A Few Words
About Me
Inspiring joy, faith, and purpose—one message at a time
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord… – Jeremiah 29:11
Hello there! I’m Demetria Gilkey — preacher, author, and inspirational speaker devoted to encouraging hearts, strengthening faith, and inspiring joy and restoration through the truth of God’s Word.
I’m based in Louisville, Kentucky, where I live with my amazing husband, Aaron — my college sweetheart from Western Kentucky University (Go Tops!) — and our lively, joyful daughter, Bellamy. Together, we’re truly three peas in a pod!
My journey to ministry has been anything but ordinary. For years, I pursued success on my own terms — from corporate America to owning my own salon — yet still felt unfulfilled. I had built a life that looked good on the outside, but something was missing on the inside. It wasn’t until I surrendered my plans to God that I discovered the peace, clarity, and purpose I had been searching for all along.
I’m also the author of two books:
📘 Lessons Learned: A Woman’s Devotional for Living a Peaceful and Joyous Life
📗 THRIVE: Your Three-Step Guide to Living a Fearless and Confident Life
Both books are written from real-life experiences — inspired by seasons of pain, perseverance, and personal growth — with the hope that others can find encouragement, healing, and inspiration for their own journey.
Today, I use my voice — through preaching, writing, and speaking — to remind others that God’s love brings restoration, hope, and joy, and that transformation is possible in every season of life.
Sharing messages of encouragement, healing, and restoration through the power of Christ.
Whether I’m sharing a message from the pulpit, speaking to women of faith, or inspiring others through my writing, my mission is the same: to encourage hearts, strengthen faith, and remind people that healing, joy, and restoration are possible through Christ.
God used every twist, turn, and detour of my life — even cosmetology school! — to shape the woman I am today. Those years behind the chair weren’t wasted. They taught me to listen deeply, love genuinely, and see the beauty in others — inside and out.
Over time, God revealed a higher calling — to not only help people thrive in the visible parts of life, but to heal, grow, and live fully in the freedom and joy He provides. That calling led me to pursue my Master’s in Theology, deepen my study of Scripture, and ultimately, in 2024, to be licensed to preach the Gospel. Today, my passion is helping people experience restoration, embrace faith, and live with hope, joy, and purpose.