Our culture is reflected through stories. By sharing various perspectives, we reveal how we are connected and become more empathetic. My passion for storytelling started when I was a little girl, in court testifying against my abusers. It was then that I discovered the power of my voice and it has become my passion to share narratives. Every mission has a story that can spark social change. 

IMA President, Chinua Joi Ivey, MA

Chinua Joi Ivey, MA​

Chinua Joi Ivey is a communications practitioner who focuses on engaging audiences through storytelling. She is passionate about the responsibility we all share in advocating for the health of the communities in which we live and serve. When asked about her 15-year career in corporate communications, she explains, "Effective communication is an art form that can unify masses and encourage social change." Her vast communication experience includes print, radio, publishing, public relations, and marketing for various industries. 

As a former victim of crime, she understands what it means to feel voiceless. Her childhood home in Washington, DC was filled with intimate partner violence, child abuse, substance abuse, mental illness, and neglect. As a result, she became a ward of the court and aged out of the foster care system. She notes, however, that the love and support of two amazing foster families blessed her with security, stability, and hope. Upon graduation, she earned a Presidential award from William Clinton for academic improvement. 

Mrs. Ivey has a BA in Mass Communications/Speech Communication (2002, Bethune-Cookman College), a MA in Organizational Management (2004, University of Phoenix), and a Graduate-level Certificate in Domestic Violence Prevention (2011, University of Massachusetts - Lowell). Currently, she studying for a second master’s degree in Strategic Communication with a focus on Advocacy at American University (2021). American University offers one of the top five public relations programs in the nation. There, she has a merit scholarship and a 3.8 GPA.

As a committed advocate, she increases awareness of the risks and consequences of relationship violence through her non-fiction IRIS (Incredible Resilience and Inner Strength) Book Series, Mentoring Program, workshops, and more. She is keenly aware of the importance of branding and positioning for today's  thought leader. Through her boutique PR business, Ivey Media Agency, she is a freelance writer and consultant for small businesses and non-profits. Mrs. Ivey resides in metro Atlanta, Georgia with her husband. Together, they have three adult children.