And Still We Rise!
This year, our theme is “And Still We Rise!” We asked our honorees to reflect on how they have risen above challenges—both professionally and personally. Their responses honor the obstacles they faced, the strength they discovered, and the determination that carried them forward.
“Rising in the midst of personal and business challenges begins with where I place my trust. I rise because my faith is rooted in God. When uncertainty, pressure, or adversity tries to shake my confidence, I lean on His promises. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me” (Psalm 28:7). My faith reminds me that I am never walking alone and that strength is renewed when I surrender my fears and move forward in obedience.
I also rise because of determination. Challenges do not define me—my response to them does. Determination fuels my ability to keep going when the road feels heavy, and progress feels slow. I have learned that perseverance is not about avoiding hardship, but about standing firm, adapting, and pressing on with resilience and grace.
In business, I rise because I genuinely love what I do. Purpose gives my work meaning beyond profit or recognition. Serving others, educating, and making a difference in people’s lives fuels my passion and keeps me committed even during difficult seasons. Loving my work allows me to show up authentically, lead with compassion, and remain focused on impact rather than obstacles.
Through faith, determination, and purpose, I rise—and no challenge has the final word.”
Valda Braziel
Founder, Braziel Insurance Benefits
Valda Braziel is a licensed Health Insurance Professional with extensive experience helping individuals navigate the often confusing world of Medicare. In 2025, she celebrates 20 years of dedicated service, leadership, and impact in the Medicare industry.
As the founder and proprietor of Braziel Insurance Benefits, Valda has earned a reputation for compassionate care, honest guidance, and exceptional service. Her professional designation as a Certified Medicare Insurance Planner™ (CMIP) reflects her deep knowledge and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Throughout her career, she has witnessed thousands of seniors struggle to understand Medicare. Valda has made it her mission to turn confusion into confidence by making the process clear, personal, and empowering. Her clients often say she doesn’t just explain Medicare—she opens doors to understanding and informed decision-making.
Most recently, Valda became an author, publishing her first book, What, When, Why, and How… Unlocking Medicare Like a Pro—a resource designed to make Medicare simpler and easier to understand for those who need it most. At the heart of her work is a passion for people and a belief that seniors deserve not just options, but guidance, compassion, and a trusted partner in their healthcare journey.
Beyond her professional calling, Valda is a woman of faith, a wife, a mother, and a grandmother who is guided by integrity and purpose in everything she does. She has been married to Pastor Melvin Braziel for 37 years, and together they serve their church and community with heart and humility.
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