Hadassah Collier’s life is nothing short of extraordinary. Born on October 12, 1980, in Oklahoma, she was adopted at birth during a time when racism was rampant, and the world felt uncertain for a child of color. Raised by Carol and Robert Collier, Hadassah's early years were filled with love, art, and faith. Though her adoption was a well-guarded secret for most of her childhood, she always suspected her roots were elsewhere. At the age of 17, following the death of her mother, she learned the truth — she was adopted. This revelation was the beginning of a journey that would lead her to discover not only her biological family but also her deep connection to her culture, and her unique path to purpose.

​

Despite the uncertainties of her early life, Hadassah grew up surrounded by the love and nurturing of her adoptive family. Her mother, an educator, poured herself into her daughter’s education, fostering a deep appreciation for knowledge and the arts. Hadassah was a child of many talents, playing the harp, dancing, acting, and singing in the choir. She attended performing arts schools in Atlanta, Georgia, where her passion for dance flourished. Her mother, who passed away when Hadassah was just 17, instilled in her the importance of unconditional love and faith. This foundation would carry Hadassah through life’s toughest challenges.

​

Her life’s journey was further shaped by her academic pursuits. She studied dance at Brenau University before obtaining a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Social Science from Ashford University. The next chapter in her educational story led her to a Master’s in Education, a field that would help her continue to influence the lives of others. Throughout her studies, Hadassah remained grounded in her faith and love for people, a commitment that translated into her career.

​

Today, Hadassah is a Brand Manager at Oceans Luxury Realty, where she oversees marketing, branding, and company events. But her career is not just about building a company; it’s about building a community. Through her role, she has become a beacon of light in Daytona Beach, where she hosts free community events, volunteers for Basket Brigade and Toys for Tots, and works closely with organizations like Sophie’s Circle and Halifax Urban Ministries. Her life’s work is dedicated to giving back and uplifting others, whether through her career or her volunteer efforts.

​

Her journey, however, has not been without obstacles. One of the greatest challenges Hadassah faced was the search for her biological roots. Through a DNA test in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, she found her birth mother. That was the beginning of an incredible story of discovery that eventually led her to her father and a whole new family. The sense of completion and belonging she felt after these revelations was a gift that changed her life. Finally, she understood her origin story, filling the empty spaces that had lingered for decades.