means noticing how you think, feel, and respond. It means guiding your mind toward greater clarity and balance with patience rather than harshness. “Healing is not something that happens to you. It is something you co-create, moment by moment,” she explains.

Two words appear again and again in Mirela’s work: kindness and clarity. She does not treat them as decorative language. She treats them as essential conditions for healing. Without kindness, people remain trapped in self-judgment. Without clarity, they remain confused, overwhelmed, and unsure how to move forward.

As she puts it, “Kindness softens the path, and clarity lights the way.” In her work, she encourages people to approach themselves with curiosity rather than criticism. She creates space for them to explore their inner world without pressure. That is where awareness begins to rise. That is where people begin to feel safe enough to tell the truth about what they are carrying.

THE BODY REMEMBERS WHAT THE MIND HOLDS

Mirela also speaks clearly about the connection between mental and physical wellbeing. Unprocessed emotions do not simply disappear. They often remain in the body, showing up as tension, fatigue, sleep disruption, or recurring discomfort.

She recalls working with someone who dealt with constant tension in her shoulders. Treatments brought temporary relief, but the discomfort always returned. Through their sessions, the deeper cause became clearer. The woman had been carrying emotional pressure for a long time, always trying to stay strong and manage more than she could express. After allowing herself to feel and release those emotions, she said softly, “My body finally feels lighter.” That moment reflects a truth Mirela sees often: sometimes the body is simply waiting for us to listen.

TOOLS THAT HELP PEOPLE SHIFT

Mirela offers her clients practical tools that they can use in everyday life. Among the methods she teaches are:

l Mindfulness and breathing exercises

l Journaling without judgment

l Reframing limiting beliefs

l Body awareness practices

l Pause-and-response training

Her emphasis is not on intensity, but on consistency. Small, conscious shifts practiced over time can replace automatic negativity with awareness, resilience, and greater inner ease.

FAITH, ENERGY, AND INNER PEACE

Mirela daily habits include routines that are simple, intentional, and consistent. They support the same clarity and balance she helps others cultivate. She prioritizes:

Mind & emotional balance:

l Daily meditation to create clarity and inner calm

l Breathing exercises in the morning and evening to ground and reset

l Conscious disconnection when needed, allowing space to recharge

Body & physical wellbeing:

l Practicing Pilates to stay strong and aligned

l Nourishing my body with healthy food and proper hydration

l Monthly relaxing massage to release tension and restore balance

Daily movement & connection with self:

l Taking the stairs instead of the lift, supporting brain health and mental sharpness

l Walking in the park for at least one hour each day, reconnecting with nature and with myself

For Mirela, faith provides energy, direction, and peace, especially in seasons when life feels uncertain. “It is a quiet fuel that motivates me to keep going,” she says. “Faith helps us trust the process and honor our body. It gives us courage to release what no longer serves us, to stay committed to our growth, and to reconnect with a deeper sense of inner peace.”

WHAT COMES NEXT

Mirela is now fully focused on her oneto-one coaching program, helping people release stress, burnout, and emotional fatigue while reconnecting with clarity and strength. She also leads workshops on abundance, mental and emotional health, and stress release. Through these sessions, participants gain practical tools that help them feel lighter, more present, and more empowered.

This summer, she is planning a women’s retreat, designed as a space to pause, recharge, and explore personal growth and wellbeing more intentionally. She is also working on a book that will share reflections and practices to help people cultivate clarity, balance, and authentic wellbeing in daily life.

Mirela’s work is both timely and necessary. Healing does not begin when everything is perfect. It begins when a person pauses long enough to listen, chooses to be present, and takes one intentional step toward clarity.

A GIFT TO OUR READERS

As a gift to our readers, Mirela is offering 5 Neural Techniques to Prevent Burnout and Increase Performance, a mini-guide designed for corporate women. Click here to download: 5 Neural Techniques

Myra Jones

HEALING THAT CHANGES LIVES

With over 20 years of experience spanning allopathic and naturopathic medicine, Myra Jones has developed an approach to health that is both comprehensive and deeply intentional. As a naturopathic practitioner, nurse, and licensed massage therapist, her work is grounded in a commitment to holistic care that considers not only the body, but also the emotional and spiritual wellbeing of those she serves.

As the Founder of Life’s Natural Essence Massage and Wellness, Myra blends traditional and modern natural healing methods to support clients in achieving lasting wellness rather than temporary relief. Central to her philosophy is the belief that true healing requires looking beyond symptoms to understand the root causes of imbalance.

In her interview with VBD Magazine, Myra speaks with conviction about her journey, the experiences that reshaped her understanding of care, and her commitment to helping others restore balance and wellbeing from within.

A FOUNDATION FORMED THROUGH EXPERIENCE

Myra hails from West Columbia, South Carolina. Her early life was shaped by discipline, structure, and strong expectations. Raised under the guidance of a traditional grandmother, she learned early what it meant to carry herself with strength and purpose. “My grandmother taught me to always be a lady and to be the best woman I can be, despite my circumstances,” she recalls.

Those lessons would become essential. At 17 years old, Myra was living on her own, raising her son, working two jobs, and continuing her education. Her goal

WELLNESS CARE IS SOMETHING I WANT PEOPLE TO BE INTENTIONAL ABOUT. WHAT BRINGS THEM JOY AND WHAT THEY CAN DO CONSISTENTLY EVERY DAY.

at the time was to become an attorney. “I initially wanted to be a female attorney that represented people that were wrongly convicted and did not have money for proper representation,” she reveals. She was focused and determined, but life required her to adjust.

WHEN LIFE DEMANDS A DIFFERENT PATH

While pursuing her paralegal degree, Myra began working in a nursing facility as a caregiver. What started as a means of support quickly became something more significant. After completing her studies, the reality of providing for her children meant continuing in caregiving rather than transitioning into law. At 19, she married and welcomed another son. Three years later, her life changed again when her husband was involved in a fatal car accident.

In that moment, everything shifted. She was left to raise her sons alone, navigating responsibility, grief, and survival at the same time. Yet even in that season, doors open. The owner of the nursing facility recognized her dedication and invested in her growth, paying for her to become a Certified Nursing Assistant.

She advanced quickly, working closely with dementia patients and taking on greater responsibility. “I quickly stepped into the role of head nurse at the facility where I worked. I worked closely with residents living with dementia and later became certified as a dementia specialist. During that time, I gained extensive knowledge in medication management, elderly care, and a deeper understanding of physicians and the pharmaceutical industry.”

But with that growth came discomfort. “I did not like what I was told to do for medical treatments nor how at all,” she says. That uneasiness would soon become personal.

A MOTHER’S DECISION

When one of Myra’s sons was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), now commonly referred to as ADHD, and placed on multiple medications, she watched closely as changes began to take place.

I QUICKLY STEPPED INTO THE ROLE OF HEAD NURSE AT THE FACILITY WHERE I WORKED. I WORKED CLOSELY WITH RESIDENTS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA AND LATER BECAME CERTIFIED AS A DEMENTIA SPECIALIST. DURING THAT TIME, I GAINED EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE IN MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, ELDERLY CARE, AND A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF PHYSICIANS AND THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY.

“He was not himself, so I said, ‘enough is enough.’ I chose to do what I knew was best for my son, which was take him completely off all medications and find out what was the root cause of this ADD and ADHD that he supposedly had.”

Despite resistance, she pushed for further evaluation. What followed confirmed what she had believed all along. “He didn’t have ADD nor ADHD. He was just a bored little boy that needed to be accurately accommodated.” Her son went on to excel academically and athletically, eventually becoming the youngest Navy Chief and pursuing a law degree.

That experience did more than validate her instincts. It reshaped her perspective and redirected her path.

DISCOVERING THE POWER OF HEALING

From that point forward, Myra began searching for alternatives. She wanted to understand how the body functioned beyond prescriptions and protocols. Her introduction to massage therapy marked a turning point. “My body felt better, my cognitive thought process was sharper,” she says. That experience confirmed what she had been sensing. Healing requires more than treatment. It requires understanding.

After completing massage school, Myra made a bold decision. In 2010, she left

THEY

FOUND SOME RELIEF AND I ENJOYED BEING THE ONE THAT UNDERSTOOD THEIR CONCERNS AND MADE NO PROMISES. I JUST GAVE THEM RELIEF AND EDUCATED THEM ON HOW TO CONTINUE TO LIVE BETTER.

nursing and opened her own massage business, Life’s Natural Essence Massage and Wellness. Myra has created a space where care is both intentional and deeply personal. Her services go beyond relaxation, reflecting her belief that true wellness must address the mind, body, and spirit. From rejuvenating massages to calming body treatments, each experience is tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients, promoting balance and overall wellbeing.

Her full-body massage services combine traditional and modern techniques, using soothing strokes and targeted pressure to relieve tension, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural healing processes. Each session is approached with precision and care, offering both comfort and therapeutic benefits.

Beyond hands-on treatments, Myra also offers wellness and self-care products designed to support clients beyond the spa. She takes time to educate clients, sharing practical ways to incorporate self-care into daily life. Each client experience begins with conversation. “I set time to talk about diet, doctor visits, work, stress level, family life so I can better assess the client’s needs.”

Before every session, she centers herself. “I pray for God to send the healing that my clients need to walk out of my spa, better than they came in.” And after each session, the care continues. “No client session is the same because of that.” Her goal is not just to provide relief, but to empower clients to maintain lasting wellness on their own.

Myra’s commitment to learning did not stop there. She became a Physical Ther-

apy Assistant, expanding her work to include athletes who required advanced therapeutic care. Through her practice, she began to notice a pattern. “They all had pain, inflammation, stress, and they were on some type of medication

that just wasn’t getting to the core of the problems,” she explains.

Her approach was different. “They found some relief and I enjoyed being the one that understood their concerns

and made no promises. I just gave them relief and educated them on how to continue to live better.”

She was not focused on quick fixes. She was committed to understanding the deeper cause and helping people move toward lasting change.

THE ROLE OF TOUCH IN HEALING

For Myra, touch is not simply physical. It is a form of communication. “I believe that touch creates an energetic healing within the body that medicine cannot replicate,” she explains.

She describes how touch interacts with the nervous system, influencing how the body responds. “It sends waves of positive or negative impulses to the body’s nervous system.” Through intentional application, she works to calm the body and support its natural processes. “It

HE WAS NOT HIMSELF, SO I SAID, ‘ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.’ I CHOSE TO DO WHAT I KNEW WAS BEST FOR MY SON, WHICH WAS TAKE HIM COMPLETELY OFF ALL MEDICATIONS AND FIND OUT WHAT WAS THE ROOT CAUSE OF THIS ADD AND ADHD THAT HE SUPPOSEDLY HAD.

calms the nervous system so that blood can flow, activating the lungs, kidneys, and lymph nodes to eliminate waste and decrease inflammation.”

Myra is intentional about educating her clients, especially when it comes to common misconceptions surrounding massage therapy. She explains that massage does not release toxins but rather supports the body’s natural processes. “Massage just activates the systems in the body that eliminates toxins,” she says.

Through a range of techniques, she works to gently release tight muscles that may be constricting blood flow, helping the body function more efficiently. She also addresses the widespread belief that deep tissue massage must be painful. For Myra, that is a sign of poor technique, not effectiveness. She emphasizes that deep tissue work is about reaching and releasing underlying muscles with precision, not causing discomfort, and requires a strong understanding of the body’s anatomy to be done correctly.

WELLNESS AS A WAY OF LIFE

Myra speaks plainly about what she sees as a major contributor to illness. “Stress is the culprit to almost all pain and illness.” She explains how it affects the body over time. “Stress will lock the muscles up, restrict blood flow, causing inflammation, mood swings, and brain fog.”

THEY ALL HAD PAIN, INFLAMMATION, STRESS, AND THEY WERE ON SOME TYPE OF MEDICATION THAT JUST WASN’T GETTING TO THE CORE OF THE PROBLEMS.

She is also intentional about shifting how people think about care. “I am actually trying to change the word self-care,” she says. To her, wellness should not be occasional. “Wellness care is something I want people to be intentional about. What brings them joy and what they can do consistently every day.”

She practices what she teaches. “I take time every day to pray, walk, drink my herbal tea, work out, and get out in nature as much as I can.”

Faith remains central to her life and work, rooted in the foundation laid by her grandmother. She recalls that attending church every Sunday was not optional, but part of a consistent upbringing that instilled a deep belief in God from an early age. That faith continues to guide her today, shaping both her perspective and her practice. She believes that her work is not her own, but a calling. “God heals my clients. I am just the vessel that He uses and I accept that privilege.”

A LEGACY IN MOTION

Myra’s vision continues to expand, guided by both purpose and a commitment to healing at every level. She is currently researching how to break trauma bonds through epigenetic patterns passed down through family lineages, with the goal of helping individuals release generational trauma and step into greater emotional freedom.

Her long-term plan is to grow Life’s Natural Essence Spa into a full wellness space where individuals can receive emotional, physical, and mental support in one environment. She envisions incorporating sound therapy, water therapy, nutrition centered on whole foods, and movement practices, creating a holistic approach to living a more balanced and fulfilling life for women, men, and children.

I PRAY FOR GOD TO SEND THE HEALING THAT MY CLIENTS NEED TO WALK OUT OF MY SPA, BETTER THAN THEY CAME IN.

In the immediate season, she is focused on expanding her community impact. This year, she is hosting more workshops and offering wellness education and mobility classes designed to equip individuals with practical tools for everyday health. Her commitment to service remains evident in her outreach efforts, from volunteering at a local church’s Easter event to organizing food support for 18 families during a government and food stamp shutdown.

Her work is also extending beyond her local community. She is preparing for a mission trip to Guatemala, where she will offer massage therapy to individuals who may not otherwise have access to this level of care. At the same time, she is developing initiatives to support teen mothers, including workshops that provide emotional guidance and complimentary massage sessions, as well as exploring partnerships that would help ensure reliable transportation to medical appointments.

“My biggest mission is to help as many people as I can live longer, healthier lives naturally.”

Through education, service, and example, Myra is encouraging individuals and families to make intentional choices—reducing processed foods, preparing meals at home, teaching the next generation how to care for their bodies, and choosing to live with greater awareness, compassion, and connection.

Her work is about helping people reconnect with themselves and begin the process of true healing.

One decision at a time. One session at a time.

Melissa Banks

DESIGNING EXPERIENCES AND CREATING IMPACT

Long before Dream by Design became a recognized name, before the books, the speaking engagements, and the growing media platform, Melissa Banks was already creating experiences that carried both beauty and purpose. She did not set out to build a brand. She set out to create moments— moments that made people feel seen, that transformed ordinary spaces into something meaningful, and that lingered long after the event was over.

Today, that instinct has evolved into a career spanning more than 25 years. As an award-winning master event planner, entrepreneur, and media personality, Melissa has built a multifaceted brand rooted in vision, discipline, and purpose. Her work has been shaped in part by her training under renowned wedding and entertainment expert David Tutera, while her leadership continues to expand through ventures such as Dream by Design, DMD Events, and the Black Women’s Business Expo, where she serves as visionary and co-founder.

In her interview with VBD Magazine , Melissa shares the journey that shaped her path, the decisions that expanded her brand, and the purpose that continues to guide her work.

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

“I grew up in Mississippi, raised by an incredible mother who did it all as a single parent,” Melissa recalls. “She worked tirelessly, but more importantly, she instilled in us a deep love for God and a commitment to becoming the best versions of ourselves.”

In a household of seven children, six girls and one boy, where love, discipline, and faith were constant, Melissa learned early that life would require both resilience and intention. She experienced the loss of two of her sisters, a reality that brought both grief and strength into the fabric of her family’s story. Today, at 91 years old, her mother remains a central figure, a steady presence and a living reminder of what it means to endure, to lead, and to hold a family together.

From those early years, something in Melissa began to take shape. She was drawn to designing moments that mattered. “From an early age, I found joy in creating beautiful moments,” she says. “Whether it was decorating for the holidays, setting the atmosphere for church functions, or making every family birthday feel special, I naturally gravitated toward designing experiences that made people feel something.”

What she could not yet see was that those small, consistent expressions of creativity were laying the foundation for a life’s work.

WHEN PURPOSE REVEALS ITSELF

Melissa’s journey into entrepreneurship did not begin with a detailed plan. It began with disruption. “My journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t something I mapped out. It was something I stepped into by faith,” she explains.

In 2002, after being laid off from her job, she found herself standing at a crossroads. “I knew in my spirit that I was called to decorate,” she says.

She started with décor, focusing on creating visually appealing spaces. But it did not take long for her to recognize that what she carried went beyond aesthetics. There was something deeper at work. “I didn’t just want to decorate spaces. I wanted to help bring the entire vision to life. Every detail, every moment, every experience.”

That realization marked a turning point. What started as décor evolved into full-service event planning. And in that shift, her entrepreneurial journey truly began, and Dream by Design was established.

TRANSFORMING VISION INTO IMPACT

For Melissa, event planning was never about logistics alone, but about connection. “What initially drew me into the industry was my love for decorating,” she explains. “But everything truly shifted after the first wedding I planned from start to finish. Working closely with

the couple, understanding their vision, and then bringing every detail to life, that was the moment I fell in love with event planning.”

Over time, her work expanded beyond personal celebrations into corporate events, product launches, and brand experiences. Each project brought something new, but the core remained the same.

“What I’ve come to love most is the diversity of the industry. No two events are the same, and each one allows me to take a client’s vision, ideas, and goals and transform them into a meaningful, unforgettable experience.”

That ability to transform vision into experience is what has sustained her for more than two decades.

WHEN EVERYTHING CHANGED In 2020, the world shifted as the COVID-19 pandemic brought the events industry to an abrupt halt. What had once been built on gathering, celebration, and in-person connection was suddenly disrupted, forcing many to reconsider not only their business models, but their direction.

“My original vision for Dream by Design was simple. I wanted to create unforgettable, in-person experiences,” Melissa says.

But when those experiences were no longer possible, she faced a defining moment. Like many entrepreneurs, she had to decide whether to remain where she was or move forward into something unknown. “Instead of standing still, I made a decision to pivot,” she explains. “I leaned into learning new

skills, exploring new avenues, and staying open to what was possible.”

That shift redefined and sustained her business. Dream by Design moved beyond services and into a platform, creating new pathways for connection, influence, and growth. “Today, Dream by Design has grown into so much more than event planning,” she says.

Through podcasts, training programs, speaking engagements, and authorship, Melissa extended her reach in ways that were not previously part of the plan. Her work was no longer limited to physical spaces. It now lives through her voice, her message, and her ability to guide others toward their own vision.

USING HER VOICE

Stepping into media was never about visibility for Melissa. It was about purpose, and more specifically, about creating space for others to see what was possible for their own lives. “My journey into becoming a media personality was rooted in my passion to help women truly believe in themselves,” she shares.

Her first podcast, Dream by Design with Melissa Banks, became an extension of that mission. It created a space where women could speak openly about their journeys, sharing the struggles, the breakthroughs, and the moments that shaped them into who they are today.

As the platform grew, so did her vision. “There was an opportunity to inspire on a broader level,” she explains. That realization led to The Melissa Banks Show, a platform designed not only to share her voice, but to amplify others. “This platform allows me to highlight and celebrate authors, creatives, and entrepreneurs,” she says. “It’s about amplifying voices, honoring the journey, and inspiring others to see what’s possible.”

THE POWER OF STORY

Becoming a bestselling author added another dimension to Melissa’s work, one that allowed her message to extend far beyond the limits of any single event. She is the author of five books and has co-authored

The Life I Designed: From Pieces to Peace with Cyrus Webb, which is now available for preorder on Amazon. Her books, both inspirational and business-focused, are grounded in lived experience.

Melissa’s writing is rooted in connection. “There is truly nothing like the moment of signing a book for a woman who is excited to be poured into, or being stopped by someone I’ve never met, sharing how my words have touched her life.”

PURPOSE, PERSEVERANCE, AND EXCELLENCE

Melissa does not separate her success from her struggles. She speaks openly about what it took to keep moving forward when the path was not always clear.

“I share my story because I know what it feels like to start with challenges, to question, to wonder if it’s really possible,” she says. “I didn’t get here overnight. I got here because I refused to quit. I kept believing. I kept showing up. And if my journey can help someone else see that it’s possible for them too, then that’s why I’ll always share my story.”

Even as her brand continues to expand, event planning remains at the core of her

work. It is where her purpose is most clearly expressed, not just in execution, but in the responsibility she carries to bring someone else’s vision to life. “We’re not just coordinating details, we are bringing someone’s vision to life,” she explains. “A professional planner understands what makes sense, where to invest the budget, how to negotiate, and how to use creativity to pull everything together.”

Her message to aspiring planners is direct and grounded in experience. “What you do matters,” she says. “Always lead with your client’s vision and define success through their eyes.”

WHAT COMES NEXT

Melissa Banks is not slowing down. She is building with intention. What began as a passion for decorating has grown into a brand that continues to expand across industries, platforms, and audiences. Yet at its core, the essence of her work remains unchanged. She is still creating moments that inspire, connect, and leave a lasting impression.

And in every space, she is creating opportunities for transformation, using her vision, her voice, and her experience to help others move forward with intention. Because what she builds is not limited to the moment. It continues long after.

DESIGN VICTORIOUS BY Den LITERARY

Pieces Of Us

THE SPACES WE DON’T ALWAYS TALK ABOUT

Ann Marie Bryan
Kimberla Lawson Roby
Atinuke Oladele

Some stories do not arrive fully formed. They exist in fragments, in questions, in moments that never quite resolve the way we expect them to. They live in conversations left unfinished, in relationships that shifted without explanation, and in emotions we have learned to carry without fully understanding.

Pieces of Us, the upcoming Victorious By Design (VBD) anthology, begins in those places.

Led by visionary author Ann Marie Bryan, this project does not ask for polished narratives or carefully structured conclusions. It invites something far more honest. It makes room for the parts of our lives that are still unfolding, the experiences that do not fit neatly into lessons, and the realities of love that feel complicated, distant, or incomplete.

This is not a collection of perfect stories. It is a gathering of real ones. The theme, The Spaces Between, centers on the moments most people move past quickly, the gaps where something feels unresolved, unclear, or missing. Instead of rushing toward closure, this anthology pauses. It sits in those spaces and acknowledges them for what they are, not failures, but parts of the story that still carry meaning.

That is where this project distinguishes itself. It does not require contributors to arrive with answers. It does not ask them to make sense of everything before they begin. Instead, it invites them to write from where they are, from the middle of the experience, from the tension, the uncertainty, and the quiet reflections that often go unspoken.

There is room here for the questions that linger. For relationships that changed. For moments that did not resolve the way we hoped they would. For truths that are still taking shape.

At its core, Pieces of Us is not about completion. It is about recognition. It is about acknowledging what has been, what is, and what is still becoming, without pressure, without performance,

and without the need to present a finished version of ourselves.

To support contributors in this process, the anthology will include a workshop led by Kimberla Lawson Roby, an award-winning, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, Speaker, and Podcast Host. Her guidance will offer structure, insight, and practical tools, helping writers navigate deeply personal stories with clarity and intention.

Behind the scenes, the project is being guided with care and precision. Serving as Project Coordinator, Atinuke Oladele works closely with the team and contributors to ensure that the vision remains aligned while allowing each voice to emerge authentically.

For the VBD community, this anthology is an invitation to engage with the parts of life that are still forming, to acknowledge what may feel unfinished, and to recognize that those spaces still hold value. It is also an invitation to the reader. To see themselves reflected in these stories.

To recognize that their own experiences, even the ones without clear resolution, are still valid. Still meaningful. Still worth telling. Because at the heart of Pieces of Us is a simple truth: A story does not need to be complete to matter.

As anticipation builds, what lies ahead is not a collection of neatly packaged narratives, but a body of work that reflects the complexity of love, the reality of growth, and the courage it takes to sit with what is unresolved.

For anyone who has ever felt that their story is not ready, this is your reminder that it does not have to be. You can begin where you are. You can name what is missing. You can explore what is still taking shape. And in doing so, you may discover that the spaces you once avoided are the very places where your story begins to find its voice.

If this speaks to you, we invite you to take the next step and indicate your interest at www.victoriousbydesign.com. Spots are limited.

WHAT

IS

AN ANTHOLOGY

AND IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?

Not every writing journey begins with a book. For many writers, it begins with a single piece, a story, a reflection, or a moment that carries enough weight to be shared. That is often where anthologies come in.

If you have been exploring ways to get published, strengthen your credibility, or expand your reach, you have likely encountered anthology opportunities and paused to ask whether they are worth pursuing. The answer requires understanding what an anthology is and what it demands of you as a writer.

WHAT AN ANTHOLOGY REALLY IS

An anthology is a curated collection of written works brought together under a shared theme, concept, or genre. These works may include short stories, personal essays, poetry, or narrative reflections, each contributing a distinct voice to a unified body of work.

At its best, an anthology is a carefully constructed reading experience. Anthologies may include:

l Fiction (short stories, themed narratives, flash fiction)

l Nonfiction (personal essays, life lessons, inspirational stories)

l Mixed formats (a combination tied together by a central theme)

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS

Behind every anthology is an editor or publishing team responsible for shaping the vision, selecting contributors, and ensuring alignment across the entire project.

While every project varies, most anthologies follow a structured process:

l Call for submissions (theme, guidelines, and deadlines)

l Writers submit their work

l Editors review and select aligned pieces

l Accepted writers revise, if necessary

l Editing and proofreading

l Publishing and launch

l Promotion, often supported by contributors

Some anthologies accept open submissions, while others are carefully curated or limited to invited contributors. In both cases, expectations are intentional and clearly defined.

WHY WRITERS CHOOSE ANTHOLOGIES

For many writers, anthologies offer a strategic entry point into publishing, while for others, they provide a way to elevate their brands.

Anthologies provide:

l A faster path to publication

l A manageable way to complete and submit a shorter piece

l Increased credibility and visibility

l A sense of community and collaboration with other writers

l An opportunity to amplify your voice, tone, and storytelling style

l A steppingstone toward your own full-length book

WHEN AN ANTHOLOGY IS THE RIGHT FIT

An anthology may be the right step for you if:

l You want to publish but do not yet have a full book ready

l You write effectively in shorter formats

l You want to build your author credentials

l You are growing your audience and visibility

l You are open to collaboration, deadlines, and editorial feedback

l Your story aligns naturally with the theme

WHEN TO PAUSE OR CHOOSE CAREFULLY

Anthologies can be powerful opportunities, but only when entered with clarity and intention. You may want to wait or evaluate more closely if:

l You cannot commit to deadlines or revisions

l You are not open to editing feedback

You have not fully reviewed submission

l guidelines

l You are joining solely “to be published,” without theme alignment

l You are unclear about rights, compensation, and expectations

WHAT TO REVIEW BEFORE YOU SUBMIT

Before submitting your work, confirm the following:

l Theme fit: Does your piece clearly align?

l Guidelines: Word count, format, genre, and content requirements

l Deadlines: Submission and revision timelines

l Rights and compensation: What is required and for how long

l Publisher credibility: Is there a clear and professional team

l Promotion expectations: Will you be expected to market the book

If anything is unclear, ask before submitting.

THE BOTTOM LINE

An anthology is a collaborative publishing experience that can open doors, amplify your voice, and position you within a broader literary community. The best outcomes happen when your voice aligns with the theme, expectations are clear, and you approach the process with professionalism and intention.

READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?

Victorious By Design is super excited to announce our next high-impact project: Pieces of Us, a curated anthology exploring love, growth, and healing.

We are looking for voices that reflect depth, authenticity, and purpose.

Your story deserves to be shared. If this speaks to you, we invite you to take the next step and indicate your interest at www.victoriousbydesign.com. Spots are limited.

If you are a fiction writer who enjoys relationship-driven storytelling, stay connected for other upcoming anthology opportunities. When the theme aligns with your voice, step forward with confidence.

LOVE Zone

Bert & Sheryl Boldt

STILL SAYING “I DO

Photos Courtesy of Sheryl H. Boldt

Bert and I met while I was working as a private caregiver for the elderly. One day, I brought one of my favorite ladies, Bee, to be fitted for compression stockings. Bert, a physical therapist, took excellent care of her.

In the weeks that followed, we decided to meet for dinner at his favorite Chinese restaurant in Tallahassee, Florida.

During dinner, Bert shared about the Unity Church’s teaching that all people are divine and that there is no absolute right or wrong. I then shared my faith in Christ and how His death and resurrection set me free from sin. Bert responded, “Well, at least we’re on the same page.”

I quickly replied, “We’re not even in the same book!”

Thankfully, Bert began asking questions. We started attending church together, where he learned more about the Bible and how Jesus, the Son of God, died for him. Soon after, he left the Unity Church and committed his life to Christ.

Eventually, we began discussing marriage and received premarital counseling. Because of a schedule conflict at our church, we chose to hold our wedding in 2006 at Heritage Oaks, the retirement community where Bee lived. It seemed especially fitting since Bee had been instrumental in bringing us together.

Having the wedding there was deeply meaningful to me, particularly because both of my parents had passed away. It felt as though God had blessed me with several “moms and dads” who loved and supported us. One sweet resident even asked if we were planning to have children. Since I was 50 at the time and Bert was 60, I smiled, kissed her forehead, and said, “If we do, you’ll be the first to know!”

Over the years, I’ve written several columns about Bert and me on my blog, TodayCanBeDifferent.net. Although I’ve tried to be honest about our struggles, I sometimes wonder if I’ve unintentionally

given the impression that we have an almost perfect marriage.

We don’t.

There have been times when our arguments felt so intense that I feared we would never feel love for each other again. Yet, in the height of those moments, one of us will miraculously suggest we pray together. Sometimes, as we begin to pray, I’m filled with doubt that God can truly reunite our hearts.

But He always does.

As we pray, God reminds us who our real enemy is. I am not Bert’s enemy, and he is not mine — though it can certainly feel that way. Instead, we are battling a very real and cruel foe: Satan.

When I’m tempted to disrespect my husband, remembering this changes my perspective. Each time I choose to honor Bert rather than criticize him or give him the silent treatment, I notice a shift in my heart. I feel better about him, about myself and about our marriage. I suspect Bert experiences the same when he responds with grace after I’ve acted in

a less than kind way. I’m often humbled by how faithfully Bert supports me, even in my imperfect moments.

From conversations with others, I know we’re not the only ones who benefit from the wisdom found in Romans 12:10 (ESV): “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”

I especially love the “outdo one another in showing honor” part.

Even when my feelings lag, I know Bert loves me, and I don’t want an unforgiving attitude to damage our relationship. We’ve learned that when we stop keeping score—when we stop waiting for the other person to go first in giving us the respect we think we deserve—God shows us new ways to consistently love and honor each other.

It’s remarkable how quickly our day can change when our attitudes change. This shift can be especially powerful in marriage, particularly during difficult seasons, often the very times when we most need each other’s affection and respect.

While Bert and I continue to take responsibility for our own actions, we know our marriage is still far from perfect. We sometimes slip back into old patterns, but when we do, we don’t stay there nearly as long.

Nearly twenty years have passed since Bert and I said, “I do.” There have been days when we came close to saying, “I don’t,” and even, “I quit.” Today, however, we praise God that we are both saying, “I still do.”

We thank God for all He has done and continues to do in Bert, in me, in us.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sheryl H. Boldt has loved writing ever since she saw her mother, an aspiring author, pecking at her Royal manual typewriter. That inspiration has led Sheryl to write both fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. Her articles have been

published in magazines such as War Cry and The Upper Room. Sheryl’s weekly column appears in at least thirty-six newspapers, and her award-winning story, “Grandma’s Little Helpers” (and now, soon to be a published children’s book!), delights readers of all ages.

Because of her past battles with Anorexia/ Bulimia and Depression, Sheryl seeks fresh ways to connect struggling people to God’s Word. A strong believer in accountability, Sheryl mentors women via email, social media, and accountability groups.

You can read her devotions on her blog, www.TodayCanBeDifferent.net. Connect with her at SherylHBoldt@gmail.com.

INSPIRATION Oasis

Flourishing

BODY, MIND,

There is a quiet longing in many of us. A desire not just to survive, but to truly flourish and thrive. Not in fragments, but as whole beings—body, mind, soul, and spirit. This is the meaning of true wellness, and it happens when every part of you is aligned, nourished, and rooted in someone higher and wiser than you. However, I need you to understand that true wellness isn’t found in a single routine, checkups, quick stints of happiness, or passing trends. It’s not found by exercising daily and eating good food.

True wellness is found in the quest to be whole. It’s found when we create touch points where we reach for the Father’s hem, with anticipation and full expectancy. It begins within and flows outward.

Scripture reminds us that this kind of flourishing has always been God’s desire for us.

“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” — 3 John 1:2 (KJV)

God’s heart revealed in a single verse. Above everything, He wants us to: Prosper, be in health, even as our souls prosper.

Not one without the other. Not physical health without spiritual grounding. Not spiritual growth while neglecting the body that carries you. All parts are connected in a harmonic rhythm and necessary for abundant life. Yet, we often neglect desiring an abundant life because when one zone is good, the other seems chaotic. We allow this chaos to push us into settling for an average, just enough, or an ‘at least I’m not where I used to be’ life. Thus, causing a break in the systematic flow designed by God.

Then we begin to separate our physical health from our spiritual life, and lean more toward world systems instead of Kingdom systems causing us to be off beat and scattered. Scripture is calling us back to our original beat.

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit,

which are God’s.” — 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (KJV)

The creation of you was not an afterthought. You were fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), and your body is sacred space. God is calling for every single part of us to flourish, and the world has caused us to believe that the only visual sign of flourishing is wealth.

To flourish physically isn’t about perfection—it’s about stewardship. It’s about how you rest, nourish yourself, feed your spirit, and discipline your flesh. Your gratitude for the awakening shows in how you protect your body, mind, soul, and spirit. It’s choosing to care, even in small ways, because your body is not just yours—it is entrusted to you.

Heaven has sent you to earth for a specific mission, and so many people are deserting the assignment because they cannot find their body, mind, soul, and spirit alignment. They can’t find their rhythm and their movement is based upon someone else’s beat.

There is a danger when your members are not in agreement. This is called

being unbalanced, and when you are off balanced, you lose the authority to govern effectively. You lose the will to live abundantly. Sometimes, you even open portals to principalities and wickedness that God never desired for you to embrace.

Yes, total alignment is not always easy, but it is necessary. Why? Because the mind can be a battlefield, gaining momentum with your flesh, the part of you that longs to become the leading authority. This agreement can cause conformity to things that your spirit hates. This is why we are told:

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” — Romans 12:2 (KJV)

What we dwell on and in will shape how we live, and you will never flourish stuck in dry places.

Flourishing in the mind means allowing God to gently reshape your thoughts. Flourishing in the body means allowing God to be the authority that governs your flesh. Flourishing in your soul means allowing God to have full and total control as He guides your steps. And flourishing in your spirit is to know it’s God’s spirit that’s leading the charge.

When we begin to flourish God’s way, we let truth replace fear. We learn to pause, to breathe, to reject, and to break every word curse spoken over

us. We faith fight against everything broken that has tried to remain, and we dismantle an intrusive desire to restore things too shattered to ever be whole. We long and thirst after renewal and restoration. And we wash ourselves daily by the watering of God’s Word.

“He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” — Psalm 23:3 (KJV)

Restoration is not something you force. Renewal doesn’t happen all at once. They both happen in moments—quiet ones—where you choose truth over lies. When you recognize your soul is the deepest part of you—the place where your identity and longing meet. They are something you receive. Something that you intentionally go after especially when you don’t feel its presence.

I have to warn you that there will be seasons when your soul feels tired, stretched thin, or even lost. But God is not intimidated by that. He doesn’t neglect you because of your rough seasons. He restores. He leads. He gently brings you back to yourself—and to Him. He beckons for you to be restored and renewed so that you can flourish spiritually as you remain connected to Him. Not out of obligation, but because you have built a relationship with Him that embraces and invites Him into your everything.

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide

in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” — John 15:4–5 (KJV)

So remember flourishing isn’t something you manufacture. It’s a natural result of abiding, staying connected, and returning back to God when life tries to pull you away. Because it’s in your connection with God that growth happens.

When the Lord is put first the body is honored, the mind is renewed, the soul is restored, and the spirit stays connected to the power source that keeps you aware of all things, protected, and directed. You begin to live differently. Not perfect, but intentional. Not rushed, but rooted.

“And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” — Psalm 1:3 (KJV)

That’s what flourishing looks like. Not constant productivity. Not a life free of hardship. But a life deeply planted to the point that it continues to bear fruit in its season. It looks like a life sustained by something unseen, yet undeniable. A life governed by faith and surrounded by love.

My brothers and my sisters, keep flourishing and I’ll do the same.

Resilience

R – Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges and setbacks.

E – Everybody is going through something.

S – Stand tall and acknowledge the issues that are affecting you.

I – Identify the challenges. You don’t have to run from them, embrace them, turn them into opportunities.

L – Look at them in a different light.

Ask yourself how to make it work for your good.

I – Invigorating activities can help you feel refreshed and energized. Try taking a brisk walk, dancing to music, gardening, or practicing yoga.

E – Empower yourself and take control of your life’s decisions.

N – Nourish your mind and soul with what it needs to thrive. Be creative and don’t forget to rest.

C – Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone.

E – Empathy can always help put things into perspective.

Resilience is all the things that work together to help you adapt to life’s circumstances without breaking you. Be that rubber band that pulls, stretches, and snaps back into shape.

Remember, you’ve got this!

Photo Credit: Alex Shute

FASHION & Beauty

Victorious You Collection

There comes a point when a person makes a quiet but decisive shift from uncertainty to intention. It is not announced publicly, and it does not require validation, but it changes how they think, how they move, and how they present themselves to the world.

The Victorious You (VYou) Collection emerges from that shift, addressing something far more significant—the alignment between identity and expression. As an extension of Victorious By Design, a brand built on equipping individuals to live intentionally and succeed through disciplined action, the collection carries forward a message that has already been established across media, publishing, and personal development platforms. Now, it is worn, carried, and expressed in everyday life.

“The Victorious You Collection represents alignment,” says Ann Marie Bryan, Founder and CEO of Victorious By Design. “For years, we have helped individuals clarify their purpose and walk

THE VICTORIOUS YOU COLLECTION REPRESENTS ALIGNMENT. FOR YEARS, WE HAVE HELPED INDIVIDUALS CLARIFY THEIR PURPOSE AND WALK IN IT WITH CONFIDENCE. THIS COLLECTION GIVES THEM A WAY TO CARRY THAT MESSAGE INTO THEIR EVERYDAY LIVES, NOT JUST IN WHAT THEY SAY, BUT IN HOW THEY SHOW UP.

in it with confidence. This collection gives them a way to carry that message into their everyday lives, not just in what they say, but in how they show up.”

WHERE PURPOSE MEETS EVERYDAY STYLE

The strength of the VYou Collection lies in its practicality. These are not statement pieces reserved for special occasions. They are designed for daily life and for the moments that define how we move, interact, and present ourselves. The VYou Collection offers a complete lifestyle experience that includes clothing for men, women, and children, as well as everyday home and living essentials and accessories that extend the message beyond apparel.

“We were intentional about creating a collection that goes beyond what you wear,” says Bryan. “This is about how

CLOTHING HAS LONG SERVED AS A FORM OF COMMUNICATION. IT REFLECTS PREFERENCES, ENVIRONMENTS, AND LIFESTYLE CHOICES. HOWEVER, WHEN CLOTHING CARRIES A CLEAR MESSAGE, IT MOVES BEYOND EXPRESSION AND BECOMES REINFORCEMENT.

you live. Every piece is designed to reflect identity and extend that message into your everyday environment.”

From T-shirts and hoodies to casual accessories such as bucket hats and visors, each piece is created with intention. The home and living essentials further reinforce the brand’s presence in everyday environments. Each element is deliberate, ensuring that the message remains central and unmistakable.

“Clothing has long served as a form of communication,” Bryan states. “It reflects preferences, environments, and lifestyle choices. However, when clothing carries a clear message, it moves beyond expression and becomes reinforcement.”

Statements such as “I Am Victorious By Design” are not decorative additions. They are declarations that reinforce identity in tangible ways. They support confidence, clarity, and consistency in environments that often challenge all three.

“When you understand who you are, you move differently,” Bryan notes. “This collection supports that shift and reinforces it daily.”

Over time, this reinforcement becomes significant. It influences posture, decision-making, and presence. It allows individuals to show up with a level of certainty that does not depend on external validation.

INTRODUCING IDENTITY TO THE NEXT GENERATION

The inclusion of children within the col-

lection reflects a broader understanding of identity formation. It is not something that should be postponed. It should be introduced early and reinforced consistently.

The VYou Collection Kids line supports this by offering clothing that communicates purpose, confidence, and value at a formative stage. When children are

consistently exposed to these messages, they begin to internalize them.

“We are intentional about reaching the next generation,” Bryan shares. “Identity should be built early, not repaired later.”

WHERE

IDENTITY

LEADS

The Victorious You (VYou) Collection is designed with a clear and intentional au-

dience in mind. It is not created to appeal to everyone, and it does not attempt to follow shifting preferences or temporary trends. It is built for individuals who understand the value of identity and the responsibility that comes with it.

This collection speaks to individuals who:

l Value intentional living and make decisions with purpose

l Are committed to personal and professional growth

l Understand that identity shapes outcomes

l Choose to move with clarity, discipline, and direction

These are individuals who recognize that how they show up matters. They are not passive in their approach to life. They are deliberate. They are focused. They

WE WERE INTENTIONAL ABOUT CREATING A COLLECTION THAT GOES BEYOND WHAT YOU WEAR. THIS IS ABOUT HOW YOU LIVE. EVERY PIECE IS DESIGNED TO REFLECT IDENTITY AND EXTEND THAT MESSAGE INTO YOUR EVERYDAY ENVIRONMENT.

are aware of the environments they enter and the impression they leave behind. They are not looking to blend in or be defined by external expectations. They are intentional about standing in who they are, with a clear sense of direction and a strong understanding of purpose.

“This collection is for individuals who have made a decision about who they are,” Bryan states. “They are not waiting to

be defined. They are already walking in that identity. It is a consistent expression of how they live, how they think, and how they lead.”

THIS WAS NEVER ABOUT LAUNCHING ANOTHER PRODUCT. IT WAS ABOUT EXTENDING THE BRAND IN A WAY THAT MAKES THE MESSAGE VISIBLE EVERY DAY.

MAKING THE MESSAGE PERSONAL

A distinguishing feature of the VYou Collection is the option for personalized apparel. Personalization allows individuals to take ownership of the message, to connect it more directly to their journey, and to express identity in a way that is both visible and specific.

“It’s about making the message personal, something that reflects your journey and identity,” Bryan says. This approach elevates the experience. It shifts the product from something worn casually to something represented deliberately.

A STRATEGIC EXTENSION OF A GROWING BRAND

The VYou Collection is not a separate initiative. It is a strategic extension of Victorious By Design, a brand that has established itself across multiple platforms.

The brand has built its reputation through: l VBD Magazine, which provides visibility and insight l Publishing and literary services that shape powerful narratives l Personal and professional development programs that drive growth

The VYou Collection strengthens that ecosystem by increasing visibility and providing a tangible expression of the brand’s message. It creates additional points of connection, allowing individuals to engage with the brand beyond reading, attending, or learning.

“This was never about launching another product,” Bryan explains. “It was about extending the brand in a way that makes the message visible every day.”

This level of alignment ensures that the collection contributes to the overall mission rather than operating independently of it.

BUILDING THE FUTURE

The conversation around fashion continues to evolve. As consumers are increasingly intentional about what they wear and how it reflects their values, the Victorious You Collection meets that expectation with clarity and discipline. It remains focused on a single, consistent message while offering a full lifestyle experience.

Ultimately, the Victorious You Collection serves as a reminder that success is not random. It is the result of deliberate action, a disciplined mindset, and a clear understanding of identity. When that identity is established, it is not only lived, it is expressed.

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