How Dr. Sonya Alise McKinzie Is Building a Global ThriveHER Movement

Dec 30, 2025

Resilience is the throughline of Dr. Sonya Alise McKinzie’s life, and the foundation of everything she has built. A second-generation ThriveHER of abuse, single mother, and the author of 28 empowering books, Dr. Sonya has transformed her lived experiences into a global movement dedicated to helping women rise beyond survival. As the founder of ThriveHER Inc. and the visionary behind ThriveHER Magazine, launching in 2026, she has created spaces where women are seen, heard, and equipped to lead with confidence and purpose.

Recently honored as the 2025 Georgia American Mother of the Year, Dr. Sonya’s story is one of healing, leadership, and legacy. Through her work, she reminds women that while resilience involves enduring life’s challenges, it’s about reclaiming power, breaking cycles, and choosing to thrive boldly. In this HER Lounge feature, Dr. Sonya shares her journey, her vision, and the heart behind ThriveHER, a movement changing lives and shaping the future of women worldwide.

Your story as a second-generation ThriveHER of abuse is both powerful and deeply personal. How has your lived experience shaped the foundation and mission of ThriveHER Inc.?

Dr. Sonya: My lived experiences have profoundly influenced not only my journey but also the foundation of ThriveHER Inc. Coming from a background of abuse, I recognize firsthand the barriers women face and the importance of creating a supportive community. My mission has always been to turn pain into purpose, ensuring that women have a space where they can feel heard, validated, and empowered to reclaim their lives. ThriveHER Inc. embodies that vision, fostering resilience and creating pathways for healing and growth.

You’ve built a movement rooted in resilience. What was the defining moment when you realized your pain would become your purpose?

Dr. Sonya: The defining moment came when I attended a support group for survivors where I saw the transformative power of shared stories. Listening to others reflect on their struggles and triumphs ignited something within me. I realized that my experiences weren't just burdens, they were lessons that could inspire others. This epiphany encouraged me to channel my pain into advocacy and create a movement dedicated to empowering women.

ThriveHER Inc. has quickly become a global force for women’s empowerment. What core need did you see in women’s lives that inspired you to create this movement?

Dr. Sonya: I observed a significant gap in accessible support and resources for women, particularly those who have experienced trauma. Many women felt isolated and overwhelmed, lacking a community that understood their struggles. ThriveHER Inc. was born from the desire to bridge that gap, providing a platform for connection, empowerment, and education. I wanted to ensure that every woman knows she is not alone on her journey.

What does “thriving” truly mean to you, and how do you help women redefine it for themselves?

Dr. Sonya: To me, “thriving” means living authentically and embracing one's full potential despite challenges. It’s about finding joy in the journey and viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth. I help women redefine thriving by encouraging them to explore their passions, set achievable goals, and practice self-compassion. Through workshops, mentorship, and community discussions, we work together to help women articulate what thriving looks like for them personally.

ThriveHER Magazine is such an exciting milestone. What inspired you to evolve ThriveHER into a full multimedia platform?

Dr. Sonya: The inspiration to evolve into a multimedia platform stemmed from the recognition that stories and experiences come in many forms. While written content is powerful, I wanted to reach women through various mediums - events, books, speaking engagement, etc. to cater to different preferences and create a more dynamic way to connect. This evolution allows us to engage a broader audience and deepen our impact.

What types of stories, voices, and narratives will the magazine spotlight when it launches?

Dr. Sonya: ThriveHER Magazine will spotlight a diverse array of stories that reflect the multifaceted experiences of women. We will feature narratives about overcoming adversity, entrepreneurship, wellness, and mental health. Additionally, we aim to amplify the voices of women from various backgrounds to ensure representation and inclusivity. Our goal is to create a tapestry of experiences that inspire, educate, and empower.

You’ve authored an incredible 28 books dedicated to empowering women around the world. What themes do you find yourself returning to again and again?

Dr. Sonya: The recurring themes in my writing often revolve around resilience, self-discovery, and empowerment. Many of my books address the importance of healing from trauma and finding one’s voice after hardship. I explore the idea that every woman has the ability to rewrite her narrative and embrace her worth. These themes resonate deeply with my own experiences and the stories I encounter in my work.

Which of your books has been the most transformative for you personally, and why?

Dr. Sonya: While each book holds significance, I would say that The Light Within Her: A Mother's Journey from Pain to Purpose (released 11/25/2025) has been the most transformative for me. Writing it was a cathartic experience that allowed me to confront my past and articulate my vision for healing and empowerment with a focus on being a mother and entrepreneur. It reinforced my belief in the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on both me and my readers.

Congratulations on being named the 2025 Georgia American Mother of the Year. What does this honor mean to you, especially as someone who advocates for healing, strength, and generational transformation?

Dr. Sonya: Thank you! This honor means the world to me as it validates the hard work I've put into being a mother and advocate. It highlights the importance of nurturing future generations and emphasizes that our collective healing and strength can lead to meaningful change. I see it as an opportunity to further my mission, inspiring other mothers to strive for empowerment and generational transformation.

Many women face private battles while shouldering public responsibilities. What practices or mindsets have helped you stay grounded through challenges?

Dr. Sonya: To stay grounded, I prioritize self-care practices, including mindfulness and journaling. Engaging in regular mindfulness exercises helps me stay present, manage stress, and cultivate self-awareness. Journaling allows me to process my thoughts and emotions, providing clarity amidst the chaos. Additionally, establishing a strong support network of fellow advocates and friends gives me a sense of community and accountability. Understanding that it's okay to lean on others during tough times reinforces the idea that we are stronger together.

Where do you see ThriveHER Inc. and ThriveHER Magazine in the next five years?

Dr. Sonya: In the next five years, I envision ThriveHER Inc. expanding its outreach globally, impacting even more women through workshops, seminars, and outreach programs. I see ThriveHER Magazine as a leading platform that not only shares inspiring stories but also effectively addresses critical topics related to women's empowerment, mental health, and resilience. My goal is to create a sustainable community that champions women's voices and fosters a culture of support, ultimately shifting societal perceptions about women and their journeys.