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Shakira Hemphill Purpose + Connection Coach




31 Magazine Ladies I am so excited to introduce you to this dynamic Becoming Proverbs 31 Woman! She is the Founder of Women of Worth (WOW), Inc. – a beacon of hope for women seeking purpose and connection. Please meet Shakira Hemphill


Shakira, we greatly appreciate you speaking with us! Before we delve into our conversation, our readers are eager to learn more about you. Could you share some details about yourself?


I'm a woman on a God-Assigned mission, shaped by experiences, fueled by faith, and dedicated to serving others. A bold voice for the Kingdom of God, I hail from generations of Washingtonians, once grappling with feelings of inadequacy and rejection, wrestling with God amid life's storms.


Picture me, a young girl walking to Martin Luther King Avenue to get on the A4 or A8 bus [while] wrestling with thoughts of suicide, when suddenly, amidst the hustle of the city streets, I hear a whisper from the Divine – "You shall live and not die; you have a purpose, and you are MY DAUGHTER!" It was a moment of divine intervention, a shift that would alter the trajectory of my life forever.

Fast forward, I'm now the proud mother of an incredible 20- year-old son who doctors told me would not live past the age of 10 at their initial diagnosis BUT God. He is the joy of my life, even on the days I wish for a "return to sender" option! My journey has been shaped by a village of support, prayer, faith, tears, good and indifferent decisions, and moments of reflection - BUT truly TRUSTING GOD. 


I love laughter, high heels, experiences, and connection, and I have an eye for aesthetics - in plain terms -  I possess a keen eye for aesthetics – unabashedly feminine and unapologetically bold. But beyond the surface, I am a disruptor of the enemy's agenda, determined to see one million women boldly embrace their worth for the Kingdom of God.


With degrees and certifications from esteemed colleges and universities, I've come to understand that education isn't just about accolades – it's a divine connection to the people and purposes ordained by God. In 2012, I embarked on a journey to align my heart, intentions, and dreams with God's divine plan, birthing Women of Worth (WOW), Inc. – a beacon of hope for women seeking purpose and connection.


WOW Inc. emerged from the shadows of my struggles – a period where outward success masked inner turmoil. Seeking validation, fearing rejection, and running from God, I lacked clarity and purpose. But through surrender and peeling back layers of pain, rejection, and people-pleasing, God led me to a place of growth and purpose.

Today, as a Purpose + Connection Coach and Founder of WOW Inc., I stand as a testament to God's transformative power. Through the storms and struggles, I've emerged stronger, walking boldly in my divine assignment. And now, I'm committed to guiding others on their journey toward purpose, connection, and transformation. I am you - and you are me! 


How did you get into coaching?


Growing up, I found joy and purpose in leading and offering guidance and support to those around me - solicited and unsolicited. LOL. As I matured, so did my connection to women and my desire for genuine community. I realized that my calling was rooted in serving others and creating meaningful connections that would have a lasting impact, regardless of financial status. 

My journey took a transformative turn when I embraced coaching as my ministry. It was more than just a profession; it was a divine calling, a way to bring women and families closer to God and the purpose He has for them. 


I remember the pivotal moment when God reminded me of my identity and purpose, shifting my perspective and igniting a commitment to serve Him wholeheartedly, regardless of life's challenges almost 30 years ago. Not knowing that my commitment to Him at that moment would be met with some unexplainable and hard moments - victorious moments - but ultimately a surrendered Shakira. 


Coaching, for me, is not just a skill but a sacred gift—a means to uplift and empower others with integrity and purpose. It's about standing in the fullness of who I am and the space I've been called to occupy, leveraging my experiences to guide others toward their highest God-given potential.

One million women are waiting for a REVOLUTION. I believe in a revolution—a women's movement embracing their divine purpose, fueled by hope, love, and unwavering faith. It's about taking action, making an impact, and operating at our fullest capacity to transform communities and lives. That's why I wholeheartedly embrace this calling, saying "yes" over and over again to the work of guiding women towards their God-given destinies. Together, we're ushering in a revolution of purpose, one life at a time.



How has God guided you as a Coach in past and current seasons?


You know, one truth that resonates deeply with me is that "God is God, and He doesn't need another God, but what He has asked of us is to be the hands and the feet of Jesus. It's a reminder that God is sovereign, and He doesn't need our help to rule the universe. Instead, He invites us to partner with Him in bringing His love and light into the world.


In my journey as a Coach, I've seen God's hand guiding me every step of the way. From the beginning, I felt a stirring in my heart to lead moments of prayer, connection, and service. It was as if God Himself was nudging me forward, urging me to step into the role He had prepared for me.

One scripture that speaks volumes to me about God's leading is Isaiah 30:21 (NIV): "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.'" This verse reminds me that God is constantly guiding and directing my path, even when I can't see the way forward clearly.

In the past seasons, God has led me through moments of uncertainty and challenge, always providing wisdom, strength, and divine appointments. And in the present season, His leading is just as evident as I continue to walk in obedience to His voice and trust in His perfect timing.


As a Coach, I see myself not just as a guide for others but as a vessel through which God's love and grace can flow. It's a humbling privilege to be used by Him in this way, and I am continually in awe of His faithfulness and provision.


So, as I journey forward, I rest assured knowing that God's leading is sure and steadfast. And with each coaching session, I step boldly into His purposes, knowing He goes before me, paving the way for transformation and growth.




What role does obedience play in seeing God move in your journey?


Whew, Honey, let's talk about obedience – now that's a topic that carries some weight. You know, I used to throw around the phrase "obedience is better than sacrifice" without fully grasping its depth. But then it hit me: obedience isn't about making sacrifices; it's about a heart check. It's about how I honor my relationship with God and seize every opportunity to demonstrate that what He asks of me isn't a burden but a joy.


For me, the Bible is like a manual. Just like how I had to study the manual to pass my driver's license test, the Bible contains all the essential information I need to navigate life. It's the guidebook that illuminates the path toward fulfilling God's purpose for my life.

I'll be honest – there was a time when I ran from God. I was gripped by fear, terrified of falling short in His eyes. Back then, my understanding of God was shaped by others, and I lacked a personal connection with Him. It took a terrifying encounter during my high school years to shake me awake. One evening, while driving my Godmother’s car with friends, a man pulled a gun on us after we accidentally cut him off at a traffic light. In that moment of sheer panic, I realized just how desperately I needed God's guidance and protection in my life.


Obedience is not just a matter of following rules; it's about opening ourselves up to God's transformative power. When we align our actions with His will, incredible things happen. Obedience isn't a passive act; it's an active partnership with God, a decision to walk hand-in-hand with Him every step of the way.

In my journey, I've witnessed firsthand how obedience paves the way for God to move miraculously. It's like stepping onto a path illuminated by His divine light, where every obedient step brings us closer to His blessings and purpose for our lives.


When I surrendered my fears and insecurities and trusted God's guidance, I experienced His presence in profound ways. Doors opened, obstacles crumbled, and opportunities unfolded before me – all because I chose obedience over fear.


But obedience isn't always easy. It requires courage, humility, and unwavering faith. Yet, it's in those moments of surrender that we truly see God's hand at work, orchestrating miracles beyond our wildest dreams.


So, yes, obedience is crucial in witnessing God move in our lives. It's the key that unlocks the door to His endless love, grace, and boundless blessings. And as we continue to walk in obedience, we'll discover that God's plans far exceed anything we could ever imagine for ourselves.


How do you find the balance between staying your authentic self and not following worldly trends on social media or with your clients?


Oh, honey, finding that balance between staying true to yourself and not getting swept away by worldly trends – now that's a journey! In John 15:18-19 MSG, we're reminded to be in the world but not of the world. It's like walking a tightrope, isn't it? We're called to navigate the hustle and bustle of everyday life while staying rooted in our faith and purpose.


God didn't create us to blend in with the crowd. He crafted each of us with unique gifts, passions, and purposes. And let me tell you, when He made you, He had a plan in mind – a purpose far more significant than any fleeting trend or social media craze.


For me, finding that balance means taking a step back when I feel the pull of comparison or the weight of imposter syndrome creeping in. It's about recognizing that likes, follows, or trends don't define my worth. Instead, it's rooted in my identity as a beloved child of God.

I've learned that people crave authenticity – they want the real me, scars and all. So, I've prioritized doing the inner work to confront my fears, insecurities, and past traumas head-on. Therapy has been a lifeline for me, helping me shed the layers of doubt and self-limiting beliefs that held me back from embracing my true self.


But finding balance isn't a one-time thing; it's a daily practice. It's about surrounding myself with people and content that uplift and inspire me while being mindful of how I show up in the digital world. And through it all, I trust that God's guiding hand will lead me on the path He has carved out just for me.


There is a delicate dance of authenticity and navigating the ever-changing social media landscape and client expectations.


As I walk this path, I remind myself that authenticity isn't just about being transparent; it's about aligning my actions and words with my core values and beliefs. It's about being true to myself, even when the world seems to pull me in different directions.


When I feel the pressures of conformity or the temptation to chase after fleeting trends, I lean on my faith as my anchor. I remind myself that God created me uniquely, with a purpose that transcends the superficialities of social media metrics or industry standards. It's a grounding truth that allows me to resist the urge to mold myself into someone I'm not. 


But let me tell you, finding this balance hasn't always been easy. There have been moments of doubt where I've questioned if staying true to myself would cost me opportunities or acceptance. In those moments, I've had to dig deep, relying on my faith and the support of loved ones to stay the course.


And you know what? Whenever I choose authenticity over conformity, I'm met with a sense of peace and fulfillment that no amount of likes or followers could ever provide. Because at the end of the day, it's not about fitting into a mold or meeting someone else's expectations – it's about honoring the unique masterpiece that God created me to be.


So yes, finding the balance between authenticity and the pressures of the world around us is a continuous journey. But it's a journey worth taking, knowing that with each step, we draw closer to living out our true purpose and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those around us.


Do you have any coaching courses or events in the works that we can look out for? 


Fresh off the heels of our inaugural live event post-pandemic, The Promise Experience™ took center stage during Women’s History Month, uniting over 88 extraordinary women who courageously embraced God's promises and allowed His divine spark of purpose and power to ignite within them.


But the excitement doesn't end there. Keep your eyes peeled for our upcoming Vision Dessert Book Release Experience this May, where we'll delve deep into the journey of healing and embracing God’s promises amidst the storms of uncertainty, pain, and, yes, even moments of anger towards God. It’s a raw and honest exploration that promises to leave you renewed and strengthened as we share excerpts from “The Promise Devotional.” 


Then, mark your calendars for the WORTHY Experience, a soul-stirring summer event crafted to empower and uplift every woman who graces its threshold. We'll unpack the essence of “WORTHY,” exploring how you shoulder the gifts, faith, and purpose as a woman while you stand boldly in our worthiness as women of faith. Get ready to unleash your inner courage and claim your divine inheritance.


In October, prepare to be transported to the “Woman At The Well Experience,” an intimate overnight retreat for 12 women ready to release, re-imagine, and refresh in God’s purpose for their lives. The deep wells of divine wisdom await those thirsting for spiritual nourishment and renewal.


At the heart of our mission lies a commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and support within our community. That's why we're beyond excited to announce our Back to School Prayer & Book-Bag event—a testament to our dedication to mentorship, giving back, and uplifting the next generation.


And let’s not forget our weekly WOW Wednesday Sister Call, a soul-nourishing gathering every Wednesday at 6:30 AM EST on our WOW Line. It’s the mid-week morning inspiration that you did not know you needed. We come together to deepen our faith and disrupt the enemy’s agenda TOGETHER - because one can chase a thousand, but two can chase two thousand, so our strength knows no bounds.





What mindsets have kept you grounded in your entrepreneurial journey?


Oh, darling, let's dive into the mindsets that have grounded me on this entrepreneurial journey. One truth that anchors me is the unwavering belief that I am worthy of the love and attention I so freely give to others. It's a lesson that hit home when a wise coach pointed out my tendency to fall into a "Martyr syndrome," always putting others' needs before my own, even at the risk of my well-being.


But you know what? I've realized that self-love isn't selfish; it's essential. It's about recognizing my worth and treating myself with the same kindness and compassion I extend to others. It's about letting go of the need to save everyone else constantly and instead focusing on nurturing and loving myself - including me in the saving!


Romans 12:2 (NIV), says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will."


This scripture speaks volumes to me, reminding me of the power of renewing my mind daily. It's about shedding old mindsets and embracing a new way of thinking – one rooted in self-worth, grace, and God's unconditional love.


So, as I navigate this entrepreneurial journey, I hold onto the truth that I am worthy, loved, and deserving of all the goodness life has to offer because I serve a GOOD GOD who is always looking to show us His GOODNESS. And by renewing my mind with this truth each day, I step boldly into my purpose, knowing I am exactly where I'm meant to be.


A couple more mindsets that have kept me grounded and thriving in this entrepreneurial adventure.


First, I've learned to embrace the beauty of resilience. Life throws curveballs, love, but it's not about how many times we get knocked down – it's about how fiercely we rise each time. This mindset reminds me that setbacks are simply setups for comebacks. It’s a Bounceback moment. The Bounceback Queen enters the room, and God gets to stand in my weakest moments. With every challenge, I see an opportunity for growth, strength, and resilience.


Another mindset that's been my North Star is the power of abundance. This was particularly hard for me as one who grew up in lack. I was subjecting myself to past trauma versus rewriting the story. In a world that often whispers scarcity, growing up experiencing evictions and lack made it hard for me to see the abundance and the biblical principles of wealth until I began to dig into the word. I meditated on the word, and I chose to tune into the symphony of abundance that surrounds me. It's about shifting from a mindset of lack to one of abundance – believing that there's more than enough success, love, and opportunities to go around. This mindset frees me from the chains of comparison and scarcity, allowing me to celebrate the successes of others while confidently pursuing my own dreams. I stand on the word when God says He will supply my EVERY need! 


With these mindsets – anchored in FAITH, resilience, and abundance – I embrace this entrepreneurial journey, knowing I am equipped to face whatever comes my way WITH God.


What advice would you give to other trailblazing Christian Entrepreneurs struggling to live a  Proverbs 31 women’s Lifestyle?


When God created us, He poured His very essence into our beings (Genesis 1:28 AMP). Inside each of us lies greatness, waiting to be unleashed. So, to my fellow Trailblazing Christian Entrepreneurs struggling to live a Proverbs 31 women’s lifestyle, I offer this advice:


First, seek God for kingdom divine strategy. Your plans may seem flawless, but if they're not aligned with His will, you'll end up overwhelmed and off course.


Second, be gracious towards yourself. It's easy to extend grace to others but forget to give ourselves the same kindness. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup. Keep your cup full, serving from the overflow, not depletion.


And remember, "What Is Written Is Real™." Words hold power (Habakkuk 2:2), shaping our reality and transforming the atmosphere. So, let God's promises guide your path and infuse your journey with purpose and power.


In times of struggle, stand before the mirror and affirm your worth:✨

"I give myself permission to be...

I am worthy to receive and give love.

I overflow with love.

I choose me.

I am beautiful, bold, and brilliant."


At Women of Worth (WOW) Inc., we're on a mission to help women of faith debunk unworthiness, deepen their faith, and step into their destiny. Our purpose is clear: to empower women to fearlessly live out their God-given purpose, changing the world one woman at a time as she walks in her worth.


So, embrace your purpose fearlessly, my dear entrepreneur. Let your why define your essence, shape your destiny, and propel you forward with unwavering courage. Together, let's impact our communities and the world, one fearless step at a time. Remember, you are not alone in this journey – we're in this together, walking side by side as we fearlessly pursue our divine calling.



Are there any scriptures, declarations, or affirmations that have helped you stay grounded during challenging times?


During my most challenging seasons, I wrote a lot. I find that journaling gives me a place to scribe, and often cry my heart out to God on paper as well. One of my most challenging seasons came about five years ago, and I used my journal as the space to talk to God and to find solace in His word. I was mad at God in that season, and God opened my eyes to see that I was the apple of His eye, and even in my brokenness, He was still God. I recognized that my brokenness wasn’t the separator from God but the connector to God. 


From that time in my life, I now have a 31-day devotional, “The Promise,” which reflects my posture in that season about God’s promises. 


I have Scripture Buckets on my phone based on various topics, and when I am going through a hard season, I pull on those scriptures. One thing I do with scriptures is make the scriptures personal and replace the pronouns with my name. 


I learned that my most challenging seasons were the seasons that stretched me, surrendered me, and saved me - funny, right? Here are a few scriptures that anchored me in those seasons: 


  • Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her. | Luke 1:45 NIV


  • Open up my understanding to the ways of your wisdom, and I will meditate deeply on your splendor and your wonders.” | Psalms 119:27 TPT


  • “The Lord will always lead you and satisfy your needs in dry lands. He will give strength to your bones. You will be like a garden that has plenty of water, like a spring that never goes dry.” | Isaiah‬ ‭58‬:‭11‬ ‭ERV‬‬


  • “But now, this is what the Lord, your Creator says, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you [from captivity]; I have called you by name; you are Mine!” | Isaiah 43:1 AMP


My daily affirmations that I speak are a reminder that all things are working together for my good and keep me grounded leading up to the challenging seasons and the seasons that are curated with less. 


Daily Affirmations to Set My Day and Help Me In the Tough Times™

  • What is for me will not pass me by 

  • What passes me by is not for me, and I thank you.

  • I can do all things through Christ, that strengthens me 

  • I am not alone on this journey, and all things work together for my good. 

  • I am called and positioned to let God do exceedingly, abundantly, above all, I can ask, think, or imagine.  

  • I am someone’s answered prayer, and someone is chasing after me to be mine. 

  • God winks at me repeatedly and is intentional about the purpose inside of me. 

  • I am blessed to be a blessing, and the world needs our gifts to activate transformation and share LOVE!


Thank you so much Shakira for sharing your heart.

Follow Shakira on her social IG: @TheWomanOfWorth


Where you can connect with her WOW Devotionals and community of support in your journey with the Lord.



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