I met Ocielia through pageantry! She is a former pageant coach, wife, ordained minister, former
Miss Black USA, author, etiquette consultant and founder of More Than a Pretty Face International. For more than two decades, she has addressed audiences in corporations, schools, and churches throughout the US and Kenya. Currently serving as Women’s Chaplain at Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County, she is a graduate of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, where she earned her Masters in Theological Studies. Ocielia has been featured in EBONY, Marie Claire, and Parenting Teens.
She was the youngest woman named an Unsung Hero by EBONY Magazine for her programs and impact on young women in the state of Texas. She is honored to equip women and girls through Bible studies, books, conference speaking, and mentorship. Between speaking and coaching, she spends time with her husband, Roderic Sprowl, and joins him in ministry to corporations, youth, and families in Fort Worth.
The biggest lesson Ocielia has learned as a wife is that a healthy and fulfilling marriage can not happen without practicing forgiveness. As two imperfect individuals coming together as one, it is inevitable that offenses will occur. These moments of conflict and hurt are part of the journey, but it’s how we handle them that truly defines the strength of our relationship. If we allow offenses to fester in our hearts, they act like a poison, slowly eroding the love and trust we have built. Unresolved hurt can lead to creating a barrier that separates us from our spouse. Over time, this can harden our hearts, making it hard to experience the intimacy and trust our marriage needs. Instead, we must make a daily effort to let go of the small and large grievances, and to focus on the love we have for our spouse. This daily commitment to love and forgiveness ensures that the weeks, months, and years take care of themselves.
You can follow Ocielia’s socials on IG @morethanaprettyfaceco and @ocielia.
