That Girl Meets Ericka Murria: A Beacon of Resilience and Advocacy

By Natasha Lee.

When it comes to power, influence, and authenticity, Ericka Murria embodies it all. What That Girl loves most about Ericka is her unwavering ability to stand in her purpose and lead with passion, even after enduring unimaginable hardships. Bruised by the harsh realities of the world but never broken, Ericka has transformed her pain into purpose, becoming a fierce advocate for those overcoming abuse, sexual assault, and the challenges that life often throws at the most vulnerable.

Her story is not just one of survival but of transformation, love, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Ericka's advocacy extends beyond words; she puts action behind her beliefs, tirelessly working to uplift those who are often forgotten. Whether through her nonprofit Supreme Transitions or her work with national organizations, Ericka is a force, leading the charge for change with care and compassion.

This is not just a woman who has faced adversity—this is a woman who has faced it head-on and turned it into a movement, helping countless others reclaim their voices and power. We stand in awe of Ericka's authenticity, strength, and commitment to making the world a better, safer place for all.

More recently, Ericka celebrated the grand opening of her very own office space, a pivotal milestone for Supreme Transitions that allowed her to better serve the community she holds so dear. But if that wasn't enough, Ericka took her mission global, stretching her heart and commitment to those in need. This summer, she and her team embarked on a two-week journey to Alabama for a special assignment that left participants in awe and in tears as they experienced a powerful healing journey through history.

Entitled "Supreme Transitions Presents Healing is a Journey: Visible History Immersive Healing Education Experience," this groundbreaking project explored the impact of historical trauma on Black survivors. From the days of slavery to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, Ericka's immersive experience delved into the legacy of trauma while empowering survivors on their personal healing journeys. The goal was clear: to enhance services for Black survivors and deepen the understanding of total well-being in culturally specific care for participants and staff.

We are proud to introduce the phenomenal Ericka Murria: From Survivor to Advocate—Transforming Lives and Communities.

Ericka, Can you tell us about your background and the journey that led you to become a CEO?

I grew up on the westside of Detroit with my parents and a strong bond with maternal and paternal grandmothers (Frances & Dorothy). My family instilled a strong sense of community and Christian values. I attended Caring Temple MBC, where I was baptized at 12. I was the child that called the utility company for my grandparents to pay the bills, assist community members with similar issues and assist my grandmother in the kitchen as she cooked large Sunday dinners and for community events. I jokingly say that I've been cooking and packing plates as long as I was tall enough to reach the top of the stove. My family has always set me apart, encouraged my leadership, and supported my personal goals.  

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry?

This career and within this industry literally has always been a part of my life long before it could be a career or that I would be working as a community leader. As I grew in ministry at my local church, I learned the phrase "Willing worker" & "Community of Helps". As I reached the age of 20 years old, I prayed for a community resource centre that was a one stop shop to meet the needs of women and children experiencing domestic violence. God gave me the name "Supreme Transitions" as a ministry within my church where I assisted people with leads and referrals to support services, assistance with resume writing and second-hand interview clothes. I had no clue that what was being birthed was a nonprofit organization that would assist victims and survivors nationally or that I would reach women internationally. 

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges was that I was extremely low-income as a single mother of two daughters early on. The welfare-to-work program took priority over completing my collegiate goals so that I could find stable housing, assistance with bill pay, and other supportive services. My mother passed away when I was 16 years old, I found out that I was pregnant with my 1st child just before my senior year of high school started. I moved out of my grandmother's home after my daughter's 6-month doctor's appointment and have been on my own ever since. Couch surfing, sleeping in my car and living in a homeless shelter until I could get approved for Section 8 housing assistance. 

With each resource I found, something within the guidelines always disqualified me. I was too old, too young, earned a high school diploma, or did not have a college degree etc. It always seemed to be something that blocked the seemingly opened doors. However, I almost always met a person a day or week later who needed the same resource that I had not qualified for and could assist the person with achieving their goal.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that significantly impacted your path?

After overcoming homelessness and job insecurity, I started a company as a gig party promoter and nightlife events curator in Detroit. While hosting these events, I saw many young women overindulge in the party scene and many women taken advantage of. I knew something wasn't right. I was afraid for my daughters to grow up and do some of the same things if I continued to work in that industry and normalize all of the risks that come along with it. 

I attended an event catering to women entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses who were victims and survivors of domestic violence. Although, at the time, I did not have knowledge or understanding of my experiences of domestic violence, I registered and attended. At this event the keynote speaker asked each of the attendees to stand, say their name and business and one thing they wished to get from this conference. I was prepared with my elevator pitch and sat at the back of the room. 

Once my table was called, I noticed that everyone who stood before my turn had all said, "Hi, my name is & Im a survivor of". That was frustrating because I was there to learn and network versus hearing what people had survived. It was my turn, and my elevator pitch went right out of my head. For the 1st time, I publicly acknowledged that I was a survivor (#1) of domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness, lack of education, and the list went on. It was almost as if word soup was being regurgitated from my belly. The event host rushed to me while I was talking, coming completely undone, and wrapped her arms around me. She told me that I was ok and that she would help me. Her name is Kalyn Risker (Fahie). 

Kalyn met with me weekly to learn about my business goals and mentored me into becoming who I am today. Through this mentorship, I was introduced to national trailblazers in the anti-violence against women movement. I have been professionally trained and positioned for National advocacy for the Black community in trauma-informed, culturally specific care—a degree that money cannot pay for.  

How would you describe your leadership style?

I like to consider myself a democratic coach (giggles). I am a grassroots organizer at my core, and I put people first. I am very passionate about developing people for the future as community leaders and within their personal goals. I share everything that I learn. I prefer consensus in a group for decision-making. I see gifts and talents in people that they may not see within themselves, and I encourage greatness.

What is your vision for the future of your company?

I see local growth and programmatic expansion, as well as extensions of our philosophy and service provision into other underserved communities. Eventually, I would like a housing program in Detroit, MI, that offers culturally specific and trauma-informed wrap-around support services. I would also like a BIPOC training institute for emerging leaders within this industry.

How do you foster innovation and creativity within your team?

Because I believe that everything is possible, I listen to ideas, ask probing questions, and connect people with resources, support, and connections that will accomplish the goal.

Can you share any strategies you use to maintain a healthy work-life balance?

I meditate in the morning. I go to the gym for two hours every morning to walk on the treadmill. I laugh a lot. I am intentional about doing things I love that aren't connected to "work", like attending comedy shows and live music concerts, and I'm intentional about attending family events if I am in town. Above all else, I prioritize napping and spending time with my daughters. I love falling in love!! When I am in love, I enjoy cooking for my person, catering to them and having long talks.

What are some of the accomplishments you are most proud of as a FEMALE CEO?

I am most proud of every acknowledgement and award I have received from local agencies, community service groups, and my peers in Detroit. Nothing is small to me. I think the less-known awards by my community and peers mean the most because I work for them. I don't work for huge accolades. It's the simple thank you and hug from a survivor's child that warms my heart the most.

On a larger scale, I am proud of the international recognition of the HBO documentary "I am Evidence". When I saw Niecy Nash quote me at the Emmys, I couldn't breathe, and receiving sunflowers and a healing stone from Erykah Badu was a slice of heaven. 

Today, my biggest accomplishment is the opening of Supreme Transitions: The Life Resource Center in Detroit, MI, for Black survivors of domestic and sexual violence. 

How has your leadership influenced the company's culture and success?

I believe that I lead by example as I continue to grow, serve, and heal. I believe that our philosophy is a lifestyle and it cannot be faked. I encourage all of our team to be everything that they want to be and invest in their healing above doing the work.

Can you discuss any community or social impact initiatives your company is involved in?

I currently serve as a consultant to Ujima, Futures without Violence, Caminar Latino: LUPE, two cohorts for the intersection of child welfare and domestic violence. The Accountability dialogues task force with the White House Children's Bureau and Women Transforming Families. 

What role do you believe female leaders play in shaping the future of business?

I believe that Black female leaders' voices are needed.

Natasha Lee is a visionary, entrepreneur and advocate for all things SHE led. She has built businesses, raised a family and worked alongside some of the most inspirational women globally.

Her #ThatGirl brand is all about strong female leadership, and she wears what she preaches! Have you seen the red lipstick cute T-shirts?! From an early age (She was an 8-year-old DIVA) to the present day, she worked toward her dreams. Natasha doesn't allow anything to hold her back. You can read all about her journey to becoming That Girl here and if you want to ask her any questions drop into The Community