In honor of Women’s History Month, Atwood Magazine has invited artists to participate in a series of essays reflecting on identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.

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Today, singer/songwriter Maya Elizabeth shares a personal exploration of healing, from self-doubt and anxiety through sisterhood and music, celebrating the collective strength found when women uplift and support one another, in a special essay for Atwood Magazine’s Women’s History Month series!

Maya Elizabeth is a singer/songwriter, artist, mentor, and a voting member of the Recording Academy. She’s also co-creator of an empowering event series called From M.E. To You: A Mental Health Concert. Since six years old, she’s used songwriting for self-expression, and in conjunction with therapy, to heal her self-esteem, cope with anxiety, and own her unique sound. With a business marketing background (Howard University School of Business Valedictorian c/o 2016), she has grown her independent music career to impact a continually growing global audience. Elizabeth released her debut album, Soulhouette: This Is M.E. in 2016. In 2023, “It’s Ok to Be Falling,” a fan favorite, sparked her “From M.E. To You” mental-health concert series. Other wide-reaching anthems include “Sister Song” (2024), “I Do” (2024) and her EP Space to Fill (2021).

As a performer, worship leader, and mentor, Elizabeth uses her platform to spread healing.truth.+love. Her inspirational soul music especially resonates with the woman who wants to heal her broken self-image, embrace her true calling, and live a life she loves. Whether you’re watching her perform or streaming Maya Elizabeth on your favorite platforms, you can’t help but feel seen, refreshed, and empowered.

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A WOMAN’S HISTORY WITH WORTHINESS

by Maya Elizabeth

I’ve struggled deeply with Self-Worth.

She’s timid and unaware of her power. Yet, somehow, she’s strong enough to shift my countenance and shut me up. She tells me I don’t belong in the competition. She amplifies Doubt’s echo in my mind. As a woman, I’ll bet she’s done the same to you at some point. It’s incredibly human to experience this inner turmoil—the weight of imposter syndrome, the pressure to meet expectations, and the fight against wounds that sometimes make us feel less than enough.

Instead of ceding in this great struggle, or vilifying her altogether, I’m learning to rebuild Self-Worth by replacing her toxic core beliefs. The most effective way to do that, I think, is in sisterhood. The women around me – the incredible, powerful sisters in my life and in this music industry – reminded me that I am worthy, that my voice does matter, and that I have a place in this world. I’ve watched so many of you step into your power, and embrace your authenticity with strength and grace. Whether we know each other or not, as you’ve risen, you’ve lifted me, too.

This has been my inspiration: Seeing other women show up, thrive, use their voices, and support one another beautifully.

I want to shout out Kayla Waters, Maurette Brown Clark, Dr. Chelsey Green, and so many other amazing women in music I esteem. Their warm spirits remind me we’re not competing at all – we all belong and we all bring something unique and invaluable. Their artistry inspires me to stay true to myself and keep pushing forward with my own voice. For those who are unfamiliar, I’ve featured them and others on a Spotify playlist called “Sisters You Should Support.”

Regardless of your industry or age, we need each other. Finding myself in healthy sister circles has been a huge part of healing my Self-Worth. When we make space to be vulnerable and listen attentively, we take each other’s Doubts captive and offer truths in exchange to help each other rewire toxic thoughts. Healing isn’t just an individual journey – it’s a collective one.

This is the energy I channel into my music. My mission has always been to spread healing.truth.+love. I want my music to be a safe space for women who are on the same journey—restoring their self-image, fighting anxiety, and searching for purpose. I want my music to remind you that you are enough. You have the strength to drown out Doubt. You deserve to find joy in your authentic self, and the world is better for it.

One of the songs I’m most excited to share with you, especially in light of Women’s History Month, is “Sister Song.” This song is a celebration of all the women who have inspired me and supported me along the way. It’s a tribute to my own mom and sisters, who are actually featured as the background vocalists on the recording.

The response to “Sister Song” has been incredible. I’ve received messages from women just like you – women in the 24-44 age range, who are dealing with anxiety, self-doubt, and the complexities of navigating life. I’ve heard from so many of you who have shared how my lyrics resonate with your own struggles, and how the song has given you a sense of empowerment and community. That connection means the world to me. You are the reason I keep creating. If my words can help you feel seen, heard, and validated, then I know I’m doing the work I was meant to do.

The video for “Sister Song” premiered earlier this month, and I’m beyond excited for you to see it. The video is a visual celebration of the power, beauty, and strength we all carry within us as women. It’s about showing up for each other and lifting one another up – just as I’ve witnessed from the women who’ve walked with me in this journey.

So, my Sisters, I want to invite you to join me in celebrating the strength we share. Take a moment to honor your own journey—no matter where you are, or how hard it may feel at times. Cherish those who’ve surrounded and inspired you. They’re not your competition, but a reflection of what you, too, can accomplish. Know that I see you. Let’s not fight Self-Worth. Instead, let’s heal her in ourselves and in one another.

And, if my music, my words, or my journey can help you heal, I am deeply grateful. You can listen to “Sister Song” on your favorite streaming platform, and share with someone to invite her on this journey.

In healing.truth.+love.,

Maya Elizabeth

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