Written By: Dr. Sonya Alise McKinzie
In a world that often celebrates success in terms of accolades and achievements, it is rare and refreshing to honor the quiet, powerful strength of a mother who has turned her pain into purpose. Dr. Sonya McKinzie, recently named the 2025 Georgia Mother of the Year® by American Mothers, Inc., is one such woman—a source of hope, healing, and unwavering love.
Born in Brunswick, Georgia, and now residing in Marietta, Dr. McKinzie is more than a mother—she is a survivor, a leader, a healer, and a voice for the voiceless. Her journey is one of transformation, marked by courage in the face of adversity and a deep commitment to uplifting others.
Dr. McKinzie’s path has not been easy. As a survivor of domestic violence, PTSD, and anxiety, she has faced challenges that could have broken her spirit. Instead, she chose to rise. With her daughter as her guiding light, she rebuilt her life from the ground up—pursuing higher education, earning multiple degrees, and becoming a certified trauma and recovery life coach.
Her personal experiences became the foundation for her life’s mission: to help others heal. She founded ThriveHER Incorporated, formerly the Women of Virtue Transitional Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors of abuse and trauma. Through this organization, she has provided countless women with the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to reclaim their lives.
At the heart of Dr. McKinzie’s story is her role as a mother. Her 14-year-old daughter is not only her pride and joy but also her inspiration. “Being a mother is the most sacred role I’ve ever held,” Dr. McKinzie has said. “It’s not just about raising a child—it’s about raising a future, a legacy.”
Her love and dedication extend far beyond her own family. Through her work, she has become a maternal figure to many—offering guidance, support, and unconditional love to those who need it most. Her advocacy for victims’ rights, her authorship of 18 books on healing and empowerment, and her participation in the Marsy’s Law Movement all reflect her deep commitment to creating a safer, more compassionate world.
Dr. McKinzie’s recognition as Georgia Mother of the Year® is not just a personal honor—it is a celebration of every mother who has ever felt unseen, unheard, or unappreciated. Her story is a powerful reminder that motherhood is not defined by perfection, but by perseverance, love, and the courage to keep going.
To every mother reading this, let Dr. McKinzie’s journey be a source of strength: You are enough. Even on the days when you feel like you’re falling short, your love and presence matter more than you know. Your story matters. Every challenge you’ve overcome, every tear you’ve shed, and every victory—big or small—has shaped you into the incredible woman you are. You are not alone. Whether you’re navigating motherhood, healing from trauma, or chasing your dreams, there is a community of women who see you, support you, and believe in you. You have the power to change lives. Just like Dr. McKinzie, your experiences can become a source of inspiration and healing for others.
Her story is a testament to the power of motherhood—not just as a role, but as a force for transformation. It is a reminder that when women support each other, when they rise from adversity with grace and grit, they create ripples of change that touch generations.
Dr. Sonya McKinzie’s life is a living legacy of love, resilience, and service. She has turned her pain into purpose, her struggles into strength, and her motherhood into a mission. As we celebrate her well-deserved recognition, we also celebrate the countless mothers who, like her, are changing the world—one act of love at a time.
To Dr. McKinzie, a true ThriveHER at heart, and every mother walking a path of courage and compassion: thank you. You are the heart of our communities, the soul of our families, and the heroes of our time.
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