Meet Onicka Griffin

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

Onicka, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

My purpose came unintentionally actually! I was in an unhealthy relationship for 13 years. The last 2 years of that relationship I was married to my abuser. During that time, I used writing as a coping mechanism where I would imagine a happy and healthy life for myself and my 2 sons. Both of my sons were born on holidays, the oldest on Halloween and the youngest on April Fools’ Day, which happened to also be their due dates! Writing became my source of refuge which birthed my children’s book series titled -The Holiday Boys®️- A Creation Of Teachable Lessons For Children. Named after both my sons, who both happen to be born on holidays. My purpose became sharing my books with families and sharing my testimony to educate and inspire anyone who has or is suffering from the negative effects of domestic violence.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

As a children’s author, survivor of domestic violence, and mental health advocate, I am driven by a profound purpose: to inspire hope, healing, and resilience in others. My journey began with a personal triumph over adversity as I was in an abusive relationship for 13 years. This fueled my passion to create positive change. I poured my heart into writing as I used that as a coping strategy to deal with the day to day struggles, I was experiencing during that time.

The Holiday Boys®️ book series, is a testament to the power of unexpected blessings. Through my children’s books, I aim to empower children with essential life lessons on brotherhood, friendship, community awareness, bullying awareness, the importance of family and many other socio-emotional topics not taught in the traditional education system. These stories not only entertain but also educate, helping young minds develop into compassionate, emotionally healthy and responsible individuals.

But my impact doesn’t stop there. As a survivor of domestic violence, I am committed to using my voice to support those affected by this trauma. I proudly donate a portion of my book proceeds to initiatives that work tirelessly to end domestic violence. In addition, as co-owner of Gifted Enterprises LLC, a mental health agency located in Hampton, VA, I am dedicated to providing vital support services to individuals and families navigating mental health challenges. We celebrated our agency’s 5-year business anniversary milestone recently, which is a testament to our unwavering commitment to this mission. We are excited about our community partnerships, enabling us to expand our reach as we continue to deliver vital mental health support to those who need it the most.

My story is one of hope, resilience, and determination. I believe that everyone deserves to live a life filled with purpose, joy, and wellness. Through my work, I strive to inspire others to rise above adversity, find their voice, and shine their light for the world to see. My hope is to continue being a source of hope and encouragement for those suffering from the negative effects of domestic violence and abuse.

Check out our website to learn more about The Holiday Boys®️ at www.theholidayboys.com. You can find The Holiday Boys®️ book series on Amazon.

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, three areas of knowledge that impacted my journey of healing were:

1. Becoming more self-aware. I gained the ability to evaluate myself, forgive myself and accept my story, without comparing my journey to someone else.

2. I learned that I wasn’t alone. I was introduced to community support and a network of individuals who collectively aided in my healing journey.

3. I was educated about domestic violence, trauma and the correlation between mental health and wellness.

I would advise anyone who is suffering from the negative effects of domestic violence that they are NOT ALONE. I would tell them that there is support out there, they can experience a wonderful life, free from abuse and that they should not feel ashamed of their experiences. I would advise them to work on themselves, this could be working out, rediscovering what they were passionate about before the abuse, taking interest in a new hobby, writing in a journal or talking to a therapist or a trusted friend or family member. Lastly, I would let them know that they are one of a kind and worthy of love and respect.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

The most impactful thing my mother did for me was always being my biggest cheerleader. Who needs girlfriends when your mom is your biggest supporter?!!

The most impactful thing my father did for me was to always believe in me and my abilities. He always supported me with bringing my dreams and aspirations to fruition. He always spoke life into me and always aided me in achieving my goals!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.theholidayboys.com and www.giftedenterprisesllc.com
• Instagram: @theholidayboys and @giftedenterprisesllc
• Facebook: The Holiday Boys and Gifted Enterprises LLC

Image Credits

Not applicable