“Know that you are a gift and worth the investment.” – Naomi Joy Nelson
Gem story was written by: BOBO Marketing Services
The “joy” of this Gem is supplied, not just by her name, but also by her personality! Naomi Joy Nelson is a soulful saxophonist, published author, music educator, and Christian minister who operates under the name Naomi Joy Music. She enjoys performing for all types of events—weddings, corporate get-togethers, private events, and more. In her free time, she also runs a nonprofit called Joy Journey to Freedom, which serves as a follow-up to her book about her personal struggles and how she turned around her life.
“My mission is to inspire others through song, through music, and also to liberate people through my story of hope and freedom.”
Recently published in the Summer of 2020, Naomi’s book, “My Joy Journey”, is a testament to how God healed and freed her from her past trauma of ministerial and marital abuse. Her story is one of hope and liberation through Jesus Christ, and she hopes it will inspire others battling with similar internal struggles.
Naomi firmly believes that “everybody should have a foundation.” She recommends that everyone should surround themselves with people who support their vision and talent. In Naomi’s case, part of that support system includes a photographer and a trusted publisher and editor. However, her greatest support comes from her parents, Willie and Theresa. Growing up in a tight-knit, Christian family provided Naomi with the encouragement, wisdom, and prayers she needed to get to where she is today!
“It’s very important, no matter what it is you do, that you feel empowered and that you have a support system behind you.”
Sharing Her Heart with People
Naomi has been a school music educator for the past 12 years in Orlando. Her main focus is to share her passion for instilling wisdom, freedom, and skills in the lives of others by means of her music, which she uses to tell powerful stories.
Recently, Naomi released a new jazz song called “Feeling Good” which was produced by Jarvis Brown. She also works with another producer named Ron Jenkins on her Christian singles. She first started playing the saxophone at age 11, and at that time she was only allowed to listen to Kenny G—who to this day remains a big inspiration for her music. Naomi truly enjoys spreading the power of God with her music; it gives her an all-encompassing purpose, and she’s honored to be living her dream.
Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Take Note
Believe it or not, Naomi Joy became an entrepreneur without a plan! While it may be more conventional (for some people at least) to prepare with a solid business plan, Naomi just kept going through the next open door, and gradually her life unfolded in front of her. Really, both methods are effective, as long as you take action to get the life you want.
Naomi suggests starting by writing down your vision and who you want to become. Identify what it is you are seeking in life, and then make small actionable steps toward achieving that plan. Also, having a vision is a good start. Additionally, you want to learn how to manage your time and budget your rates, and also take advantage of the free information out there to stay knowledgeable.
“Know that you are a gift and worth the investment.”
Naomi’s dream is to do something that has never been done before. She believes that everyone’s path must be uniquely their own. Despite being afraid of heights, Naomi once had a dream that she was taking a dive off of a tall bridge. The thing is, she landed in the water and all the fear was gone. In fact, she was swimming with dolphins! That dream actually symbolizes what she believes about facing fear: Taking a jump can lead to all the blessings that accompany a leap of faith.
Listen to Naomi’s old-school approach to music now by following @NaomiJoyMusic on Facebook. Be sure to check out the beautiful music and stories from this fearless, soulful Gem!