We had the good fortune of connecting with Latoya Mathews and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Latoya, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
I have quite a few that make me happy, but if I had to choose one it’s encouraging others. Encouragement was something that I didn’t receive, and I want to make sure that at least one person I encounter daily leaves with it. It makes me happy knowing that someone left with something they needed at that moment. Encouragement brings me happiness and I want to make sure others have it too.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am the owner of Victoriously Free and the Latoya Mathews brand, which is a transformational wellness platform, where I help women find beauty in the ashes of post-abortion. This was never something I thought I would be helping women accomplish because it’s always been such a sensitive topic. One day while attending a conference I asked a question in front of everyone about business and shared my story of abortion. The amount of love from the women who stated they too had terminated a pregnancy and thanked me for sharing my story afterward was overwhelming. That was the confirmation I needed to move forward in what I know God had called me to do. There have been many times that I have questioned this decision out of fear of what people may think and judge me for what I’ve done. That little voice in the back of my mind just won’t let me walk away. Since stepping out in faith, I have had so much support from so many amazing women. The community that has been formed around this has blown me away. I’m always encouraged to not give up and to keep pushing. I am so excited that I have the opportunity to create a safe space where women can heal, not be judged, and have someone along their side who understands. To create a platform where they can find hope, healing, and a little dose of heaven. I know what it felt like to be overcome by shame, guilt, and regret. I know what it felt like to be alone at a time where I needed support. Now I get to create that for other women and letting them know they are not alone.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I am located just north of Atlanta, so any local spots to visit are there. Of course, some spots to visit would have to be The Battery at Suntrust Park, High Museum of Art in Atlanta, and then definitely making our way Fish Thyme located in downtown Acworth to have dinner. The food is so amazing. I don’t really hang out so I don’t know the most interesting places, lol. I’m pretty much a homebody, and this reminds me that I need to get out more (shakes head) lol.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to first recognize my husband for helping me through my healing journey and pushing me to overcome the insecurities I saw in myself. Also, to my Pastor, who set my healing journey in motion when I needed it the most. To the community of women God has placed in my path to encourage me and wouldn’t let me quit. To my business coach who told me that it’s taboo because no one is talking about it. Last but least, to my Heavenly Father who has loved me through all of this.

Website: www.latoyamathews.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelatoyamathews
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelatoyamathews

Image Credits
Mecca Gamble McConnell