Born of Violence: Triumph Over Tragedy - Living Out God's Purpose

Ms. Kimya N. Motley is a certified educator and instructional coach with over twenty years of teaching experience in Georgia Public Schools, including DeKalb, Rockdale, and Gwinnett counties. She received a Bachelor of Sciences in a dual program with the College of Family and Consumer Sciences and the College of Education from the University of Georgia. She also received a Masters of Sciences in Counseling Psychology from The University of Missouri. Motley earned the distinction of Teacher of the Year for Rosebud Elementary and has served on the Teacher Advisory Council to the Gwinnett County School System's Superintendent during the 2015-2016 school year. In recognition for her work as an educator, she has received commendations from Kelly Kautz, Mayor of Snellville, and State Senator Gloria Butler. After surviving a tragedy in 2011, in which Motley's ex-husband ambushed her at a daycare center and shot her and her daughter in the head, Motley founded Haven of Light International, Inc. in May 2013. Haven of Light International is a non-profit designed to help families rebuild spiritually, physically, emotionally, and financially after abuse. In addition to helping families through Haven of Light, Motley is an inspirational speaker for organizations and events in support of fighting domestic violence, teen dating violence, and sex trafficking. She received a commendation from Governor Deal in March 2016 for her work as a leading domestic violence advocate. The Investigation Discovery Channel named her their Everyday Hero in November 2016 for the work she does inspiring a difference in the lives of others through her dedication to victims' rights and healing. Motley enjoys reading; dining out; pinning recipes to her Pinterest board (that she wishes she had more time to make); and spending time with her son, Theron, her daughter, Corinne, and her Pomeranian, Peanut