Today we’d like to introduce you to Alicia Alexander.
Hi Alicia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born in the island of Antigua to a mother that exemplified strength, courage, and endurance. She was a police officer, which was rare at the time. My grandparents operated a village bakery, and was successful. My love for my family is unconditional. My admiration for my family shaped my thought process. I wanted to have my own little shop/store and at the time I was not familiar with the word entrepreneur.
I wanted to be in a position where I could make a contribution, be hands-on, have my own creations, set up my store, and make money. At the age of ten, I had my first makeshift street store/tray. At night I would sit under the street light, under the watchful eye of my mother, and sell candies, popcorn, gum, chocolate, and items made from local produce such as tamarind and raspberry.
As shy and reserved as I was, I participated in church and school activities not by choice but mandated by my mother. My heart told me I was a leader, a superstar and I could accomplish anything in life.
However, before I was at the age to really express myself my innocence and voice was stolen. My dreams really became dreams and that is all they would amount to, and my heart stops speaking to me.
I completed high school and the local college where I studied Electrical Engineering. Still I had no hope, only a routine life. Often I would sit in the front yards and look at airplanes flying in the distance and my thoughts drifted to wherever these flights were going one day I hoped to get the opportunity to get on a flight and just go.
I finally got the opportunity in 2009 and migrated to the US where I attended college and earned my BS in Electrical Engineering. However, the odds appeared to be against me and not being discouraged I moved forward, eventually marrying, and starting a family. Years later, I returned to college and earned my Master’s in Project Management.
Society saw me thriving but all I was doing was surviving and I still did not realize it was a setup.
I migrated to Atlanta with my family with the hopes that a new beginning and new environment would free me and indirectly lead me to what I was feeling and the healing I needed.
While attending a women’s retreat, I heard a young lady’s presentation, and immediately years of uncertainties and confusion finally became clear. I was to use my experience, tell my story, and influence lives.
In 2020, when the pandemic occurred. I was ill and in my quiet moment, I felt called to speak, to educate, to move out of my own way, and to allow God to do his will. Chit Chat with the Journey Sisters and She Forgave became a thought, then a reality with an emphasis on forgiveness.
I heard the voice of forgiveness. I asked God to forgive me, I forgave myself, and then anyone that offended me. Over the years, I continued to learn, grow, discover more about myself, and share my story without shame. The fire to live on purpose was reignited.
This interview would not have happened had I not regained my confidence, rediscovered my voice, removed the mask, and become a student of my school of forgiveness.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road had speed bumps and rocks yes there have been challenges. However I discovered years ago that is easy to overcome the hiccups and bumps if I stay focused on the opportunities and blessings rather than focus on the challenges. I see a lesson in all obstacles, and as a result, I am better prepared for the next because there will always be obstacles. The idea is but entrepreneurship is not as glamorous as it appears at least in the beginning. The journey requires hard work, dedication, consistency, and the support of like-minded individuals.
One of the biggest challenges I dealt with was self-doubt. It took me a long time to vocalize that I was my biggest problem. My stagnancy was due to fear.
My relationship with God and myself, my desire to make a difference in the life of other individuals are delightful and all I needed was a glimpse. A changed mindset, speaking and confronting my pain, and acknowledging I was worth every good thing and blessing was huge. Even bigger, God blessed me with a son that even at a young age, poured into me directly and indirectly and became my biggest supporter and continues to be. He gave me the enthusiasm to move forward.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I did not have an opportunity to actually utilize my engineering degree and instead worked in a Financial Institution which I did for quite a few years. In banking and my community, I earned the respect of my customers, and meaningful relationships built on loyalty and accountability was developed. In that role, I was able to able to educate on finance but customers took a more personal liking to me and shared stories that resonated with me and I in turn shared best practices. However, a thought continues to plague me.
As a woman who grew up in a society where children were to be seen and not heard, family secrets were to stay that way.
I was greatly troubled by the thought. If I was given the opportunity to express myself, how would my life have turned out?
How many more individuals are dealing with such pain of silence? Thinking that they are alone and no one really cares to even listen.
Therefore I decided that a change was needed and what pivotal role would I play. My life was already about service but not in the capacity I would like for it to be. Could I really be the voice for the voiceless?
I therefore decided to venture out on my speaking and coaching platform.
I coach individuals through the path of Forgiveness and engage in discussions and forums that address trauma, abuse, forgiveness, freedom, and finance.
I invite individuals on my platform “Chit Chat with the Journey Sisters” to tell their stories, speak their truth based on experiences, and reach our audience from a place of transparency and genuine care.
Additionally, my platform gives my guests an opportunity to share their ministers as well.
I am most proud of my obedience to His calling. I understood the assignment, and I will do my best to fulfill.
What sets me apart is I am a Forgiveness Coach. Forgiveness freed me and can do the same for anyone.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I do not believe in luck, just like I do not believe that the sky is the limit; it is just a target. I believe in using wisdom and operating on the discerning spirit that was purposed in me. I believe in faith, and anything is possible with a changed mindset, removing the blinders and operating with the best interests of others in terms of service versus being gainful.
My situation, including the obstacles, have shaped me to be morally and ethically grounded. Integrity and my love of life is unmatched. I consider myself a Custom Made Black and Beautiful, on a purpose-filled journey.
I am told that I have a stern, no-nonsense deamour but I am the most humble, fun-loving indiviual you will come in contact with.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheforgave?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicia-alexander-62a81ba3
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@alialexander8527?si=K1yPHDmp_4bn2Kwm
- Other: http://www.primerica.com/aliciawalexander
https://www.facebook.com/alicia.alexander.79677?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Image Credits
Francisco Flores
