Dr. Nelle L. Richardson (she, her) immigrated to the U.S. from the Caribbean. She is an ordained pastor, motivational speaker, counselor, life coach and self-advocate. Richardson lives with nonvisible disabilities due to two accidents: a traumatic brain injury and neck and back injuries. She is Ms. Wheelchair NY 2018’s godmother and mother of two adult children; a devoted wife; and leader in her community.
Dr. Richardson has worked for the Federation Employment and Guidance Services / NYC LINKS for two decades as a counselor in its Mental Health Unit, and as a case manager for the Criminal Justice Department. Her duties involve evaluating individuals and working with the NYC Supreme Law Judge; the Assistant District Attorney of NYC; and various attorneys, community professionals, parole, probation and other detention centers across New York City.
Dr. Richardson is the founder and CEO of The Will to Win Ministry, a nonprofit organization that empowers professional women and families by releasing negative stigma, hurt and shame associated with many life issues, including disability. Founded in 1997, The Ministry supports individuals and families in the U.S. and internationally, helping people get back on track to lead successful lives. Dr. Richardson also has volunteered her services in her community, addressing suicide prevention among youth in the LGBTQ community, and works with other youth and families through her church. She is completing her first book, Safety in Chaos, to help children find safety when everything around them seems chaotic. She continues to spread love through motivation wherever she goes.
As a motivational speaker, she addresses disability and racial bias. Her motto is to encourage and help others lead a better life one day at a time. Dr. Richardson’s greatest joy is to observe someone moving ahead, through and past his/her/their challenges.