An EMPOWERED woman knows her worth, walks in her purpose, and inspires others to rise with her.Â
Dr. Arlene Sumpter,
Founder &Â Visionary, Empowering Women Hawaii & Int'l. &Â SistahGurl Leadership AcademyÂ
SistahGurl Leadership Academy is a ministry of Empowering Women Hawaii & International, a nonprofit, Christ-centered leadership and discipleship ecosystem dedicated to spiritually, intellectually, and practically equipping women to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose. What began as a vision to uplift women has grown into a global, multi-platform community committed to developing women leaders through biblical literacy, leadership formation, and purposeful empowerment.
At the heart of SistahGurl lies a threefold commitment: to encourage women spiritually, equip them intellectually and practically, and empower them to walk boldly in their God-given calling—in ministry, leadership, family, community, and career.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create accessible, transformational spaces where women are grounded in God’s Word, strengthened through discipleship, and equipped with tools that foster leadership, resilience, and lifelong growth. We believe every woman carries divine purpose, and through intentional teaching, mentorship, and community, that purpose can be cultivated for the glory of God and the good of others.
How We Live Out the Mission
Encourage
We cultivate a nurturing, faith-filled community where women are seen, heard, and supported. Through prayer, mentorship, small-group engagement, online gatherings, and annual events such as the SistahGurl Refresh & Restore Summit, women are encouraged to persevere, heal, and grow—spiritually and personally.
Equip
Education is central to SistahGurl. Through initiatives such as Deep Dives and  Empowered to R.E.A.D., SistahGurl Read the Bible, the SistahGurl Leadership Academy, and academic partnerships with universities and correctional institutions, women are equipped with biblical literacy, leadership training, and practical skills. Our academy is designed to offer digital courses, teaching resources, leadership development tracks, and pathways for both certificate completion and academic credit.
Empower
We believe empowerment is sustained, not superficial. SistahGurl empowers women to discern their calling, steward their gifts, and step into leadership with confidence and integrity. Whether leading a Bible study, serving in ministry, pursuing education, or influencing their community, women are encouraged to lead from a place of purpose, wholeness, and spiritual authority.
Our Foundation
SistahGurl Leadership Academy is firmly rooted in the biblical truth that every woman is fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). Grounded in Scripture, we affirm the dignity, value, and calling of women across cultures, generations, and life experiences. Our approach honors diversity while remaining anchored in God’s Word, the transforming power of the gospel, and the work of the Holy Spirit.
Our Community
SistahGurl is more than a program—it is a growing movement and leadership pipeline. Through digital platforms, live teaching, summits, publications, and collaborative partnerships, we are building a supportive network of women who are learning to read Scripture faithfully, lead courageously, and live purposefully.
Together, we are raising up women who are spiritually grounded, intellectually equipped, and empowered to make lasting impact—locally and globally.
ABOUT DR. ARLENE
Dr. Arlene Sumpter is a faith-based leader, educator, author, and coach committed to equipping women to grow spiritually, lead confidently, and walk fully in their God-given purpose. She is the Founder and President of Empowering Women Hawaii & International, and the visionary leader behind SistahGurl Leadership Academy, a ministry dedicated to biblical education, leadership development, and spiritual formation for women.
With a heart for teaching and a passion for God’s Word, Dr. Arlene brings together academic rigor, pastoral wisdom, and lived experience. She holds a Doctor of Ministry (DMIN), a Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership (MASL), and is a Master Certified Professional Coach (MCPC). She also serves as an adjunct professor, teaching biblical and theological studies, and is actively involved in developing faith-based courses in collaboration with higher education institutions.
Dr. Arlene is the author of multiple books and Bible study resources, including Empowered to R.E.A.D., a practical guide designed to help women understand, study, and apply Scripture with confidence. Through her writing, teaching, podcasting, and coaching, she encourages women to deepen their faith, embrace leadership, and pursue lifelong learning.
Her work is especially focused on creating access and opportunity for women in underserved spaces. As part of this vision, Dr. Arlene is committed to developing pathways for leadership and biblical education that extend beyond traditional settings, including future partnerships with correctional institutions.
Above all, Dr. Arlene’s ministry is rooted in a deep belief that when women are spiritually grounded, biblically equipped, and confidently supported, they are empowered to transform their families, communities, and spheres of influence for the glory of God.
Call To ActionCONNECT WITH US!
Stay connected, be encouraged and grow alongside a community of women walking in faith and purpose!
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