LEILANI MILLER, FOUNDER

Leilani Miller is a force of inspiration and compassion, a woman whose heart beats for the betterment of her community and beyond. Leilani, a true beacon of hope, has dedicated her life to uplifting others and ensuring that every individual reaches their fullest potential, living out their dreams.

In 2023 Leilani, along with Ehmanda Ramsey and DanVonique Bletson-Reed founded “Own Your Shine” with the vision of honoring those women in African American history that with great courage overcame insurmountable odds and became change makers in history. Their vision is to encourage women in their communities to remember those that came before them and move forward in their purpose and vision, letting nothing stop them, because they are “surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses” upon whose shoulders they can stand on. 

Leilani has always been invested in the lives in her community. Her desire is to see that all reach their potential and accomplish their dreams, encouraging others to overcome obstacles and preserve. After leading many community programs in Chino Hills and receiving recognition by the United States Senate, the California legislature and her community as showing strength of character and sacrifices by choosing to get involved and make a difference. She was awarded a congressional certificate for enhancing the quality of life, showing strength of character and compassion for those less fortunate.

In 2004 after being ordained a baptist minister in California, Leilani was called to the Pacific Northwest with vision in her heart to help homeless woman and their children. She and her husband founded Millennia Ministries which became home to over 400-500 women and their children. Millennia Ministries grew with the goal of meeting needs, transforming lives by focusing on meeting the needs of those marginalized in her surrounding communities with food, clothing, housing advocacy, counseling and other resources. Over the years Millennia has gone into thousands of homes delivering groceries to families in transition, seniors, vets and serving the unhoused. She has traveled to Africa, South America and Mexico ministering to women and children, providing resources to those in need. She has received numerous awards from her community in Everett, Washington, and in 2020 received an honorary doctorate.