Every month, I have the privilege of highlighting phenomenal individuals making waves in their communities through “Must-Follow Minorities: Amplifying Voices, Empowering Change.” These changemakers are leading the charge for the Kingdom, reminding us all of the incredible power in our shared humanity. I’m beyond excited to introduce this month’s inspiring set. Let’s lift up their stories and stand behind their missions!
Elevating minority voices is essential. This not only highlights diverse perspectives but also promotes inclusion and propels social progress. These individuals are not merely influencers; they are change-makers who inspire and lead by example.
Without further ado, here are some must-follow Christian minorities making a significant impact across various fields:
Min. Dr. Gayle Jones
Dr. Gayle Jones, MA, FCN, RN is a speaker, author, registered nurse and masters prepared health educator. She has spoken on blog-talk radio and various speaking platforms locally, nationally, and internationally. As an engaging inspirational speaker, she receives raving reviews from her audiences. As a teacher of health wisdom in the classroom, business settings, church, or other speaking platforms, Dr. Jones impacts audiences with transformational outcomes and infectious positive energy. Her unique preparation as a baccalaureate-trained registered nurse and doctor of naturopathy makes her bilingual in the language of medical/nursing science and naturopathy.
Dr. Jones is President and Chief Wellness Attraction Ambassador of Wellness Attraction Enterprises LLC. God has given her the tongue of the learned for she knows how to teach a word in season to those who are sick and tired of being sick. those who are well and desire to remain well, and those who don’t know what they don’t know about prospering and being well in their spirit, soul, and body.
Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | X/Twitter
Michelle Stiffler
Michelle Stiffler is a Certified Trauma Specialist, podcast co-host for Arizona’s Trauma-informed Faith Coalition, and trauma-informed trainer for nonprofit organizations. She has over a decade of experience mentoring and teaching women in crisis, abuse, and/or poverty. A long time fitness enthusiast, she balances trauma work with somatic work as a Certified Personal Trainer and Barre Instructor. Her written work has been published with twenty publications and she’s a contributor for the Women’s Devotional Bible in the Message (2024). Michelle writes about adversity, responsive faith, and trusting Jesus more on her blog. Connect with her there to discover more about her trauma-informed training or speaking, or reach out on Instagram.
Marie Chan
Marie Chan shares stories that inspire love for all. Being the daughter of Taiwanese immigrants fueled her passion to write children’s books that amplify underrepresented voices, highlight hidden figures in Asian American history, and build cross-cultural awareness. Marie was awarded a BIPOC scholarship sponsored by Christopher Paul Curtis and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators for her biography of Mamie Tape. As a former California public school teacher, she holds Mamie Tape’s story in her heart because she would not have been allowed to teach or study in California if Mamie had not fought against racial discrimination and won her case.
God has also given Marie diverse motherhood experiences through the international adoption of an older child, a biological child after years of struggling with infertility, and the unexpected stillbirth of her youngest son. Marie shares how God transforms our valleys of hurt to doors of hope when we process our pain in the presence of Christ and community. She writes about grief and loss on her blog.
Currently, Marie leads an adoption support group focused on trauma-informed parenting through Saddleback Church’s Initiative for Vulnerable Children. Marie lives in California with her husband, two children with a third in heaven, and her giant rabbit, Sunshine.
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Cynthia Crawford
Cynthia Crawford, a ministry coach and consultant, boasts over two decades of dedicated service in both volunteer and paid ministry roles within local churches. Her extensive experience reflects a passion for empowering women to fulfill their God-given calling through coaching and aiding faith-based organizations in enhancing their effectiveness and impact through consulting.
Her primary goal is to inspire and equip women to embrace their purpose with unwavering confidence. This commitment is evident in her track record of assisting women in launching ministries, building businesses, securing ministry positions, and becoming published authors. Cynthia currently hosts “Confidently Called,” a monthly virtual gathering designed as a safe space for women to explore their callings and launch thriving ministries. Additionally, she offers personalized one-on-one coaching sessions.
Having served on the staff of renowned national and global ministries, Cynthia has gained invaluable insights into the diverse landscape of faith-based organizations. Leveraging these experiences, she provides consulting to organizations through strategic planning, staff training, and leadership development.
These exceptional individuals represent a fraction of the outstanding Christian minorities shaping their communities and beyond. As we champion diversity and unity, let’s elevate and amplify these voices that have too frequently been marginalized or muted.
Let's elevate and amplify minorities voices that have too frequently been marginalized or muted. Share on XStay tuned for more “Must-Follow Minorities” next month as we continue to highlight and empower inspiring individuals who are driving change and creating a better world.
