We had the good fortune of connecting with Geneva D. Ashley and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Geneva D., any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
To give up is not an option for me, simply because the driving force is the simple fact that what I carry is far bigger than I am. Therefore, I look beyond what I feel, I pray for the fortification, tenacity and strength to press pass what I see or feel in order to reach those in the masses that are connected and those that I am destined to connect to.
Their encouragement, freedom and greater version of themselves, may very well be in what I have to offer, because I endeavor to leave an impactful influence so positive that one may be forever changed.
Even in the moments that I take a breather, I will not give up!
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a multifaceted personality and talent who loves to create platforms of opportunities for women, I get most excited when I see a woman I have had the privilege of coaching and mentoring to find her path, take to the runway and “take-off” in pursuit of her own dreams and goals!
Whether it be personal, spiritual or professional development, I am “purposed to pour”, and it’s no easy feat.
Because I am a woman in ministry as well, I intentionally strive to “shake the status quo” and burst through the glass ceilings so eloquently placed as obstacles, which I believe sets me apart. I move with an unapologetic approach and “girlfriend” wit to edify those I connect with, while helping them realize the power they possess within to achieve those things their heart desires. And in the areas that they experience doubt or fear, it is my responsibility to help “her” unveil her greater.
Because I am purposed to help move that individual from a place of self-doubt to self-confidence, and from “fear” to fearless. And in the moments she may become consumed with the distractions that may very well hinder her or cause her to veer off course, I serve as that “light” to guide her back toward her initial journey.
I distinctly recall being faced with obstacles, adversity and betrayal that made me feel like I wanted to let go of it all! I thought it would be better to “fall back” into the shadows and just let the pain pass in private.
See, I’d allowed myself to form friendships and business connections that were unhealthy, and it caused me to become regretful and disappointed in myself for not seeing the signs of deception sooner. Yet as discouraged as I’d become, and as hurtful as the situations may have been, I had to exemplify grace toward myself that I so freely gave to others. It wasn’t easy and the heartache was very real, but in those moments I realized, the opinions of others were not powerful enough to stop the gifts that God had placed inside of me, and there was a world filled with so many others that were waiting and anticipating what I carry.
I began to shift my mindset by being intentional in my conversations with God. I remained open to what I felt and I was honest in my conveyance of those emotions to Him, while simultaneously working with women from all walks of life that continued to come, and I strategically met them where they were. No judgment and no melodramatics, but simply exemplifying love, patience and support where she needed it most.
The lesson was taught in a way that was filled with raw emotion and heartbreak, but it was very necessary. I learned that pain carries purpose, and forgiveness is essential to growth. And even when people are not for you, they are necessary. Everyone plays a part in what we are called to the earth to do.
I want the world to know that women are very powerful and intricate vessels in the earth. And as a woman of power and compassion, I strive to execute with a spirit of excellence in all I set out to do, and I invoke the same to all I am entrusted to assist!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were in the area, here is what we would do:
Breakfast Cafes
Barbecue Lunches
Seafood Dinners
Priscilla Schirer Awakening Experience
Comedy Show
Boutique Shopping
Private Flight to Houston for a Luxury Branding Photo Shoot Experience
Stay overnight for a Girlfriends Spa Day
Private Flight back for a rooftop brunch
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I need to say thank you to the women of my anthology, Shattered to Shine! Because of this phenomenal and courageous compilation, I am more determined and motivated than before to empower and educate women to find their voices again after trauma.
Now to my amazing husband who I often affectionately refer to as “Mr. Ashley”, for being my best friend, ministry and prayer partner all the while covering and challenging me to raise the bar without limits! There are not enough words in this lifetime to express how grateful I am for the consistency and unwavering support!
To Tiffany, Eliye, Keltii and Alexandrya! Thank you for being the brightest rays of sunshine that never fails to eclipse any darkness that may attempt to creep up.
Website: https://www.mgdecree.com
Instagram: SHE is Geneva D. Ashley
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/geneva-d-ashley-17b374222
Facebook: SHE is Geneva D. Ashley
Youtube: @sheisgenevadashley
Image Credits
Kimazing Photography Deangelo Rose