The Journey Collective Inc.

— is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. We are committed to empowering women in their spiritual, emotional, physical, and financial wellness goals. At The Journey, we believe that when women are empowered, their homes and communities are transformed. As such, we provide women with life-changing wellness opportunities through interactive programming and exciting events.

MEET

Kiya Ward Shears

Founding President

Kiya Ward Shears is the founding president of The Journey Collective Inc., a national organization dedicated to empowering, equipping, and uplifting women across the country. The Journey was born from a deeply personal place—after losing her parents unexpectedly just four months apart, Kiya felt a clear nudging from God to create a refuge for women navigating life’s toughest seasons. What began as a space for her own healing has grown into a thriving national network serving over 1,000 women annually through empowerment initiatives, Bible studies, conferences, retreats, virtual coaching, and social gatherings.

Kiya’s vision for The Journey champions the needs of women nationwide, addressing emotional, spiritual, and practical challenges, and providing solutions that transform lives. Her leadership and dedication have created a platform where women can find healing, growth, and community in every stage of life.

An internationally published author, dynamic preacher, and passionate advocate for women, Kiya holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a Master of Arts in Communication Studies: International Public Relations from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, and a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University.

Her civic engagement, empowering ministry, and visionary leadership have earned her national recognition, including being named one of the Top 40 Under 40 Leaders to Watch by the Triad Business Journal, the 2018 Frederick Buechner Award for Excellence in Preaching from Candler School of Theology, and one of the 2022 Most Influential African Americans Under 40 in the Triad by Black Business Ink.

Beyond her professional and ministry accomplishments, Kiya is a devoted wife to Pastor George Shears III and a proud mother and bonus mom, delighting in adventures with her young children and cherishing the joy and love of family.

Providing the passion, creativity, and commitment that make everything we do possible. Your service helps transform the lives of women and strengthen communities nationwide.

Volunteering with The Journey isn’t just about giving time — it’s about giving heart. It’s offering what money can’t buy: love, faith, and genuine care for others.

As we continue to grow across the nation, we’re looking for dedicated volunteers to join our Events Team, Development Team, Journey Ambassadors, Marketing Team, Prayer Team, and more! Whether you have a few hours a week or a few hours a month, there’s a place for you at The Journey.

No matter where you live — there’s a way for you to serve.
Become part of a community that empowers women to live well and lead boldly.