Iona R. Rudisill
Iona R Rudisill is a transformative force—a conscientious influencer, critical thinker, abolitionist, holistic wellness advisor, multi-faceted leader, innovator, and bestselling author with a globally resonating podcast. Overcoming abuse, life-threatening injuries, and even death, she emerges as a beacon of strength and inspiration. With over 30 years as a licensed social worker, she strategically advocates for the rights of children and families, pioneering programs with organizations combating child exploitation.
Her bestselling book, “Phenomenal Women who BossUp,” is a cornerstone in her holistic wellness journey, a reflection of her entrepreneurial spirit and inspiring audiences globally. She delves into critical topics within holistic wellness, positioning herself as an inspirational speaker. Her podcast, “Iona Speaks about Defending Self-Justice,” empowers women to embrace their gifts for a higher purpose, echoing her commitment to uplifting others. Grounded in faith, as an ordained Elder and licensed for Sacerdotal Ministry, she embodies purpose and resilience, shaping intentional choices that define her impactful presence. Her purposeful statement is, “Be intentional about who you are, what you do, and how you do it.”
My Story
I was a child born and raised in East Hampton, New York, as an African and Native American with Shinnecock Indian Nation traditions. Before I was three years old, I was in and out of the hospital multiple times. My mother was unknowingly abusive towards me through her diagnosis of Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy.
As I had a protective father, it was the home of my paternal grandparents where I felt safe, protected, and loved. In this house, I learned the power of prayer, the importance of faith, and how to use my voice and intellect to stand up for myself and others amid racism and sexism.
As a 19-year-old, I was in a car accident where doctors were about to code me because my heart stopped, yet they told my family that someone else was in the room with them when I began to breathe again. I experienced a skull fracture, broken leg, broken nose, and eye damage with the limited ability to walk correctly, see with clarity, smell with strength, and process cognitively.
As a 23-year-old I received my Master’s in Social Work with a minor in Law from Columbia University while on the Dean’s list.
During a Black History Month Celebration, I was asked to speak about the intersectionality of race, culture, and ethnicity with abuse and neglect.
Having a desire to provide services to children in the United States and around the world, during my 2nd missions trip to South Africa, I had the opportunity to be a part of a delegation that worked on community projects such as supporting the Sinethemba Children’s Care Centre (Orphanage).
I became the first Lead Forensic Interviewer at Baltimore Child Abuse Center (a nationally accredited Children’s Advocacy Center) after being a forensic interviewer for years.
After decades of believing that it was not God’s will for me to be married, I married a man of faith who demonstrated the pure love of Christ towards me, where I was blessed with a stepdaughter. My husband has been dedicated and supportive towards me and our family.
I was diagnosed with a severely inverted uterus with the limited possibility of giving birth to a healthy child. After having an emergency extraction of an undeveloped fetus, I was blessed to give birth to a healthy son.
I was invited to present two full-day trainings for the Children’s Justice Centers in Hawaii after training around the nation to empower children and families.
Along with other professionals, I was awarded the Governor’s Citation for my tireless commitment to fighting human trafficking and dedicated efforts to combat injustice in support of freedom for all.
Once I accepted that my voice is a gift from God, that I have a message to share, and understood that every woman and mother have immeasurable experiences of value, worth, and dignity, “Iona Speaks about Defending Self-Justice” was launched.
I was able to embrace a new day when I understood that the power of my name was to be shared because Iona means precious jewel, purple stone, and place of refuge. No one is named by chance.
"Phenomenal Women Who Boss Up"
My Beliefs
As my mission is to awaken, illuminate and empower the hearts of women and mothers for restored hope through multiple platforms such as podcasts, publications, and public speaking, these are my beliefs:
· To walk with Integrity so that what is said is accomplished
· To utilize Wisdom in the actions I take for myself and others
· To adhere to Self-Discipline as an image-bearer of God so that what I provide is fruitfulness and abundance
· To be a conduit of Agape Love, God’s pure love to be shown to all creation
· To let Justice help bring healing and restoration to those in pain to be empowered to walk in their dominion through the power of voice
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There are no boundaries and no ceilings to how God can move in our lives when we release Him to be limitless beyond our control.
“We may not be able to control the fact that we are by default, vulnerable in this society in this world but we can share our narrative on our terms and use it for connection and empowerment instead of hustling for our worth.”
— Aiko D. Bethea
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