FOUNDER / Ministry Director

Makenzi is a preacher and Bible teacher originally from Seattle, Washington, with roots in both New York and Los Angeles. She is the founder of Abide, a ministry she launched in 2020 to help women know Christ more deeply by abiding in His Word. 

She holds a Master's in Biblical Studies from Reformed Theological Seminary and regularly preaches, teaches the Bible, and leads retreats in both church and para-church settings. Makenzi currently serves on the pastoral staff at Vintage Church Pasadena, and will begin her Doctor of Ministry in 2027,

Community Leader: Formation

Glyn lives in Santa Barbara, where her work centers on regenerative agriculture and its potential to positively impact the environment. She is passionate about God’s creation and desires to disciple others to see the fullness of Jesus through the beauty and complexity of nature and everyday life.

Community Leader: Bible Study

Jamilah is a New York City native who works in early childhood education and has a deep desire to grow in her understanding of who the Lord is. As she continues in her own walk with Him, she hopes to encourage other women to discover their identity in Christ and navigate life’s challenges alongside Jesus.

Community Leader: Care + Prayer

A former NYC hip hop dancer, Ashley now lives in Brooklyn with her husband Tomie, where she serves as both a mental health advocate and an ambassador of God’s grace. She is passionate about helping women feel seen, known, and loved as they embrace their identity in Christ and discover comfort and purpose in the steadfast love of Jesus.

Advisory Board

Gemma is a former pastor at Oaks Church in Brooklyn who recently returned to Northern Ireland with her family after 12 years in the U.S., where she lives with her husband John and their five children—Ember, Livi, Finn, Kit and Tobin. She holds a master’s degree in Christian Spiritual Formation and Leadership, works as an adjunct professor with Friends University, offers spiritual direction, and enjoys simple pleasures like baking bread, camping in their Volkswagen Vanagon, and curling up with a good book!