Cyrena Martin present Superpower: Uncovering the Wonder of Women

Superpower: Uncovering the Wonder of Women

9/12/2022

Shero is defined as a woman admired or idealized for her courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities; a heroine.

When I think about why I have chosen the path that I am currently on, I think about all my WHYS- God! My daughters! My mothers! My aunties! My sisters! My new grandson! My nieces! Black women! Our youth!

I am often asked why I do the work I do in domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy. My answer remains the same every single time, “Why not?” What if no one was there during a time of need for a victim/survivor?

God 1st, Family, then everything else. God’s plan is the #1 reason why I do anything and everything I do. He is the planner, navigator, and the provider for all my goals, and dreams. My family, beginning with my two daughters, is in focus honoring the significance women's wellness is in our lives. In 2009 I was invited to host a Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Awareness Event. I didn’t know anyone that had breast cancer nor had I ever had a public conversation about women's health. Immediately after that event I became passionate and intentional about women's health issues and advocating for women's wellness.

My superpower is being an advocate/liaison.

In 2010 I founded an organization that has afforded me a platform to be a voice for those if/when they are unable. I now advocate for women's wellness, educating families about their health and other issues affecting their wellbeing. I focus on those who look like me- African American women and families because of all the disparities and challenges we face when working with the many different systems.

My superpower, ADVOCACY, is modeled around the “each one, teach one” motto. I’ve now chosen to become a leader by teaching others, being transparent with my own testimony, and annually honoring survivors. Our organization honors women for their courage and willingness to share their stories to save lives. I refer to these honorees
as My Sheroes.

Over the last five years, we have supported at least 500 women in scheduling their mammograms through our 100 mammogram challenge. Our motto: The best protection is early detection.

We have also celebrated more than 50 Breast Cancer Survivors in their journey toward healing and wellness. Proudly we assist Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Survivors in our Embrace!Empower!Employ(ment)! program with their goals as they begin reintegrating back into the community; feeling empowered and prepared physically, mentally, and spiritually.

For me, a superpower is being able to do what I am passionate about and doing it naturally; waking up each day feeling inspired, never giving up or worrying about the next opportunity to serve; staying faithful to the mission of providing resources, advocacy, and love to those in need. Remembering each person is an individual with very specific personal needs. Being able to be kind and thoughtful as I partner with others in their time of need.

I was recently asked what education is needed in my line of work and I answered, “My clients teach me how to treat them and tell me what they need from me.” Prayer is powerful and necessary as I continue to perfect my superpower.