Influential Woman · Religious Ministry, Humanitarian Services & Nonprofit Leadership
Shirley Cheng
Founder, Ordained Minister, Licensed Chaplain, Bible Teacher & Award-Winning Author, Ultra-Ability.com Ministry
New York, NY
Her Story
About Shirley
Dr. Shirley Cheng has built a life and career around faith, education, writing and service to others. Living with multiple physical disabilities since childhood and blindness since age 17, she has pursued opportunities to learn, create and lead while encouraging others to recognize their own abilities and potential.
Due to prolonged hospitalizations, Dr. Cheng did not begin formal schooling until age 11. With limited English and little previous academic instruction, she entered a special education classroom and advanced to grade level after approximately 180 days of attendance. She continued to excel academically, earning recognition for her achievements and developing a lifelong passion for learning.
At age 20, she began her professional writing career, completing three books within her first year. She has since authored ten books, contributed to more than 25 others and received 27 literary awards. Using assistive technology, including JAWS screen-reading software, she independently writes, formats and publishes her work while managing her website and digital communications.
Dr. Cheng's faith has been central to her professional journey. Through Ultra-Ability.com Ministry, she teaches the Bible to students around the world and provides Christian counseling and spiritual guidance. Her approach emphasizes personal relationships, compassion and meeting the needs of individuals.
In May 2020, she founded Unite in Love in response to the hardships families experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially created to provide emergency assistance, the initiative expanded to support education, medical treatment, housing, food security and small business development. According to her submission, Unite in Love has assisted more than 60 families and individuals across eight countries.
Her humanitarian work includes helping families avoid eviction, supporting students pursuing their education, providing medical equipment and funding projects that encourage greater independence. Dr. Cheng remains personally involved in coordinating assistance and maintaining relationships with those her ministry serves.
Through her writing, teaching and humanitarian leadership, she continues to advocate for a life defined by gratitude, faith and meaningful service. Her guiding philosophy is reflected in the motto of her ministry: "I'm not disabled—I'm ultra-abled through the power of God!"
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shirley
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith in God, my determination to make the most of the abilities I have and my commitment to doing my best in everything I pursue. Throughout my life, I have faced challenges that required me to find different ways to learn, work and accomplish my goals. Rather than concentrating on what I cannot do, I focus on what I can do and how I can use those abilities to serve others. My faith, gratitude and willingness to continue learning have guided me through every stage of my journey.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the most valuable lessons I follow is to remain open to learning and constructive criticism. Knowledge and wisdom come through listening, accepting guidance and recognizing that there is always room for improvement. I believe we should seize opportunities to develop our abilities rather than waiting for perfect circumstances. When we approach our work with humility, diligence and a willingness to learn from mistakes, we place ourselves in a better position to grow and serve others effectively.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do not allow challenges or limitations to determine what you can accomplish. Focus on your strengths, develop your skills and pursue opportunities to learn whenever they arise. You may not always have ideal circumstances, but you can still make meaningful progress with the resources and abilities available to you. I would also encourage young women to establish strong values and approach their work with compassion, humility and dedication. Success is not simply about personal accomplishments. It is also about how you use your gifts to make a difference in the lives of others.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges in humanitarian service is securing enough funding to meet the needs of individuals and families who have limited access to assistance. Through Unite in Love, I have seen how even modest contributions can provide food, medical treatment, educational opportunities and support for small businesses. I also see tremendous opportunities in technology and accessibility. Screen-reading software and advances in artificial intelligence have increased my independence and allowed me to manage more responsibilities without relying on sighted assistance. As these technologies improve, I believe they can create additional opportunities for people with disabilities to lead and serve.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Faith, love, gratitude and service are the foundation of my life and work. My relationship with Yahweh God guides my decisions and motivates me to use the blessings I have received to help others. I believe that leadership should begin with genuine love and concern for people, recognizing their individual needs and treating them with dignity. Gratitude helps me maintain perspective through difficult circumstances, while faith gives me the strength to continue pursuing my purpose. Above all, I want my life to reflect compassion and encourage others to extend that same love to the people around them.
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