Today we’d like to introduce you to Diahann Johnbaptiste.
Diahann, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Born and raised on the beautiful island of St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, I always dreamed of traveling the world and being of service to others. During my younger years, I contemplated joining the military. After my undergraduate years in college, I sat through the exams to become a US Marshall, the ASVB to join the Airforce, and even tested to become a Cobb County Police Officer.
I have always had a silent pull towards service. Although I would pass the written exams, I would stop my progression in ultimately joining any of those axillaries. I use to think about the reasons why I would not ultimately pursue those opportunities, but in time it became evident as God’s plans for my life began to manifest. Today, I serve as a Clinical Mental Health Therapist and a Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
As I reflect on my personal development, education, social experiences, and spiritual awakening it is evident that life in itself is a journey. Every bit of its winding, straight, or hidden path you experience in life has existential meaning that is connected to your identity and life purpose. Being the only girl and oldest of three children to a single parent, I learned the importance of hard work, being responsible, and leadership. My mother was a driven and untiring in her work ethic and diligence in taking care of my sibling and I, so there are times when I was left to be in charge in the role of watchkeeper over my younger brothers. I learned to cook and take care of household chores at an early age, coupled with God-given gifts (e.g., being empathic, intuitive, and having a creative knack and ability to fix things) that has proven to be a blessing over the years. A gift doesn’t need a certificate, endorsement, crowd, or platform in order for it to manifest, because a person’s gifts come from God with His divine allotment. A person’s gifts, calling come without repentance (Romans 11:29), and it is a blessing from God. In fact, A person’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great men (Proverbs 17:8).
By the time I worked on my undergraduate studies at the University of the US Virgin Islands, I was convinced that I would become a psychologist. I completed my degree in psychology while working at the University. My experience working in High Education inspired me to further my education. Once I relocated to Atlanta, Ga I realized the pay structures within academic settings were not competitive so I decided to try a different industry. I worked for Sprint Sites USA for five years, earned a master’s degree in public administration, and was able to add more skills as I learned to write leasing contracts and financial tracking and reporting. After a period of time, I desire to get back in the environment of academia so I moved on and worked for Emory University with the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences as a Program Coordinator for 14 years. My time at Emory was fundamental as I worked closely with psychiatrists and various medical professionals. My torch and zeal for the field of psychology, mental health, and research was reignited. I pursued my second master’s degree in clinical mental counseling. During my studies, I launched Generation Health Alliance Foundation in 2012.
As the founder of Generation Health Alliance Foundation, Inc. (“GHA”), she has a specified interest in helping clients with traumatic histories of abuse. GHA has sponsored and hosted a variety of advocacy and outreach events, such as the annual Sexual Violence Prevention Forum, Paint, Chat Social for Domestic Violence Awareness, ARISE Prophetic Conference, feeding the homeless, provide clothing to those in need through GHA’s clothing closet, and my Sisters’ Keeper monthly process group. Diahann is an advocate for mental wellness, spiritual growth, and professional development particularly for women who struggle with identifying their purpose, identity, and God-given gifts, talents, and abilities. My work in Ministry involves teaching, praying, and ministering on a weekly basis with women who are currently incarcerated in prison. Prison Ministry has been a very rewarding experience for me as I am able to see the evidence of God’s grace and love being manifested in the lives of individuals who have made some errors in life that has caused them think there was no hope for the souls to be saved, or to be forgiven. Additionally, I serve with my local church, Rock ATL International Fellowship under the leadership of Bishop Dr. David E. Jackson where I am entrusted to lead discipleship training.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Although it may seem by this short bio that life flowed with ease for me, that is not so. Life has not been a smooth road, but I am grateful for the lessons learned, determination gained, and strength built from many challenges along the way. What I didn’t share thus far is that I became a teen mother who struggled with finding myself. There were many challenges that naturally came with being a young unwed mother and college student who lacked financial stability. As a single parent, I made the decision to work hard in order to provide great opportunities for my son. I was able to work and attend college with the help and support of my mom (Lucy Alexander) and my mom-in-law (Norma Coggins). They made sure my son (Danny) was cared for! Over the years, much like anyone else I’ve had to overcome medical setbacks. I endured a spinal injury in 2014-2015 and had to undergo spine surgery which led to a period of recovery that was physically, emotionally, and spiritually challenging! Just a year ago, I experienced another ambush on my health when mold exposure sparked some medical challenges in which lead to a hypertensive emergency while at work.
God has spared my life! I am sharing my testimony to encourage others to never give up on life. The Lord has kept me so that I can continue doing his good work. It is my pleasure to provide philanthropic services around the world as the Lord wills.
Generation Health Alliance Foundation – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Providing community outreach is the heartbeat of the work that I provide. From providing counseling services to adults and children with a mental health diagnosis to individuals seeking support through challenges, I am here for you. Over the years, I have also devoted time to volunteering in Africa, providing emotional and behavioral training to youths, and ministering in the local prison system, Generation Health Alliance Foundation, Inc. is a service organization that aims to strengthen individuals and families via ministry, mental health services, educational workshops, speaking engagements, and community outreach. GHA is a ministry for all people.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I define success as a person’s self-actualization (the realization or fulfillment of one’s talents and potentialities) of their God-given gifts, and their ability to apply those gifts to better themselves, family, and community. When you have achieved being of good service to others, leaving an inheritance to his children’s children (Proverbs 13:22), and manage to be content and live in peace is success. For some wealth may be an indication of success, however wealth without peace is misery.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.genhealthalliance.com/
- Phone: (404)317-3430
- Email: djohnba@genhealthalliance.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diahann.johnbaptiste
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
