Samanthia Owen Cassidy

I attribute my success to the plan and mercy of God, first and foremost. My husband's backbone was also crucial - he told me this is what I was supposed to do, to sing and testify. That encouragement from Bill gave me the courage to step into my calling. Beyond that, it's about never giving up. You just press on, no matter what obstacles come your way. Even when I was put out on the streets with nothing, even when doors closed, I kept going. God's mercy carried me through every trial, and my husband believed in me when I needed it most. Those two things together - God's plan and Bill's support - made all the difference in my journey.

The best career advice I've ever received is, first and foremost, to seek the wisdom of God. His wisdom is far greater than any man's advice. But beyond that, you need to try to associate with those that have proven that with work and determination, you can achieve and you can succeed. It's about surrounding yourself with people who have actually done what they're teaching, people who have walked the walk. My husband Bill gave me powerful advice too when he told me to do what I was supposed to do - to sing and testify. That simple direction changed everything for me. But it all starts with seeking God's wisdom first, because He sees the bigger picture that we can't see.

My advice to young women entering my industry is simple: don't ever give up. Keep pressing forward and march on. Do what you know in your heart that you were called to do. Don't give up, just keep on going. And here's something powerful to remember - if you help one person, that person may be able to touch millions. I learned that when I was standing on the soil of Africa. I'm a little old girl who grew up in Cortland, Alabama, and there I was standing on the soil of Africa, singing to over 14 million people. Their president invited me to sing in his villa. I was put out on the streets because I stood up against an evil preacher, but later God used that same little girl, that adult woman, because she didn't give up. As long as we're here, we can't give up.

The values most important to me are integrity, sharing love for others, music and laughter, and having a strong work ethic. Integrity comes first because truth matters - that's why I've turned down so many movie deals over the years when producers wanted to change my story or add bad things. I wouldn't allow it because truth will set you free. Sharing love for others is crucial because this world is so in need of it. I teach women who have been abused that they have a well of wealth of wisdom within them. Music and laughter are important to me too - laughter's a good medicine. And having a strong work ethic matters because it takes work and determination to do anything that's worthwhile. These values have guided me through everything, from standing up against evil to helping others find their own strength.