Today we’d like to introduce you to Marnell Small.
Hi Marnell, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As a certified fitness instructor since 2012, It started with my own weight loss journey where I was 317lbs. I became a fitness instructor and lost over 70lbs. I’ve inspired countless women begin or continue their wellness journeys through dance fitness classes. Then I realized it was bigger than fitness, when I decided to assist a young a young lady who was attending my classes with her prom expenses and my entire class chipped in. At this point I realized this was about community and sisterhood. I graduated from Bennett college in Greensboro, NC an all female college, which was very rich in sisterhood. I started my non profit organization The Diva Movement Association Inc. Through my organization I’ve been able to help many women through, motivational movement programs. , and accessible health-centered events.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being the CEO of a non profit, specifically geared towards women has not been easy. We have done so very much for women, but as an my heart is so big. As much as I desire to do, I haven’t always been able to do.
Most of what we do for the community is free, and we haven’t received a lot of grants etc to assist with those efforts, so everything we have been able to accomplish has simply been from community support or my own personal funding.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
By day, I work for the Federal Government as a Financial Manager, but my passion is outside of work where I use my gift as a MC & Host to bring joy and life to events all over.
Affectionately known as “The Diva MC” and “The Voice,” I have spent more than a decade using my platform to inspire, energize, and uplift communities through events centered around health, confidence, service, and sisterhood. Through my organization, I have successfully led annual women’s empowerment celebrations, wellness brunches, fitness initiatives, community recognition programs, and outreach efforts designed to encourage personal growth and collective healing.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I want people to know that I lead with heart, purpose, and authenticity. Everything I do comes from a genuine desire to help others feel seen, empowered, and inspired. I’ve faced challenges like many others, but I’ve learned that pain can produce purpose. My mission is to create spaces where people heal, grow, and remember their worth. I want my life to reflect service, resilience, and the reminder that no matter what you face, you can still rise.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.divamovementassociationinc.com
- Instagram: theDivaMc
- Facebook: The Diva Movement Association, Inc
