Although their leadership roles differ, Joy Enriquez, Chip hurd, and Roxanne wilson sharing has a common trait. Before being propelled into the limelight, each of them mastered the art of serving. In many ways, these leads still hold supporting roles. However, among other influences, exceptional talent and a strong desire to help others drive his success.

Passion with purpose

Recording artist and founder of Joyful Child Records, Joy Enriquez is no stranger to the entertainment industry. He was 15 when he appeared on Star Search and 18 when he released his first R&B album on LaFace Records. In addition to being a model spokesperson for L’Oreal and broadcaster, Enriquez is also known for her acting role throughout the season on the hit Warner Brother television series. Seventh sky.

Before embarking on a full-time music career, Enriquez volunteered at Bridge of Faith, a California-based community outreach program geared toward helping young adult girls transition from adoption and foster care situations to a work and living environment. To satisfy his desire to serve while on tour, Enriquez became involved in a similar initiative facilitated by Mercy Ministries. The nonprofit organization meets the needs of young women facing life management issues such as drug and alcohol abuse, addictions, depression, eating disorders, and unintended pregnancy.

Enríquez, a firm believer that “God can do great things through your gift,” takes every opportunity to talk to the girls she meets at Mercy about their dreams and “everyday problems.” “A lot of the girls want to be the next top model, American Idol or dancer on television,” Enriquez advised. Using his entertainment expertise to provide balance, he cautions: “If you have to compromise who you are and your integrity, it’s not worth it because you pay a higher price in the end.”

With a very firm foundation in faith and family, Enriquez vowed not to compromise. “Whether it’s work, marriage, or a relationship, it’s better to wait on God and be patient,” he said. “Don’t compromise. Don’t settle for less. You have to reach the top,” he warned.

Although Enríquez’s first album garnered international acclaim, ironically, it also inspired her to change gears. Released a week after the September 11 attacks, Enriquez realized the difference a song makes for listeners. “It was a good pop, R&B album, but not something that would help someone get out of a situation they were in or deal with life problems,” he admits.

Driven by a desire to make a difference in the world, Enríquez chose to make songs that “heal people’s hearts.” Instead of releasing another R&B album, Enriquez pursued his passion. With the help of her husband, Grammy-winning blockbuster Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, Enriquez created a gospel praise album titled, Sky atmosphere. Jerkins’ extensive experience working with the likes of Mary J. Blige, Whitney Houston, Britney Spears, and Usher enabled them to complete Enriquez’s second album in less than three weeks.

Today, Enríquez believes that she is doing what she was born to do: sing, yes, but also be a mentor and inspire. “The older I get, the more I realize that [your] gifts lead to where God wants to take you, “Enriquez commented.” Singing is great. I love to sing, glorify God and make good music, but that opens the door for me to talk to people and let them know that [their] The gifts or talents finally came from God on the day [they] born. “

Lessons for a lifetime Chip Hurd is an accomplished actress with more than 10 years of experience on stage, film, and television. In addition to being a dialogue coach for 20 years, Hurd has worked with a variety of artists, from comedians to athletes to recording artists. His resume also includes credits as director of sitcoms, All of us, Brides, Hanging out with Mr. Cooper, Hannah Montana, Living Single, One by one, and The Parkers.

So passionate about encouraging others and using her gift for ministry, Hurd last year accepted the position of Senior Director of Inspired By Media Group’s innovative audio production. The biblical experience. His most satisfying role to date, Hurd describes directing The biblical experience as, “one of the most extraordinary blessings that God has bestowed on me.” Clearly, Hurd’s experience as an actress, dialogue coach, and television director prepared her to direct the project. His ability to discern heart, passion and tone is reflected in the final product.

Best known for playing Penny Gordon’s mother on the 1970s sitcom, good timesHurd is the mother of daughters, Kim and Alexis Fields, the eldest of whom played alongside her as an on-screen mother.
While Hurd’s progression from actress to director was seamless, it came at a price. “Once I realized that I was going to be on television as a director, I should have taken a break and went to film school. As I left the theater, I deluded myself into thinking that I knew how to direct.” To be effective as a director, Hurd took it upon herself to learn the roles of the support crew members, including the cinematographer, technician, and even cameraman.

From her experience as a mother and entertainment executive, Hurd has learned many life lessons. “I never made it to college because I ended up being a mom,” she said. “I got pregnant in high school and it interrupted what could have been a much easier flow for me, where I would have gone straight to college.” all for the ‘seat of [her] panties. ‘”“ That’s not the best way to do it, especially if you don’t have to, ”she advised.

Reinforced by a lesson Will Smith learned while filming AliHurd emphasized how important it is to be consumed by the information you want to master. In addition to acquiring a “trusted godly mentor,” Hurd advocates being around people who are more skilled than you and asking lots of questions.

Among other lessons, Hurd has learned that success is built on application. “God wants to trust that you will do your part to prepare and take advantage of all the things that are available to you,” he said. Success can also be found in building support. Accredit it husband, Ervin Hurd for his personal growth and accomplishments, Hurd advised, “We have a beautiful marriage based on love and respect.”

Despite having extensive experience in public speaking, directing and working with high-profile personalities, Hurd says one fear remains: feeling intimidated by hierarchy. However, overcoming that fear is as simple as “acknowledging that God made us all and there is no need to fear,” Hurd said.

Business meeting room

At 27, Roxanne wilson He has accomplished a lot through the courtroom and the boardroom. An appellate attorney by profession, Wilson first gained public attention during the fifth season of NBC. The newbie. Described by Donald Trump as “very, very smart … brilliant … a good speaker … [and] very impressive, “Wilson is the first African-American woman to reach the final four. So impressed by her ability to make her case, Trump commented,” I wish I had [Roxanne] represent me in court. “

Wilson’s track record for making an impression began at a young age. Wilson, the second of three girls, was that little girl who always asked probing questions simply because she wanted to understand. Her skills as a top debater, competitive swimmer, and counselor developed in the various roles that she defended as a teenager.

To her credit, Wilson is the first female and second African American fraternity member of the Baylor University Chamber of Commerce. After two years as a member, Wilson was elected president of the fraternity. In addition to working as an attorney at Winstead, Sechrest & Minick PC, Wilson worked for two justices on the Texas Supreme Court.

Intelligence, ambition, and sympathy enabled Wilson to secure a place in The newbie. However, fear almost short-circuited his decision. “I had to put aside the fear of what others would think [me]”Advised Wilson.” I’m a daddy’s daughter and I didn’t want to do anything that would disappoint or embarrass [my dad especially]. At the same time, I wanted to take on the challenge of The newbie and I realized that I couldn’t care what other people thought, not even my father. “

Although Wilson has since retired from the courtroom, she remains active in the boardroom. Currently, he is an interim member of the Austin Youth League, a national spokesperson for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Destiny Joy and a member of the Austin Affiliate Board of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Wilson is also actively involved in advancing the Young Professionals group at Riverbend Church, singing with the Riverbend Choir and managing his Jazzercise franchise to include instructional classes.

Realizing that being in business leadership is more difficult for women than men, Wilson points out that true leadership is about serving. “You can’t lead effectively if you can’t put yourself in the shoes of those you lead. The newbieThose who couldn’t relate to the rest of the team alienated the team, “he said.

Wilson encourages no one to be moved by limitations: “Whether you’re young or old, female or male, you have to turn sixteen every chance you get. If the door is ajar even a little, push your way through.” .

Although he is pursuing a new career, Wilson still dreams of returning to law. “One of my dreams has always been to be a Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States,” said Wilson. “If the president called me and said, ‘Roxanne, I need you to serve as a Supreme Court justice,’ I’m there.” Until then, Wilson is focused on completing an inspirational and motivational book titled, Footprints in the boardroom serving as television host and speaking to college students and business professionals from across the country.

Following the example of Dr. Maya Angelou’s adage, “As long as I am here, I will be of use,” these women excel in their area of ​​influence, personally and professionally. Admired for their talents, character, and accomplishments, they are also celebrated for their commitment to lead by serving.