Meet Monique Ray

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Monique Ray. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Monique, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

There’s a unique strength in being the only one in the room who looks like you. As a Black woman navigating spaces where I didn’t see myself reflected, I quickly realized that the only way to thrive was to focus on who I truly am, not on how others perceived me. My mission in life is clear: to bring unconditional love into the world, to transmute negativity, and to serve as a guide for awareness and awakening. That purpose became my compass, reminding me to stay grounded and committed to what I’ve been created to do.

I’ve learned to release the judgment of others and to let go of the need for external validation. Once I’ve put my best forth, I trust the process and the outcome. It wasn’t always easy. Walking away from my first marriage—a place of verbal abuse and disaster—was a pivotal moment. I knew I deserved better, and that realization set me on a path of self-discovery and growth.

I didn’t wait for the world to give me permission to evolve. I sought out situations that challenged me to grow, and I surrounded myself with people who had the wisdom I needed to expand. It wasn’t about proving anything to anyone but myself. I connected with mentors, individuals placed in my life by the universe, and I did the inner work, quietly but persistently. I crawled, clawed, and sometimes ran my way out of addiction, abuse, and the mindset of lack and adversity.

In the end, I learned to thrive not because I became like anyone else in the room, but because I embraced exactly who I am. By focusing on my purpose and showing up with authenticity, I’ve learned that true success isn’t about fitting in; it’s about standing tall in your own power and using that strength to serve the world around you.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I am a Sacred Feminine Warrior, called to bring freedom and healing to women through my work. My business, Pathway to Freedom, is a reflection of that mission—empowering individuals, especially women, to reclaim their power, embody their true essence, and step boldly into their journey of self-discovery.

As a lightworker, women’s circle facilitator, and ceremonialist, I create sacred spaces for transformation. With a doctorate in clinical and spiritual recovery, counseling, and interfaith studies, I weave together ancient wisdom and modern healing modalities to support deep, lasting change. My expertise spans energy work, hypnotherapy, sound therapy, guided meditation, breathwork, and shamanic practices—all aimed at helping those I serve connect with their inner truth, align with their divine purpose, and experience a profound sense of peace, love, and joy.

What excites me most is witnessing the awakening that happens when women step into their Sacred Feminine Warrior energy—when they reclaim their voices, their hearts, and their spiritual power. I guide them through a journey of deep healing, helping them embrace their sacredness and live from a place of authentic strength.

I’m excited to share that I am launching several new offerings to further this mission:

The Sacred Feminine Warrior 8-Week Coaching Program: A transformative journey for women ready to step into their warrior energy, heal, and rise.
The Sacred Masculine Warrior Program: Designed for men to connect with their divine masculinity in a healthy, empowered way.
The Warrior School: A holistic, advanced program for those who have completed the 8-week courses, offering deeper training in healing, energy work, and spiritual growth for both men and women.
I invite those seeking transformation, healing, and empowerment to join me on this sacred path, as we awaken the warriors within and create lasting freedom for ourselves and the world.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back on my journey, there were three qualities that made the most impact on my growth and transformation: forgiveness, integrity, and spiritual training.

Forgiveness was key, not only for others but also for myself. Holding onto past hurt, resentment, or anger only weighed me down and kept me from moving forward. When I learned to forgive—deeply and wholeheartedly—I unlocked a profound sense of freedom. My advice to those early in their journey: practice forgiveness as an act of self-liberation. Let go of grudges and recognize that forgiveness doesn’t mean condoning harmful actions; it means refusing to carry their weight.

Integrity has been a guiding principle in everything I do. Living in alignment with my values, being true to myself, and standing by my word has given me clarity and strength, especially when things were challenging. To cultivate integrity, I suggest constantly checking in with yourself: Are your actions matching your intentions? Are you living from a place of authenticity? This is where true power comes from—knowing you’re walking your talk.

Spiritual training gave me the tools I needed to face the challenges that life presented. Through my studies in energy work, meditation, shamanic practices, and other healing modalities, I was able to deepen my connection to the divine and navigate life with a sense of purpose and grace. For those starting their journey, I encourage investing in your spiritual growth. Seek out mentors, practices, and communities that resonate with you, and know that this investment will pay off tenfold.

My advice to anyone just starting out: Don’t give up. Your journey will have its ups and downs but keep moving forward. Extend yourself grace, just as you extend it to others. You won’t get it perfect every time, and that’s okay. And above all, invest in yourself—whether that’s through personal development, spiritual practices, or seeking support when needed. You are worth the effort, and the rewards are immense.

How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?

A challenge I’m currently facing is balancing the role of a full-time caregiver for my mother, who is dealing with progressing dementia, while also developing and preparing my rebranded business for its launch. It’s a deeply emotional journey to be present with her as she slowly forgets who I am, all while guarding my heart—not closing it, but preparing for her eventual departure.

At the same time, I have to stay grounded and neutral when engaging with clients who need my attention, care, and expertise. It’s a delicate balance between personal grief and professional commitment. I strive to be present in each moment, both for my mother and for those I serve, knowing that both require my heart, but in different ways. This season of life is teaching me profound lessons in patience, resilience, and love.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.yourpathway2freedom.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdraypresent
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1pathwaytofreedom/