We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kwyonnica Frazier. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kwyonnica below.

Kwyonnica, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

One of the greatest things my parents did right was instilling resilience in me. They never pretended life would be easy — instead, they taught me to face challenges head-on and find strength in the struggle. I grew up watching my mom make something out of nothing more times than I can count. No matter what we were going through, she always found a way to provide, protect, and persevere. That quiet strength left a lasting imprint on me.

When I began my own weight loss journey and later founded Bari Angels, those lessons became my foundation. There were times when the process felt overwhelming — moments when I questioned whether I could really keep going. But then I’d hear my mom’s voice reminding me, “You don’t get to stop here.” That simple truth pushed me forward every time I felt like giving up.

My parents didn’t just raise me to survive; they raised me to rise. Their example taught me that perseverance is power, and that mindset has shaped every part of who I am — as a woman, a mother, and now as someone using her story to help others rebuild their own.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Kwyonnica Frazier, and my journey began with one powerful decision — to take my life back. After losing over 200 pounds, I realized that the physical transformation was only the beginning. The real challenge was learning how to live in a new body, rebuild my confidence, and heal the parts of me that weight loss alone couldn’t fix. That realization inspired me to create Bari Angels, a nonprofit organization and supportive community dedicated to helping others navigate life after bariatric surgery.

Through Bari Angels, I provide education, resources, and emotional support for individuals who’ve undergone major weight loss and are learning how to embrace their new selves. Our work focuses on total wellness — not just the body, but the mind and spirit too. We host community discussions, peer mentorship, and events that promote self-love, healthy habits, and accountability. My mission is to make sure no one feels alone on their journey, because I know firsthand how isolating that part of the process can be.

What sets me apart is that I lead with transparency and authenticity. I don’t speak from theory — I speak from experience. I share both the victories and the vulnerable moments because that’s what connects people. My platform isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress and purpose. I’m proud to say that what started as my personal story has grown into a movement that inspires others to believe that transformation is possible, no matter how impossible it may feel.

At the heart of everything I do is the belief that healing starts with honesty and community. I want people to know that they’re not defined by their past or their weight — they’re defined by their willingness to keep showing up for themselves. Bari Angels is a reflection of that truth: a space built on compassion, empowerment, and second chances.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One moment that truly tested my resilience came not during my weight loss, but after it. People often assume that losing over 200 pounds instantly fixes everything — but in reality, that’s when the real work begins. I remember standing in front of the mirror one day, looking at a body that was completely different but still struggling to feel like mine. I had expected to feel unstoppable, but instead, I felt lost. My confidence didn’t automatically come with the weight loss — I had to rebuild it piece by piece.

There were days when I questioned whether I had done enough or whether I was worthy of this new chapter. But instead of retreating, I chose to confront those feelings head-on. I started journaling, sharing my journey publicly, and connecting with others who felt the same way. That vulnerability became my strength. It led me to start Bari Angels, so others wouldn’t have to face those quiet battles alone.

That season taught me that resilience isn’t about always being strong — it’s about showing up even when you feel broken. It’s about giving yourself grace while still choosing to move forward. My journey has reminded me that transformation is ongoing, and that real power comes from embracing every part of the process — the messy, the beautiful, and everything in between.

If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?

Absolutely. I would choose this path again — every single time. My work with Bari Angels and as a post–weight-loss advocate was born out of my own lived experience, and I believe that purpose often grows from pain. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been meaningful. Helping others find their confidence, rebuild their lives, and rediscover joy after bariatric surgery has given my story a deeper purpose.

If I could change anything, it would only be to start sooner. For a long time, I hid behind fear and self-doubt, wondering if my story was “enough.” But now I see that my authenticity is my superpower — it’s what allows me to connect, uplift, and inspire others who are walking the same road I once did. So yes, I’d choose this work again, without hesitation, because it’s not just what I do — it’s who I am.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kwyonnica?igsh=dW94a3B3M21vMms%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AB3p9f4iZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: https://linktr.ee/KwyonnicaFrazier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=b7010bbc-bfd2-4f66-9670-1d56af887eb6

Image Credits

Rany horne photos
Chris Butler photography