Meet Zuriel Gibson | Advocate, Coach, Community Health Worker, CEO and Survivor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zuriel Gibson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zuriel, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
At Gibson Lupus ARC, I’m passionate about making a real difference in the lives of people affected by lupus and autoimmune diseases, especially in underserved communities. Here’s how we help:

1. **Raising Awareness**: Through our lupus awareness campaigns and community outreach, we educate people about this condition, which disproportionately affects women of color. By doing this, we help reduce stigma, encourage understanding, and promote early diagnosis and treatment.

2. **Support and Advocacy**: We provide direct support to individuals with lupus, guiding them through healthcare challenges and helping them access essential resources. My personal experience as an advocate and coach allows me to empower others, showing them that a diagnosis doesn’t define who they are.

3. **Community Health Initiatives**: Our ARC Village program focuses on helping homeless individuals with lupus and autoimmune diseases by providing sustainable housing and rehabilitation programs. This supports their reintegration into the community, promoting long-term stability and productivity.

4. **Economic Empowerment**: By partnering with local businesses and investing in real estate projects, like developing tiny home villages, we’re tackling homelessness while creating job opportunities and boosting economic growth in vulnerable communities.

5. **Motivational Influence**: Through my brand and the message “Your Diagnosis is Not Your Identity,” I inspire others to embrace their strength and potential, helping them realize they are more than their health condition.

These efforts are about more than just helping individuals; they’re about creating lasting change and empowering communities to thrive.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work is driven by my personal journey as a lupus survivor, a journey that began in 1997 when I was diagnosed. What sets me apart from others is my unwavering belief that a diagnosis is not one’s identity, nor is it the end of their story. I have walked a challenging path, not knowing from day to day whether I would live or die, yet I am still here to share my testimony. I have been blessed with personal teachers, mentors, and God’s love, all of which helped guide me through the darkest times.

What I am most proud of is the opportunity I now have to inspire others who may be facing similar struggles. I want people to know that there is hope, and that with faith, perseverance, and support, they can overcome the challenges that come with a diagnosis. It was not easy to get where I am today professionally, but I overcame the obstacles by embracing my calling to serve and protect others, a passion I’ve had since childhood.

The most important lesson I’ve learned along the way is that no matter the battle, every step forward is worth it. I want the world to know that my story is not just about lupus—it’s about resilience, faith, and the power of love. My brand and message, ‘Your Diagnosis is Not Your Identity,’ is about empowering others to see past their challenges and embrace the greatness they are meant for.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I don’t get out much but when I do, I love Lounges, Vegan Cafes’, parks and Church

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
GOD 1st and far most!
I can say because of my relationship with God I’ve been blessed to be in some life transforming rooms and meet some amazing people. All while going through my life’s struggles. To say the least I’m grateful.

For example:

~So there many advocates I would like to name but I’ll just name one
Male Lupus Warrior (Emmitt Henderson III)

~Business ~
Bee Busy Wellness (Norman Mitchell),
Women’s Resource Center (Dr. Willie Mae Lewis),
Up Social (Nolen Davis),
No Sister Left Behind (Lyette Reddix),
WON Network, International Wealth Building Expert (Dawniel Patterson Winningham)
Alll 4 You Boutique (M Shareece Gregory)
Huddle Up Foundation of Houston (Garrick Jones)

~Family~
California’s The Chocolate Comedian (Maelina Gibson)
Clarissa Smalls
Dedra and Lawrence Jones
David Nelson Jr

The list goes on, but I’ll stop here, lol

Website: https://www.gibsonlupusarc.org

Instagram: @ZurielGibsonCEO

Linkedin: gibsonlupuscenter@gmail.com

Twitter: @ZurielGibsonCEO

Facebook: @ZurielGibsonCEO

Youtube: @ZurielGibsonCEO

Other: TikTok: @ZurielGibsonCEO