Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Avis Foley.
Dr. Avis, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I always knew that I was destined for greatness. Growing up in Gary, Indiana – one of the world’s most dangerous cities, not only gave me the heart and determination to thrive through adversity, but it helped me to understand that the world I was born into would be fundamental to my testimony.
While everyone has a story to tell, there are so many unique twists in my journey that push me to be a better woman and role model every day. At three-days-old, my twin sister and I were given up to foster care due to the fact that my mother was a schizophrenic, drug-addicted prostitute.
Being raised in a foster home exposed me to a side of life that was oftentimes confusing. And while my life was not the traditional family setting, I realized that I was in a temporary situation that could have long-term adverse effects if I didn’t sharpen my state of mind. Despite the hardships, mentally I knew that I possessed the power to manifest whatever it was that I wanted in life.
I derived inspiration from those that have come before me. Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, Oprah Winfrey and Angela Davis are just a few of the women that inspired me to use my story to shape my success. These women helped me understand that mediocrity in life should never be an option.
For me my saving grace was education. After completing grade school, I enrolled at Purdue University where I began to learn more about myself and the true world we live in. Upon graduation, I was determined to pursue the highest level of education and obtained both my Masters and Doctoral degree. I consciously made the decision to not be defined by where I came from.
Over the course of a decade, I have taught at both the collegiate and primary education levels and have published two fiction novels. Currently, I am working on my first memoir. Through my writing, I purposely fuse educational elements with various life situations that people can relate to. I want, when people close my books, to desire to be better.
I am also a transformational speaker whose mission is to help others seek and fulfill whatever they desire for their lives. I hope that my words will inspire excellence, evoke action and transcend generations to come. Although my start in this world was bleak, I’ve turned my pain into passion and will not stop until I fully carry out God’s purpose for my life.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
In order to effectively gain true wisdom and knowledge in life, the road has to be bumpy! There is no such thing as a smooth ride. All of us will experience trials and tribulations that test our tenacity and challenge our fortitude. Some of the greatest struggles I’ve faced along the way include my confidence level, accepting failure, and building wealth.
With these issues, I was forced to confront who I am and who I wanted to be. I found that my mindset had to change in order for me to truly emerge. It’s always important to recognize your own power over personal struggles. I’ve used these same pitfalls as motivation to deliver on my dreams!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Bella Black Publishing – what should we know?
I am an educator, author, and transformational speaker who specializes in helping others transform their lives by enabling them to understand the power they possess to create effectual change. I am most proud that my passion for enlightenment has inspired many to surpass their own potential.
What sets me apart from others is that my success will never be quantified. Faith, fearlessness, and follow-through are the three guiding principles that I consistently employ to flourish! Limitations that have been set upon my life based on my circumstance will not come to pass.
My motive, message, and means for helping others identify their own greatness are directly tied to my purpose! Life is about taking chances. When you learn to take chances on yourself you discover who you are truly destined to become. Those that dream create life-changing opportunities for themselves. I know that I was created to live a limitless life! Settling will not (and should not) be an option!
My gifts and talents are going to take me places I’ve never dared to dream! Some books are full of surprises, others simply remain on the shelf.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My greatest mentor and support system that has contributed to my success is my brand strategist, N. Renee McFadden. She has assisted with both of my book launches, editing, and personal branding. She challenges me on numerous levels, holds me accountable and is responsible for helping me manifest my mission in life! She provides constructive criticism and gives sound advice on the various struggles I’ve encountered thus far.
In addition, Natasha has provided invaluable words of wisdom, brilliant brainstorming ideas, and long-term strategic marketing plans. She has taught me to overcome my fears of failure and to own my vision in order to accomplish my greatest dreams. Her guidance has helped me reframe problems into opportunities and conquer self-imposed limitations.
In addition, I have had several mentors from afar that have had a great impact on my life! I have paid close attention to their actions and their desire to live life in excellence. This includes Les Brown, Oprah Winfrey, Lisa Nichols, Tony Robbins, and T.D Jakes just to name a few!
Through video training, audio clips, and the talks I have gained valuable knowledge that has helped me to become the best version of myself while encouraging me to live my best life.
Pricing:
- My latest novel, Inevitable, is currently on sale for $15.99 at www.inevitablethebook.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dravisfoley.com
- Phone: 706.810.6552
- Email: dravisfoley@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/iamdrfoley
- Other: https://instagram.com/iambellablack
Image Credit:
Blair Devereaux
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
