BIO

CARNELA RENÉE HILL is a powerhouse of purpose — a faith-driven leader, educator, and creative entrepreneur. She moves with equal grace in the pulpit, the classroom, and the boardroom. With over two decades of entrepreneurial experience and a double master’s degree, she leads with wisdom, faith, and courage.

Carnela is an award-winning entrepreneur, speaker, chaplain, and philanthropist. She has dedicated her life to empowering small and women-owned businesses, educators, and marginalized communities around the world. She is the author and co-author of several books, including Walking Afraid, Walking Afraid Journal, and The Fight: Declaring to Win.

Her 25 years in business and deep faith allow her to mentor and coach others through crisis, change, and growth. As a former interior design and business instructor, she combines creativity and strategy to bring order, beauty, and restoration to spaces and lives.

Carnela has received numerous honors, including the NAWBO National Advocacy of the Year Award, the Susan Hager Legacy Award, and the Gillian Rudd Advocacy Award. She holds a Master of Science in Computer Sciencefrom North Carolina A&T State University, an Executive MBA from UNC Chapel Hill, a Certificate in Project Management from George Washington University, and a Master of Arts in Christian Practice from Duke Divinity School. She is also certified in Mental Health First Aid for adults and youth.

As an international speaker and inspirational strategist, Carnela has inspired audiences in Israel, Italy, and Kenya. She also had the once-in-a-lifetime honor of decorating the White House for Christmas.

She is the CEO and Principal Designer of CR Hill Design Group and CEO of C3 Impact Strategies, which provides coaching, chaplaincy, and consulting services for leaders, startups, and organizations.

A dedicated advocate, she has spoken on behalf of small business owners and interior designers before the White House. She has also served multiple terms on the NAWBO Greater Raleigh Board.

Carnela is the Founder and Senior Pastor of Be Restored Church, a non-denominational ministry focused on healing and transformation. She also founded Thrive Resource Center, a nonprofit that equips youth and young adults to overcome challenges and thrive in life and work.

She is a true missionary, serving in nations and in the marketplace. Her ministry reaches beyond walls, meeting people where they are.

Carnela is a servant leader with a heart to see people whole, healthy, and walking in purpose. She enjoys reading, traveling, shopping, and spending time with her family. Her passion is helping others succeed.

Her life motto is:

“Be purposeful with your passion, and passionate about your purpose.”