GWBN Magazine 2026 Calendar Features
- GWBN Magazine
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Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine was created to celebrate 12 women visionaries who making a great impact in their communities and living in their purpose. The calendar feature will highlight their books, products, or services. All women will be part of the Women's History Month Celebration in the March 2026 Spring Edition.
January 2026 Calendar Feature
Dorene Lewis

DORENE LEWIS is an Indianapolis Native, a Mother And Grandmother.
Some of her great career accomplishments are as follows:
89 -1991-Began Opening Up For Famous R&B Artists And Comedians.
1991-1998 Professional NFL Cheerleader Cheered Seven Consecutive Years.
2001-To The Present Prophetic Anointing Flow Of The Holy Spirit Praise Dance Ministry.
2002- Appeared As a Guest On The National Global TV Ministry Show It's Time To Praise the Lord" on TBN.
2015- Established My Company Indianapolis Artist Alliance Production Company.
2015 -Directed And Produce Professional Singing Competition.
2017-2018 Wrote, Directed and Produced The Stage Play "Dance Miss. DORENE"
2018- Graduated and earned my certificate license as an Ordained Minister.
2018-2019 Crown Ms Circle City Indy Queen.
2019- Graduated In The World Summit With All Nations. Certificate In Biblical prophetic Ministry School In Dance.
2020-Release Book Titled-Miss DORENE.
2021-Won I AM H.E.R International Award For Prophetic Praise Dancer Of The Year.
2001-Won Ms. Sunburst Indiana State Queen.
2020-Dancer For The Hit Stage Play "Who Stole My Church Hat?"
2022- Open Up For Gospel Artists In Dance.
2023-Dancer in The Stage Play, "The Carol"
2023-Newest Book Title-" ARIELLE: Mystery Hidden Within.
2024-Won I am H.E.R International Awarded for Praise Dancer Of The Year.YouTuber Of The Year.
Has Appeared In Gospel Magazines Traveled To Minister In Dance. at conferences, Events, Parades, Halftime Shows, And Ministries Across the United States. Both of my Books. Can Be Order On Amazon And Barnes And Nobles. Go to in the search box And Type In My Name Dorene Lewis. Books Will Pop Up.
YouTube Channel. DORENE LEWIS DANCE.
Name Of My Ministry. Prophetic Anointing Flow Of The Holy Spirit Praise Dance Ministry, Indianapolis Artist Alliance Production Company.
Follow on Facebook at DORENE LEWIS
Subscribe to YouTube Channel at
February 2026 Calendar Feature
Dr. Deborah Allen

Finding one’s inner voice can be a liberating, awe-inspiring, and transformational experience. Fashioned to help the masses find their “fierce voice”; is the dynamic professional, Deborah Allen.
Deborah Allen is an Author of 47 books, 72X best-selling & 35X international best-selling author, ambassador, speaker, certified coach, cleric, and CEO/creative founder of The Fierce System; a multifaceted liaison specialty, centered around helping others to both find and develop their voice. Having been trained by world-renowned NSA motivational speaker, Mr. Les Brown, Deborah understands the importance of strategy, development, and credible mentorship; traits she seamlessly translates to her growing clientele.
Deborah has trailblazed a credible path for those she serves. She has served as Pastor of Lighthouse Apostolic Ministries of God Church, for the last 25 years; and is the Executive Director of the nonprofit organization, L.A.M. Ministries, Inc. She’s the Visionary/Trademarker of “BECOME HER TO BE HER”, women ministry. Deborah is also The Lead Ambassador for International Missions Department of PAW Organization. She ascended to the ranks of an Ordained Bishop and Affirmed Apostle in the summer of 2022.
Matching servant leadership with an incredible respect for higher learning, Deborah is a Certified Life Coach; member and speaker of the National Speaker Association Speaker (NSA) and Black Speakers Network (BSN). Her conglomerate The Fierce System, is comprised of many platforms, including: Fierce TV, Radio, and blog; as well as Fierce Voices Program; where she mentors, develops, and creates strategic alignment between clients, and their true life’s calling. She’s the Visionary of Igniting The Flame Publishing, CEO of Visionary of Coaching & Consulting Group LLC and Deborah Allen Enterprise. Deborah graduated on October 29,2022 as Doctor of Philosophy - Christian Leadership & Business from Cornerstone Christian University in Atlanta, Ga. She also earned her second doctorate, a Doctor of Letters degree, from Mainseed Christian University in Lawrenceville, Georgia, on October 19, 2024. Finally, she was honored to receive in March 2025 the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joseph R Biden Jr, USA 46Th President.
Deborah proudly attests that women are at the heartbeat of all she does, and that it is her desire to see them be strong, fierce, and know, that they can truly achieve their dreams, and walk in purpose. Deborah is a valued asset to her communal body, and a loving member of her family and friends.
Dr. Deborah Allen: Energizer. Entrepreneur. Organizer. Servant Leader.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/deborahallenfie
Websites:
March 2026 Calendar Feature
Kimberly Johnson

I, Kimberly Johnson, have been a registered nurse for the past 14 years. I graduated from Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) on May 8, 2010. I passed boards on April 1, 2011. In February 2015, I graduated from South University Online (based in Savannah, Georgia) with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN).
My work experience is in personal care and home health. I have worked with Medicaid, Medicare, Private Pay, and Veteran Affair clients who are eligible for either home health or personal care services. I have taught Personal Care Aide (PCA) classes and one Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class.
I am a June 2018 graduate of the Maryland University of Integrative Health (Now known as Notre Dame of Maryland University”s School of Integrative Health) based in Laurel, Maryland, where I obtained my master’s degree in therapeutic herbalism.
I am the owner of Elements of Healing LLC in Portsmouth, Virginia which opened for business on October 24, 2016. It is a home-based company where I make herbal products by hand with undivided attention and love. The products can be used for issues such as headaches/migraines, eczema/psoriasis, muscle/joint pain, pain during breastfeeding, and more.
Elements of Healing LLC started out servicing the local Hampton Roads, Virginia area and has since expanded to servicing individuals across the country by shipping products nationwide and providing consultations by phone.
Company Website: https://www.elementsofhealing2016.com/
April 2026 Calendar Feature
Dr. Lashonda Wofford

Dr. Lashonda Wofford is a dynamic award-winning entrepreneur, community advocate, philanthropist, and transformational leader. As the founder and driving force behind multiple successful ventures—including All Bets On Me Academy, EmpowerHer Legacy: Purposeful Collective, Akins Global Diagnostics Laboratory Solutions, and former owner of Akins Helping Hands, a thriving seven-figure home care company based in North Carolina—Dr. Wofford has established herself as a powerful force in both business and personal development. She has recently added the title of Freelance Writer, further expanding her influence across industries.
Passionate about empowering others, Dr. Wofford created the All Bets on Me platform on Facebook, where she inspires individuals to invest in themselves and overcome life's challenges. Her journey, marked by resilience and determination, has led her to achieve numerous goals despite significant adversities. With a PhD in Christian Education, she stands as a beacon of success, particularly for women of color, breaking barriers and paving the way for others to access the same opportunities she has created.
Dr. Wofford's achievements are numerous and impactful. She is an accredited certified instructor and Founder of The All Bets On Me Academy, in partnership with Purpose Zeal Academy. She holds certifications as an Executive Leadership Coach, Life Recovery Coach, Mental Health Counselor, Transformational Coach, Art Therapy Practitioner, Positive Psychology and Trauma-Informed Coach.
Dr. Wofford’s influence extends into selfless service. She volunteers with the Cape Fear Valley NODA (No One Dies Alone) Program, where she serves twice a week or as needed, either at the hospice house or the intensive care unit. Her role is sacred and compassionate: sitting with individuals who are transitioning from life, ensuring they do not take their final breath alone or without the presence of someone who cares.
This deeply personal mission is a true reflection of her heart and her unwavering commitment to humanity, dignity, and faith in action.
In addition to her professional and community impact, Dr. Wofford’s voice and message have reached global audiences through significant media coverage. She has been featured in major outlets including:
The New York Times, CBS, FOX News, CW Jersey Desk, Daily Leader, The Chronicle Journal, Ohio Pen, The Penzone, The Pilot News.com, 4 Washington, The Floridant, Delhi Scan, Daily Times Leader, Influencer Daily, Black Diamond Chronicles Magazine, Gleaming Dreamer Magazine, Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine, Professional Pulse Magazine, Wholistic Healing Magazine, Voyage Raleigh, Voyage Atlanta, Professional Pulse Magazine just to name a few. Billboard Features include Time Square New York City, North Carolina, Atlanta, Texas, Nashville TN, Delaware just to name a few.
Deeply rooted in her faith, Dr. Wofford and her husband are active members of Mt. Zion AME Zion Church, where she strives to live out God's plan for her life by serving others with humility and love. In her personal life, she cherishes quality time with her family—especially her grandchildren—and prioritizes self-care through reading and peaceful moments of reflection. Residing in North Carolina, Dr. Wofford continues to inspire, uplift, and lead by example, leaving a legacy built on faith, love, and transformational impact.
📘 Facebook: @lashonda.wofford.7
📸 Instagram: @drlashondawofford
💬 Join All Bets On Me Facebook Community On Facebook
📘Link to Author’s Page on Amazon:
🌐 Website: www.drlashondawofford.com
May 2026 Calendar Feature
Michelle Pasha-Person

Michelle Pasha-Person better known as ChelleyP is a Best Selling Combat Veteran Author, transformational speaker, and the visionary behind The Transformation Experience. Her work is rooted in faith, resilience, and the undeniable power of God to transform broken places into purpose filled lives.
Through her book, “The Caterpillar Prospective”, ChelleyP shares a raw and redemptive journey of survival, healing, and becoming. What began as personal pain evolved into a prophetic message of hope illustrating how seasons of isolation, pressure, and struggle are often the cocoon God uses to produce transformation.
As a combat veteran, ChelleyP understands discipline, endurance, and sacrifice but it was God’s grace that reshaped her story beyond survival into significance. Her message centers on Agape love, accountability, spiritual maturity, and learning to see others through the lens of grace rather than judgment.
Through speaking engagements, empowerment experiences, vendor events, and community outreach, ChelleyP creates spaces where people are reminded that:
It could’ve been me. It should’ve been me… BUT GOD.
Her voice challenges hearts, shifts perspectives, and invites others to stop throwing stones and start extending hands because transformation is not about perfection, it’s about grace.
ChelleyP continues to inspire audiences to embrace their process, trust God in the cocoon, and walk boldly into the life they survived to live and to remember; DO NOT BE ASHAMED BE REMEMBERED
Book available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Caterpillar-Prospective-Chelley-P/dp/B0FBHQPY6C/ref=sr_1_1
June 2026 Calendar Feature
Michelle Joy Brown

Michelle Joy Brown is a Texas-based abstract artist whose work is a vibrant testament to the power of resilience. Before picking up the brush full-time, Michelle spent two decades dedicated to the helping professions, serving as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Michigan, a professional speaker, and an adjunct professor of psychology.
While she no longer practices as an LPC, her extensive experience in counseling/psychology and human behavior remains the foundation of her creative perspective. In June 2021, Michelle’s life took a profound turn when she suffered an ischemic stroke. Facing a long road to recovery, she turned to a tool she had often recommended to her own clients: art. What began as a therapeutic exercise to regain mobility quickly evolved into a dedicated career. Today, she marks her "strokeversary" every June as the starting point of her transition into the arts.
Now a member of the Visual Art League of Lewisville, Michelle specializes in abstract landscapes and florals, using bold colors and fluid movements to express complex themes through visual media. Known to her community as the "Mommy Artist," she documents her progress, her transition to a whole-food plant-based lifestyle, and her creative process through her Substack publication, The Resilient Canvas.
In addition to her studio work, Michelle provides therapeutic art sessions specifically designed for survivors of debilitating illnesses. She uses her unique dual-background to help others navigate the practical and emotional challenges of recovery through creative expression. Michelle’s story is proof that the rebuilding process can lead to significant professional and personal reinvention, and that the canvas is always open for a new chapter.
Artist Name: Michelle Joy Brown
Business Name: The Resilient Canvas
Specialty: Abstract Acrylics, Collage, and Therapeutic Art for Survivors
Email: [michellejoybrownstudios@gmail.com]
Social Media: [https://www.facebook.com/michellejoybrownArtist
Website/Substack: https://theresilientcanvas.substack.com/
Support & Gallery: https://ko-fi.com/theresilientcanvas
Location: Lewisville, Texas
July 2026 Calendar Feature
GWBN Magazine 7th Year Magazine Anniversary
Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine mission is to empower and support women towards their growth within their industry. We believe in supporting one another and networking to assist you in reaching your overall mission of building a larger customer or client base.
It important we encourage, inspire, and uplift one another.
Purpose: Our primary purpose is to be supportive of women in our local communities, in
different states across the United States, and even in other countries Internationally. Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine is here to support women in various industries of business by taking them to a higher level of growth in their various industries towards a successful future.
Vision: Our vision is reach people by sharing the gifts and talents from women in various industries who want to market their books, products, or services.
Growth Women's Business Networks (GWBN) Magazine is a publication and platform dedicated to empowering, supporting, and promoting women leaders across various industries. The magazine highlights female visionaries, entrepreneurs, and business owners who are making a significant impact in their communities.
Core Mission and Features
Empowerment: GWBN Magazine focuses on fostering the growth of women by sharing their accomplishments and providing a platform to celebrate their leadership.
Spotlight Opportunities: It offers "Front Cover Spotlights," "Influential Women in Business & Leadership Spotlights," and features for various roles including Authors, Health & Wellness Coaches, Nonprofit Founders, Ministry Leaders, and Media Hosts.
Calendar Features: The magazine produces an annual calendar that highlights "women visionaries," featuring their books, products, or services throughout the year.
Advertising and Sponsorship: Businesses can Advertise Their Brand or choose Sponsorship Packages that include digital magazine pages,
blog spotlights, and video promotions.
Participation and Contact
Submission Requests: The publication actively seeks individuals to feature. Interested leaders can contact us at GWBNMagazine@gmail.com
for opportunities.
Digital Presence: GWBN Magazine maintains a strong presence on Facebook and Instagram, and publishes digital editions.
Gentlemen's Den: While focused on women, the magazine also offers a specific spotlight for male authors, business owners, entrepreneurs to showcase their work.
Are you looking to submit a feature for an upcoming edition, or are you interested in advertising opportunities for your business?
Send email to GWBNMagazine@gmail.com
Facebook: Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine
Instagram: GWBNMagazine
YouTube: @GWBNMagazine
Email: GWBNMagazine@gmail.com
August 2026 Calendar Feature
Stephanie Gives-Winckler

Mrs. Stephanie Gives-Winckler is an educator, children’s book author, illustrator, stylist, and fashion designer. She was born in NYC and completed her high school education at Central Islip High, Long Island, N.Y. She is a graduate of Midlands Technical College and is currently an educator at Kathwood Preschool, Columbia, SC, under the four (4) year old preschool program. A dream deferred, Stephanie created the children’s book, “The Best Girlfriends Ever”, in 2015 to honor her daughter, Tiffanie Nina Simone, who passed away at the age of 14 from the rare disorder, Rett Syndrome that effects 1 in 10,000 live female births. The reason for the birth behind all of her creativity is to celebrate young girls, women, and to celebrate The Power of Friendship, which can change the trajectory of lives for many children.
Stephanie Gives Winckler is available for speaking engagements, conferences, school visits,
art/ fashion shows.
Her two children’s books, The Best Girlfriends Ever and Mommy and Me Under The Magnolia Tree can be purchased through Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Best-Girlfriends-Ever-Stephanie-Gives/dp/1514639378
You can reach Mrs. Winckler through her publicist, Danyell Flowers, of Maven Media Management.
Website: mavenmediamanagement.com
September 2026 Calendar Feature
Trailblazer and Visionary Leader
Dr. Lashonda Wofford

Dr. Lashonda Wofford is the embodiment of purpose in motion—a philanthropist, award-winning, multi-time international author and speaker, and a Certified Award-Winning Transformational Leadership Strategist and Faith-Based Master Empowerment Coach whose life’s work is anchored in service, excellence, and unwavering faith. Her journey is not defined by titles alone, but by impact—measured through transformed lives, restored hope, and empowered leaders across business, ministry, and community spaces.
At the core of Dr. Wofford’s life and leadership is God—at the beginning, the center, and the end of it all. Her faith is not performative; it is foundational. Every endeavor she touches flows from spiritual alignment, intentional obedience, and a deep commitment to steward her gifts responsibly. This spiritual grounding is what allows her to move seamlessly across multiple roles and industries while maintaining clarity, humility, and excellence in every assignment she accepts.
As a visionary author, Dr. Wofford has penned and contributed to numerous impactful works that address healing, purpose, leadership, resilience, and generational transformation. Her writing is known for its raw truth, prophetic insight, and practical wisdom—meeting readers at the intersection of pain and purpose. As a sought-after speaker, she delivers messages that are both catalytic and compassionate, challenging audiences to rise beyond limitation while providing tools to sustain growth and alignment.
Beyond the stage and the page, Dr. Wofford is a committed philanthropist and community advocate. Through her nonprofit and business initiatives, she has championed causes centered on women’s empowerment, leadership development, mental wellness, family care, and legacy building. She believes true leadership is not about visibility, but responsibility—and she consistently shows up ready to serve with excellence, integrity, and grace.
What makes Dr. Wofford’s story especially compelling is her ability to be multifaceted without fragmentation. She is a strategist and a servant, a leader and a learner, a powerhouse and a nurturer. This balance is sustained not only by faith, but by the unwavering support of her husband of 17 years, Mr. Travis Wofford. Celebrating their anniversary this September, their marriage stands as a living testimony of partnership, purpose, and covenant alignment.
Mr. Wofford is a man of great faith, integrity, and strength—one who deeply loves his wife and family and stands firmly as her supporter, protector, and partner. Together, they exemplify what it means to build legacy as a team, demonstrating that greatness is magnified when purpose and partnership walk hand in hand.
Above all, Dr. Lashonda Wofford is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who leads first at home. Her life reflects that success is most meaningful when faith leads, family is honored, and service remains the mission. In every room she enters, she brings excellence—not because of self, but because of God. And through that posture, she continues to rise, inspire, and leave an undeniable mark on every space she is called to serve.
Facebook: @lashonda.wofford.7
📸 Instagram: @drlashondawofford
💬 Join All Bets On Me Facebook Community On Facebook
📘Link to Author’s Page on Amazon:
🌐 Website: www.drlashondawofford.com
October 2026 Calendar Feature
EmpowerHer Legacy
Founder Dr. Lashonda Wofford

EmpowerHer Legacy; Purposeful Collective is more than an organization—it is a divine assignment brought to life through obedience, alignment, and an unwavering commitment to purpose. Birthed from prayer, vision, and lived experience, EmpowerHer Legacy was created to be a sacred space where women could heal, grow, lead, and rise together without apology. As the collective celebrates another year of alignment, growth, and purpose, it stands as a living testament to what happens when God is trusted and women say yes to the call.
Founded by the phenomenal Dr. Lashonda Wofford, EmpowerHer Legacy was not built from ambition, but from assignment. Dr. Wofford recognized a deep need for a community where women could bring their whole selves—faith, vision, questions, and calling—and be supported through every season of becoming. What began with just three women stepping out in faith has now grown into a powerful collective of eight extraordinary women walking boldly and unapologetically in their God-given purpose.
EmpowerHer Legacy is comprised of God-fearing women who are business owners, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and bestselling authors—women who are not only building successful businesses, but also shaping lives and strengthening communities. These women are united by faith, integrity, and a shared commitment to impact. Together, they are building legacy, fostering meaningful relationships, navigating transitions with courage, and creating spaces where collaboration replaces competition.
At its core, EmpowerHer Legacy is about connection and cultivation. It is a place where faith is strengthened, vision is clarified, and purpose is nurtured. Members walk alongside one another through life’s transitions—celebrating victories, weathering challenges, and offering support rooted in love and accountability. The collective is intentional about building businesses that honor God, serve people, and leave generational impact. Every conversation, collaboration, and strategy session is grounded in alignment and excellence.
This year’s celebration honors not just growth in numbers, but growth in depth. Each member has shown up with commitment, vulnerability, and courage—choosing to do the work required to evolve personally and professionally. EmpowerHer Legacy has become a sacred sisterhood where women are seen, heard, challenged, and celebrated.
A special note of gratitude is extended to the members for entrusting Dr. Wofford to coach, mentor, guide, and help develop the assignments God has placed within them. It is an honor she carries with humility and reverence, understanding that stewardship of vision and leadership is a sacred responsibility.
The remarkable women of EmpowerHer Legacy include: Dawanna Alexander, Dr. Karon Graves, Marcy Jessup, Valorie Jackson, Dr. Bajie Nobles Garrett, Deidra Watson, Carol Andrews King, Nicole Shoffner, and Catina Goldston.
As EmpowerHer Legacy moves forward, it remains committed to walking in obedience, building in unity, and leading with faith—proving that when women align with God and one another, legacy is inevitable.
Facebook: @lashonda.wofford.7
📸 Instagram: @drlashondawofford
💬 Join All Bets On Me Facebook Community On Facebook
📘Link to Author’s Page on Amazon:
🌐 Website: www.drlashondawofford.com
November 2026 Calendar Feature
Tafadzwa Mazibuko

Tafadzwa Mazibuko is an Award-winning inspirational author, international speaker, and International contributing writer. She is an award-winning social entrepreneur and social media influencer. She is a founder of Tafadzwa Mazibuko and associates. She is a graduate of Bachelor of Accounting (Honors) from Africa University. She has written four books, “The dream that was worth fighting for!” The Dream! and The King’s dream for His daughter! and The legacy of my father. Dreamer’s Daily Planner is a personal development tool published annually and distributed in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and other countries. She has also published ‘In pursuit of King’s dream prayer journal. Three of her books, The Dream”! The King’s dream for His daughter! and The legacy of my father! were approved by Gauteng Basic Education for school libraries.
Tafadzwa has been featured on Television, One Gospel channel on shows: Your Playlist with Carly Fields, Revelations, Soul Sessions, Christmas Sessions, and Feed Your Soul. She was featured on Love World, Talking Solutions, and Forgive and Move On. She has been featured on radio programs: SA FM with Kanye Magubane, Rainbow FM with Pastor George, Praise 102.5, and Pheli FM with Solly.
She has also been featured in the movie, Publish’D Afrika, Hallelujah, Enthuse, and Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine. She has been featured in Mt Kenya Times. She is a contributing writer for the award-winning magazine Growth Women’s Business Network based in the United States of America and Christian Women Living Magazine. She has contributed to Thrive Global, Addicted 2 Success, and Cup of Faith. She has been awarded a certificate of excellence by CWENA and a long list of best non-fiction by the SABA Book Awards 2020. She was a nominee for the 2021 Readers Choice Award by TCK Publishing company. She was awarded an African Author’s Honoree Award 2021 for her two books: “The dream that was worth fighting for! And “The King’s dream for His daughter!” Tafadzwa received an award as a socio-entrepreneur in the category Pillar of Community and Outstanding Female Leader awards under the leadership and Social Entrepreneurship Category in Zimbabwe below 50 by Vessels of Virtue 2021. Tafadzwa was a nominee of the African Sociopreneur of the Year 2024 and was an award winner in 3rd place for Social Media Influencer Challenge 2024.
Tafadzwa has been a keynote speaker at the Woman Rise Annual Summit hosted by Star Conferences in Paris France on the topic, “You are a winner, woman arise and say No to violence.” She has spoken at Beautiful Rubies events in South Africa and spoken on topics like,” Love the woman in the mirror enough and say no to Violence.” My book, “The King’s Dream for His Daughter” inspires women to find themselves in or after an abusive relationship. She has spoken at a conference in Zimbabwe on entrepreneurship. She is a Gender Based Violence facilitator and life coach and supports
survivors and victims. She is a personal development coach.
LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tafadzwa-mazibuko-8377112/
Amazon page: https://www.amazon.com/author/tafadzwamazibuko
YouTube channel: The dream that was worth fighting for! - YouTube
Website: www.tafadzwamazibukospeaks.co.za
December 2026 Calendar Feature
Pele Hunkin

Fa'apepele Hunkin, known as "Pele" (meaning "Sweetheart" in Samoan), is a living testament to strength, resilience, and love. Raised in the villages of Vaiusu and Pesega by her grandparents, Fa'apepele and Leauma Auva'a, during her childhood, Pele's life was shaped by the lessons of faith, perseverance, and community that her family instilled. Pele's upbringing was grounded in cultural traditions that continue to influence her life today.A devoted mother of five—Dominique, Nicole, Dean Jr., Victoria, and Isabella—and grandmother to Princess Milan, Pele's family is her core. Her resilience journey began when she enlisted in the United States Army in 1994, eager to serve her country and carve her path. Her military career, which included multiple deployments, instilled in her a deep sense of duty and leadership. She retired as a Sergeant First Class, having served in various roles, and the discipline and strength she developed through her service.
Tragedy struck Pele's life when she lost her husband, Deanne Ignacio Tajalle, in a fatal accident while he was working as a government contractor in Iraq. As a widow raising Nicole, Dean Jr., and Victoria, Pele's world was shattered, but her unwavering faith and family support helped her stay strong. This experience deepened her belief that no matter the hardships, we have the power to persevere, love, and live with purpose.
Pele's world, however, shifted dramatically when she lost both of her parents. Their passing was pivotal in her life, challenging her in ways she never anticipated. Their sacrifices and teachings had always been her guiding force, and their absence deepened her resolve to carry their legacy forward. Pele's faith and resilience were tested like never before in this moment of profound loss. Yet, it was through this grief that she discovered an even greater depth of perseverance, knowing that her parents' love and values would continue to guide her.
In 2023, Pele faced one of her greatest battles—a heart attack caused by 80% artery blockage, requiring a life-saving stent placement. Just a year later, she endured three strokes and life-threatening internal bleeding. Despite these setbacks, Pele's faith only grew stronger. Instead of allowing her health struggles to define her, she used them as a source of empowerment, reminding others that hope and strength are always available, even in the most challenging times.
Alongside her military service and personal struggles, Pele has become an accomplished Author, Speaker, and Founder of Pele Inspire – Embracing Authentic Love. Her memoir, HEART OF A WARRIOR-The Humble Journey of a Samoan Warrior, shares her journey of survival and strength, offering a powerful message of courage and resilience. She has contributed to eleven best-selling anthologies and has spoken at prestigious events, including the Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month observance at Shaw Air Force Base and Fort Jackson. Trained by motivational icon Les Brown, Pele is a global speaker, empowering people to face their challenges with faith and hope. Pele's life philosophy is simple yet profound: "Stay Humble, Stay Positive, Stay Strong, and Always Stay Encouraged." Through her books, speeches, and personal testimony, she inspires others to embrace their purpose, rise above obstacles, and live authentically.
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If you would like to learn more about Pele Hunkin’s
books and services, visit her website at www.peleinspire.com