About Our Founder

Erika

Being a voice against violence, I will be! Speaking up for the weak, I will do! Living my life with purpose, I am!

Erika is a native of Illinois, now currently residing in Georgia, she is the founder of P.U.R.S.E. Foundation and a youth motivational speaker who focuses on teen dating violence. She obtained a M.A. degree in Political & Justice Studies and a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice. Erika founded P.U.R.S.E. after the tragic death of a college friend, Nova Henry. At the time of Nova’s death, Erika was in an abusive relationship that could have claimed her life. Nova’s death, made Erika reflect upon her own situation, and gave her the strength to leave an unhealthy relationship and encouraged her, to help others facing the issue of abuse.

Soon after Nova’s death, Erika had a dream about Nova along with the word P.U.R.S.E., which was spelled out in black bold letters with periods between each letter. Uncertain as to why she had a dream about Nova and the word P.U.R.S.E., during the same day, she came across an article featuring Nova’s mother, Yolan Henry. Yolan was carrying Nova’s purse as a symbolic gesture and stated she must now serve as a voice for her daughter and granddaughter who were both victims of domestic violence. At that moment, Erika realized she was given a mission and purpose inspired by a dream, and now… P.U.R.S.E. is a confirmed reality.