.png)
Defying Odds & Trusting God: My International Women’s Day Reflection
At first, I was thinking about sharing some recent wins, but I felt compelled to share some throwback photos instead. My life has been a series of pivots—adapting, trusting, and walking in the truth of who God says I am. At a recent conference, I was reminded that success isn’t just the highlight reels—it’s about thriving through uncertainty. People celebrate the milestones but rarely share the moments of doubt, closed doors, or difficult transitions.
Over 23 years ago, I returned to school as a young, married mother after dropping out as a teen mom. I earned a degree in Social Work to help others, but my path shifted. I was drawn to leadership, teaching, speaking, and equipping others—not just helping shape messages, but helping people see the value in their own stories, careers, and relationships.
Yes, I am a preacher—called to proclaim truth, encourage, and challenge others to boldly walk in their God-given purpose. Whether behind a pulpit, on a stage, in a boardroom, or through strategy and storytelling, my mission remains the same: empowering people to step fully into their calling.
I was the first in my family to do so many things—first to graduate college, first to marry, first in various leadership roles I held. Coincidence? Not at all. God was intentional. I later earned a Master’s in Communication and started a PhD program (not in a rush—if the Lord sees fit, it will be completed ✔️).
Change has been the theme of my life. I used to see it as a burden, but I now understand it was God’s way of molding me. What felt like obstacles were actually preparation. Learning to pivot opened doors I never imagined—like speaking on Capitol Hill and sharing my story with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services about shifting mindsets and transforming young lives.
I’ve embraced my calling to equip and empower others—through leadership, marketing, branding, public speaking, strategic communication, and preaching. Many struggle to recognize their own worth, voice, and the power of their experiences. But when they do, everything changes.
Through it all, I didn’t have a blueprint. But God placed incredible women in my life—mentors, friends, and trailblazers who poured into me. Now, I realize I was becoming the blueprint for those coming behind me.
I married an amazing man, built a life and career that once felt like a dream, and learned that the road wasn’t easy—but it was worth every step. 💃
For the women still figuring it out, without a tribe or clear direction—you are blazing the trail. Your purpose, business, career, and connections all have value. And one day, you’ll look back and see that God equipped you all along.
Keep pivoting. Keep trusting. Keep walking in who He says you are.👏🏽💕
Canena Adams, MA, BSW, SRAS
Communications Professional & Leadership Coach
Wife | Mother | Writer | Author | Public Speaker | Social Worker | Business Owner | Nonprofit Founder & Director | Sexual Risk Avoidance Specialist | Healthy Family & Relationship Advocate | Blogger | Podcaster | Adjunct College Prof. | PhD Student | And more...
Comments