We were lucky to catch up with Sonya McKinzie recently and have shared our conversation below.
Sonya, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
As a woman who has faced numerous challenges, including overcoming the generational curse of abuse and the effects of PTSD and PCOS all while being nurtured in a single-parent household, I draw my optimism from the understanding that I am not defined by my past or the difficulties I’ve encountered. My positive outlook is further bolstered by my robust support network, the individuals I motivate, and fellow survivors of abuse. My optimism is fueled by the myriad goals and dreams I’ve realized, which are a testament to my faith and the strength of my family bonds.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Originating from Brunswick, GA, Sonya McKinzie is a devoted single mother to an extraordinary 13-year-old, her daughter being her greatest gift from above. A survivor of 24 years, Sonya has triumphed over domestic violence, suicidal struggles, PTSD, and anxiety. She embodies hope, proving that one can break free from the chains of abuse. In 2003, Sonya’s journey led her to Marietta, GA, where she reclaimed her power from a once-feared abusive relationship. Her transformation from a perceived victim to an unwavering victor has made her a pillar of support and a source of inspiration for many who aspire to overcome their adversities and end the cycle of abuse.
On her path to self-discovery and growth, Sonya pursued tranquility within. Driven by a desire to flourish within a realm of faith and advancement, she sought new career paths, only to find that her educational background was a hurdle in her professional journey. However, she remained resolute and pursued higher education, embracing the transformative power of learning—a treasure that remains untouched by any abuser. She acquired degrees in **Business Administration (A.A.)**, **Business Management (B.A.)**, and **Human Services Counseling (M.A.)**, with minors in **Addictions & Recovery**, and secured five certifications in fields centered around human welfare: **Victims Advocacy**, **Corporate Leadership and Management**, **Call Center Management**, **Six Sigma (Green Belt)**, and **Human Resources**.
Beyond her scholastic pursuits, Sonya also attained a **Masters in Communication**, became a certified life coach, and emerged as a prominent figure in the **Marsys Law Movement**, which influenced legislation to change how victims are alerted upon the release of their abusers from custody. As an author of 16 books, predominantly focused on healing and overcoming the aftermath of abuse and trauma, Sonya contributes a vast array of knowledge and expertise to her role as an advocate.
As the trademark owner of “ThriveHER” and the founder and Executive Director of **ThriveHER Incorporated** (formerly known as Women of Virtue Transitional Foundation), established in February 2016, Sonya led with spiritual insight and a clear mission to offer candid, authentic, and transparent insights into the signs of domestic violence and abuse. Her efforts have connected the public, survivors, victims, and their families, amplifying the voices of those who have overcome domestic challenges (often labeled as victims). The organization orchestrates various events annually to gather funds for empowerment initiatives and services, forge professional partnerships, and support related organizations (such as Rainbow Village).
In a heartfelt tribute to the elderly, Sonya initiated the **Elderly Outreach** in Brunswick, GA, in memory of her grandmother, to address the needs of the aging population. Together with a close-knit circle of family members, she provides support to the elderly by crafting handmade lap-throws and fulfilling the wishes of roughly 25 senior residents. Additionally, Sonya McKinzie conducts one to two **Girls of Virtue Empowered (G.O.V.E.)** workshops each year, aimed at empowering young girls between the ages of 6-15.
I am also embarking on becoming a Visionary Author of my first Book Collaboration, the Blueprint of a ThriveHER due to be released June 2024. The books include 11 testimonies from women that have survived and now are thriving beyond their trauma.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In the span of twenty-seven years, I have cultivated pivotal qualities such as attaining a series of academic degrees that have been crucial to my continuous learning and self-empowerment. These achievements shine as a symbol of possibility for women who have endured similar trials, illustrating that transitioning from a survivor to a THRIVEHER of abuse is the start of a journey toward remarkable accomplishments. I am also filled with pride for my forthcoming honorary doctorate in Humanitarianism, set to be conferred in June 2024, and for the recognition of ThriveHER Day by the city of Brunswick, Georgia in 2023, which honors the fight against domestic violence. My counsel to anyone is to never place limits on what you can achieve and to always push the boundaries of your comfort zone to foster ongoing growth.
If you knew you only had a decade of life left, how would you spend that decade?
From a business standpoint, I am engaged in a battle to reclaim my voice, which is also my trademark. Several larger companies have been unlawfully leveraging my trademark to establish businesses that diverge from my original intent. ThriveHER was created not only as a legacy for my daughter but also as a potent symbol for those who have moved beyond the labels of victim and survivor to truly thrive in their journey beyond adversity. As a small nonprofit, we often face the challenge of larger entities trying to intimidate or take advantage of us. Despite our size, our organization is formidable, and we are committed to fighting vigorously to maintain our trademark where it rightfully belongs. We are actively seeking partnerships with businesses and legal firms that are prepared to stand with us in this just cause.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thriveher.me/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThriveHERInc/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveherinc/
- Other: https://wordpress.com/home/thebloggingthriveher.wordpress.com
