We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dr. Terika Mercedes. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dr. Terika below.
Dr. Terika, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Parents play a huge role in our development as youngsters and sometimes that impact follows us into adulthood and into our lives and careers. Looking back, what’s something you think you parents did right?
My parents made the courageous decision to migrate from Jamaica to the United States four decades ago with their four children, and from the very beginning, they set the tone for our journey. They made it clear that we were not just coming to America to exist but to thrive with purpose. They instilled in us a deep sense of responsibility to achieve not just the American dream but also to occupy our sphere of influence and walk in our God-given purpose.
Because of their example, I’ve approached my career and life with a clear sense of mission and faith. Whether it’s helping others tell their stories or launching new ventures, I carry their lessons with me: to work hard, trust God, and leave a meaningful impact wherever I go.”
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am Dr. Terika Mercedes, a multifaceted leader dedicated to empowering individuals through faith, education, and personal development. Over the past 25 years, I’ve served in various capacities, including author, educator, entrepreneur, conference speaker, and humanitarian as well as speak English, Spanish and Portuguese.
Journey into My Calling
My path has been deeply rooted in ministry and education. As an Apostle to the Nations, I walk in the five-fold ministry, guiding others in their spiritual journeys. My secular career includes roles such as classroom teacher, track coach, Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Additionally, I’ve contributed to the Massachusetts Department of Secondary Education as a RETELL Instructor, supporting educators from classroom teachers to school superintendents.
Organizations and Services
I founded several organizations to address diverse needs:
A.M. Ministries Inc.: A faith-based organization committed to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ and empowering individuals to fulfill their divine purpose.
Flowing Rivers International Church: A community-focused church in Lawrence, MA, dedicated to spiritual growth and community outreach.
TSM Training Institute: TSM is the Hybrid Premier Alternative Education Training Center in New England. Our comprehensive environmental training program is fully accredited by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards. It is offered in English and Spanish, making it accessible to a diverse range of students. We are committed to providing affordable education and training options to help individuals enhance their career paths and secure living-wage jobs.
Unique Approach
What sets my work apart is the integration of faith-based principles with practical life skills. I believe in addressing the holistic needs of individuals—spiritual, educational, and personal—to foster comprehensive growth. My programs are designed to inspire transformation, encourage leadership, and promote community engagement.
Proudest Achievements
One of my most fulfilling accomplishments is the publication of my book, The Day I Sat Down, which reflects my commitment to guiding others in their personal and spiritual journeys.
Additionally, witnessing the positive impact of my mentorship programs on individuals’ lives brings me immense joy and motivates me to continue this work.
Message to Potential Clients and Followers
My mission is to empower you to discover and walk in your God-given purpose. Through tailored coaching, educational programs, and spiritual guidance, I aim to equip you with the tools necessary for success in all areas of life. I invite you to connect with me and explore how we can embark on this transformative journey together.
For more information, please visit www.amminc.org.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
My journey has been marked by significant moments of faith and bold decisions. One of the biggest pivots I made was leaving my six-figure position as a building principal to step into full-time ministry. It was a leap of faith, but I knew that my calling to empower others through spiritual guidance and education was greater than any financial security.
Another major pivot came after launching TSM Training Institute. Initially, we offered only in-person courses, but I quickly realized the need for more accessible options. We transitioned to a hybrid program, allowing individuals from across the New England region to participate. This shift not only expanded our reach but also made it possible to serve more people effectively, meeting them where they are—both physically and in their personal growth journey.
These decisions weren’t easy, but they taught me that when you step out in faith and adapt to changing needs, the impact can be far greater than imagined.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
In my book The Day I Sat Down, published in 2024, I dedicated a section to the concept of scaffolds. I wrote: ‘God can put particular people in your life as nets or scaffolds based on the season you are in, for the sole purpose of helping you maintain posture while going through. They are not your God! They are not to be idolized! They are to be appreciated, seen for who they are and the purpose of their assignments, and honored in that manner.’
This concept has been a transformative lesson in my life and is something I now teach in my 10-week S.I.T (Seek, Intentional Timing) Coaching Program. For years, I would feel upset or abandoned when people left, especially during seasons when I felt I needed them most. However, I’ve come to understand that, like scaffolds in construction, people often serve specific purposes for different seasons in our lives. They help us grow, support us, and sometimes challenge us—but they are not meant to stay forever.
I had to learn to appreciate their role without clinging to it. Their departure is often a sign of growth—for both them and me. This perspective has been instrumental in my own development, helping me mature in relationships and embrace the ebb and flow of connections as part of God’s divine plan. It’s a powerful lesson in gratitude, release, and understanding the purpose of relationships in our journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amminc.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drterikamercedes/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terika.smith.94
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-terika-smith
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ApostleMercedes
- Other: https://tsm_training.workcertified.com
Image Credits
The PR Networker Agency + TSM Marketing