Her Story
About Marie
Marie Polynice is the founder of Melanin Soul Media, a faith-centered personal development and leadership brand dedicated to helping purpose-driven individuals transform vision into action. After spending six years developing her vision before officially launching the organization in 2024, she created a platform that supports faith-driven builders as they navigate seasons of transition with clarity, confidence, and intentional action. Through coaching, content creation, speaking engagements, and her Souls on Fire podcast, Marie empowers individuals to strengthen their mindset, embrace their identity, and build meaningful lives grounded in purpose and faith.
With a background in organizational leadership, Marie combines strategic planning with authentic leadership to help individuals move beyond ideas and create practical systems for lasting transformation. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Organizational Leadership at Southern New Hampshire University and previously earned a Leadership Certificate from Christ Fellowship Leadership College after receiving a scholarship. An active member of Toastmasters International, she has earned multiple speaking competition honors, including a third-place finish at the district level, further strengthening her expertise in leadership communication and public speaking. She is also the self-published author of Built by Him, which encourages readers to pursue their God-given vision with intentionality and trust.
Throughout her career, Marie has remained committed to leading with integrity, collaboration, and faith. She attributes her success entirely to God and believes that authentic leadership begins with embracing one's true identity rather than conforming to external expectations. Passionate about helping others discover and pursue their purpose, she encourages emerging leaders to confidently use their voices, advocate for their aspirations, and build lives that reflect who they were uniquely created to become. Through her coaching, writing, and leadership, Marie continues to inspire individuals to turn vision into meaningful action while remaining grounded in faith and service.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Marie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success entirely to God. My faith has been the foundation of every opportunity, decision, and accomplishment throughout my journey. I believe that my purpose and direction come from Him, and I strive to ensure that everything I build reflects His guidance and calling for my life.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the most valuable pieces of career advice I have received was to speak up for myself and clearly communicate what I want to achieve. Advocating for my goals and expressing my aspirations has helped create opportunities that may not have existed otherwise, and it has reinforced the importance of making my voice heard.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to never be afraid of being seen. More importantly, make sure you are seen for who you truly are rather than trying to become who others expect you to be. Authenticity is one of your greatest strengths, and embracing your unique identity will allow you to build a purpose-driven life and career with confidence.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is the foundation of everything I do. I believe that if you can envision something, you were meant to create it, and if you cannot accomplish it alone, you should seek collaboration with others who can help bring that vision to life. I value honesty, authenticity, and meaningful partnerships because I believe collaboration allows people to accomplish far more together than they could individually.
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