Inspired by the notion that before we are born, God calls us each by name, Shadia founded Beautiful Voice Ministries. “Because of my unusual name, I was frequently ridiculed as a child. In response, my mother would reassure me, ‘Your name is beautiful! It means Singing Birds!’ ‘More like screeching owls,’ my friends would tease. I always thought the meaning of my name was ironic considering the undeniable fact I have no musical ability. However, soon after I began publicly sharing my story, I discovered my name has another meaning: Beautiful Voice!”
Shadia passionately shares her testimony at churches, recovery groups, pro-life fundraisers, and other events. She is currently writing a book about her personal experience with abortion recovery: Nameless No More. Shadia leads a woman’s bible study, publishes a weekly thought-provoking devotional called “Moments With God,” and never tires of declaring God’s message of hope, redemption and forgiveness. In addition to sharing her testimony, Shadia speaks on a variety of topics, always encouraging and challenging others to embrace the plan and purpose God has for each one of us. Shadia was born in New York City, holds a Bachelors’ Degree in Psychology, Masters Degree in Criminal Justice, and has lived in New York, Las Vegas, and Morocco. Shadia currently resides in San Jose, CA, where she is an active member of Venture Christian Church, raises funds and awareness for her local Christ-centered Pregnancy Center, is a member of Operation Outcry, A Cry Without A Voice, and 40-Days for Life.
Book in Progress: NAMELESS NO MORE
Who would name their child “Nameless?” I did. As a scared, pregnant 15-year old girl, I believed the lies that the child living within me was nothing but a lifeless mass. The nightmare of my abortion experience left me suicidal, withdrawn and incapable of fully loving another human being. Twenty-five years later, after signing up for an abortion recovery retreat, I stumbled upon a child’s name on the internet:
Anamika, meaning “Nameless.” Struck with the realization my child had remained nameless for 25 years, I poured my heart out to God who gently told me, “It’s time to give your child a new name.” In the process, I discovered that the web of guilt, fear and lies I had woven around my heart to keep my abortion a secret had instead imprisoned me. One by one, I removed the twisted layers of lies and shame until I came face to face with the truth of what really held me captive. At the retreat, a miraculous encounter paved the road towards forgiveness, healing and ultimately, true freedom.
