Triumph Over Darkness: Brejoya Smarr's Journey
FEA
TURE
Brejoya Smarr was born on January 27, 1985, in the sunny city of Daytona Beach, FL, to her loving parents, Stephen and Brenda Perry. She has a close-knit family, including her supportive spouse, Charles Smarr, and their beautiful daughters, G'lia and Joyelle Foster. Brejoya is also blessed with siblings, including her sister Regina Giddens and brother Pernell Perry.
Brejoya's educational journey led her to Brewton Parker College in Mt. Vernon, GA, where she earned her Bachelor of Music degree. Her passion for teaching, singing, dancing, walking, gardening, and spending quality time with family shapes her vibrant personality. She is deeply involved in her community and has dedicated herself to various pursuits, such as her role as the Founder and Director of the Daytona Beach Music Academy and Director of Arts at Transforming Our Tomorrow Inc., a nonprofit providing scholarships to underserved youth.
Throughout her career, Brejoya has achieved remarkable milestones, including being recognized as the FUTURES First Year Teacher of the Year for Secondary Volusia County Schools in 2011. She has also received nominations as one of the Top 5 Best Music Lessons by Macaroni Kid from 2014 to 2016. Additionally, Brejoya is a published author, contributing to the literary world with her work in "The Body of Art."
I believe I am called to minister through education and the arts.
Actively participating in professional associations like the National Federation of Music Clubs and Toastmasters International, Brejoya envisions opening a Fine Arts Youth Center in Daytona Beach as part of her future goals. Her core values are rooted in her faith as a disciple of Jesus Christ, guided by Philippians 3:14, inspiring her to press toward the mark of the high calling in Christ Jesus.
Brejoya, a mental health survivor, faced a challenging journey when diagnosed with Postpartum Psychosis in 2008 after the birth of her first daughter. During this difficult time, she found herself in a Baker Act situation and was prescribed medications that had varying effects—some made her sleep all day, while others made her feel restless. Despite the odds, less than six months later, Brejoya discovered she was pregnant again, and doctors warned of a high risk of another psychotic episode. Refusing to accept this fate, she chose a different path, steadfastly praying her way through, breaking free from an unhealthy relationship, and ultimately overcoming the obstacles in her mental health journey. Remarkably, it has been 15 years since Brejoya experienced any episodes or required mental health medications. Her inspiring story underscores the transformative power of lifestyle changes and resilience in overcoming personal challenges.
Engaged in community activities at Faith Life International Church, where she contributes to the youth music ministry and praise & worship team, Brejoya exemplifies her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
As a fun fact, Brejoya's ears have a unique feature— they move up when she smiles, earning her the endearing childhood nickname "Bambi." Named after a combination of her mother's first and middle names, Brenda and Joyce, Brejoya carries a legacy shaped by familial connections and faith. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to both education and the arts.
1808 W International Speedway Blvd #301
Daytona Beach, FL 32119
Tel: 386-243-5532
© 2023 by Kenneth Grant Inzpirations