About Nelia

I am Nelia—visionary, truth-walker, and founder of Carnelian Heart.

My journey began not with a plan, but with a rupture—the profound loss of my mother. That grief cracked me open, awakening something within. It led me to the lioness goddess Sekhmet, whose fierce compassion became both mirror and medicine. Through her archetype, I reclaimed my voice, remembered my power, and stepped into the sacred fire of my own becoming.

From those ashes, Carnelian Heart was born—a soul-first mission, a sanctuary of storytelling, journals, healing, and truth. My newest book, Soul-First, is an invitation into this path—a guide for those who feel called to live aligned, awake, and unapologetically whole.

I write for the seekers, the sensitive, and the strong—the ones who walk between worlds, carry invisible weight, and long to remember who they truly are. Through my words, my work, and my community, I hold space for transformation—for the courageous return to soul.

In my professional life, I’ve spent over 25 years in Food Safety and Quality Management, working across corporate leadership roles with a fierce dedication to governance and excellence. For a long time, I believed I had to choose between the boardroom and the soul. But I’ve learned this: your soul walks with you everywhere. Leadership and spirituality are not separate—they’re deeply intertwined when you lead with integrity.

Beyond the titles and timelines, I am a proud mother, stepmother, and nanna to a beautiful, blended family. Life is full and sometimes messy, but through sacred habits, meditation, movement, and prayer, I return to presence each day. My soul-first practices guide me through the ever-shifting terrain of career, family, creativity, and growth.

This is my life.

Raw. Real. Soul-led.

I believe in fierce softness, in the fire of truth, and in the quiet power of choosing yourself.

And I’m here to help you remember yours.