Tonya Walker, PMP
Tonya Walker is a multifaceted leader whose influence spans corporate management, ministry leadership, authorship, entrepreneurship, personal development, and community empowerment. With a career defined by integrity, resilience, and a commitment to lifting others, Tonya has spent more than a decade shaping teams, building people, and transforming environments through a mindset of positivity, operational excellence, and purpose-driven leadership.
Professionally, Tonya is a PMP-certified project management professional, an insurance adjuster and team lead expert, and an accomplished administrative manager. She previously served as a Senior Property Claims Adjuster and Team Lead at Sedgwick, where she guided adjusters through large-loss claims, ensured regulatory accuracy, and elevated operational performance. Before Sedgwick, Tonya spent 10 years with Pilot Catastrophe Services as an Administrative Manager, where she led adjusters with the “power of positive”—strengthening morale, increasing productivity, and driving exceptional team performance in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.
Tonya holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Faulkner University, where she made the Dean’s List, reflecting her commitment to excellence and continual learning.
With all her management experience, Tonya’s leadership foundation was built through extensive, hands-on operational management experience. She has served as Produce Department Manager at Sam’s Club, Front-End Manager at Walmart, and Café Service Manager at Eastern Shore Toyota, as well as Administrative Manager at Pilot Catastrophe Services and Senior Property Claims Adjuster and Team Lead at Sedgwick, where she became widely recognized as both a High-Performance Leadership Expert and a Customer Experience Strategist. Her ability to motivate teams, develop people, enhance customer satisfaction, and optimize operations has remained a defining hallmark of her career.
As an entrepreneur, Tonya is the Owner of You Don’t Define Me—a movement and brand dedicated to identity, healing, and personal empowerment. She is also the Co-Owner of Shine Bright Body Butter, a natural skincare line that reflects her passion for wellness, beauty, and confidence.
Tonya is the Author of nine self-published books, including the groundbreaking You Don’t Define Me, which launched the You Don’t Define Me Movement. In addition to her authorship, she serves as a Motivational Speaker and Personal Development Coach, equipping individuals of all ages to overcome limiting beliefs, discover purpose, and unlock their God-given potential.
Her faith leadership is equally impactful. Tonya is the Founder of the Stand on Scripture Movement, a powerful initiative empowering believers to strengthen their spiritual foundation through the Word of God. She serves as a Teacher of the Word of God, and currently leads as the Director of Children’s Ministry and Director of Youth Ministry, pouring into the next generation with wisdom, compassion, and biblical truth.
Tonya’s accomplishments have earned national recognition. She was honored in the 2020–2021 Marquis Who’s Who in America, an award reserved for individuals who demonstrate professional integrity, outstanding achievement, and meaningful contributions to society.
She gives all Glory to God for the call on her life and attributes her success to her curiosity, her pursuit of continual learning, and her unwavering belief that “others do not define you, and in return, you do not define others.”
Today, Tonya Walker stands as a powerful voice of influence—combining leadership, faith, strategy, and heart to impact the workplace, the church, and the world. Her life’s work continues to inspire men, women, and youth to rise above limitations, walk in purpose, and declare boldly: “You Don’t Define Me.”
• Project Management Institute
• Faulkner University- B.B.A.
• Marquis Who's Who Award
• Women of Influence Network
• Fall Festival Organizing, Food Drive and Gas Giveway Volunteer in the Community
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, discipline, and a commitment to uplifting those around me. She gives all Glory to God for the call on her life and credits her growth to curiosity, continuous learning, and the conviction that “others do not define you, and in return, you do not define others.” My mother instilled in me that right is right and wrong is wrong, and that honor must remain even in challenging moments. Her guidance taught me to shift from negativity toward grace — a principle that now influences how I lead, love, and serve.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
"Focus on becoming indispensable by continuously learning, adding value, and lifting others as you climb."
This advice has guided me throughout my career. It reminds me that success isn’t just about titles or salary—it’s about cultivating expertise, building meaningful relationships, and empowering the people around you. Whether leading teams, managing operations, or mentoring others, the principle of creating lasting impact has shaped every decision I make. It encourages resilience, curiosity, and integrity, and it reinforces the idea that leadership is not just about personal achievement but about leaving a positive legacy.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: never let your circumstances define you. Life will challenge your confidence, but your growth, determination, and belief in yourself will shape your future—so keep learning, keep moving, and surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field right now is balancing multiple responsibilities while pursuing growth and education. Returning to school as an adult taught me that perseverance, discipline, and determination can turn even the most demanding seasons into defining moments of personal and professional growth.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are faith, positivity, and service. My ministry work and my “You Don’t Define Me” movement reflect my commitment to empowering others, living with purpose, and inspiring people to define themselves despite life’s challenges.
