Daily Inspiration: Meet LaTonya Allen

Today we’d like to introduce you to LaTonya Allen.

Hi LaTonya, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
So, I grew up in a small town in Wendell, North Carolina, called Riley Hill. It’s a warm and welcoming town. I was raised in the Christian faith with my mother as my Pastor, and my father was our Deacon at our church. For me, it was the absolute most comfortable place on earth. There was consistency but no stagnation. My parents always challenged us to be our best selves. Unfortunately, on April 9, 2014, my wonderful parents were murdered in their home, where my kids and I resided. I was separated and going through a divorce when my estranged husband of thirteen years came into our home, violating the restraining order, and shot them. In the process, I was shot in the face and the chest. Although I recovered, my life would never even remotely be the same. I felt I’d served in ministry with them forever. I thought I had ample time for my kids to learn from them. I didn’t! So, that leads us to where I am today. I’m a warrior, an advocate, not just a voice for the abused or broken, but the hands and feet for them. I speak at engagements, helping with training and awareness, and just being present in any community where I’m needed or called to. My parents never would have wanted me to quit. I always say, “If you have a pulse, you have a purpose.” 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a challenging road, but in hindsight, I was prepared. I come from a family with a legacy of resilience. From sharecropping great-grandparents, aunts and uncles who are business owners to parents who were leaders in our community. I’ve seen challenges, but I’ve also seen victory. I’ve battled adjustment issues, trust, and general fear in public, but it’s all a daily battle that has to be won. And I choose to fight! 

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
My favorite podcast is called In The Light with Dr. Anita Phillips. 

Some of my favorite books include: 

The Black Woman’s Guide to Overcoming Domestic Violence by Shavonne J Moore-Lobban, PhD and Robyn L Gobin, PhD 

Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen 

Self-Love Workbook for Women by Megan Logan, MSW, LCSW 

Atomic Habits James Clear 

Supernatural Freedom From The Captivity of Trauma by Mike Hutchings 

Contact Info:

• Website: booklatonya.com
• Instagram: latonyaallen_fff
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaTonyaAllen.FFF

Image Credits
Fitz Frames