Bathsheba Nichole Adams Is Proof That Survivors Make the Strongest Leaders

Bathsheba Nichole Adams knows what it feels like to be overlooked, to battle through pain, and to wonder if anyone truly sees you. But she also knows what it means to rise with purpose, with passion, and with power. A mother, breast cancer survivor, and fierce advocate for foster and adopted youth, Bathsheba has taken every chapter of her life, no matter how hard and turned it into fuel for change.

Through her nonprofit, Eyes Like Mine Inc., she’s creating exactly what she once needed: spaces where children feel valued, loved, and fully seen. From gifting kids items from their personal Christmas wishlists to launching healing-centered mentorship programs, Bathsheba is building a legacy rooted in compassion and action.

This isn’t just about surviving, it’s about becoming. Bathsheba is living proof that no matter what you’ve been through, you can still create something beautiful, something bigger than yourself, something that helps others feel less alone. In this feature, we celebrate her journey and the remarkable impact she’s making one heart, one child, one story at a time.

How has surviving breast cancer reshaped the way you see womanhood, health, and inner strength?

Bathsheba: Surviving breast cancer completely transformed my understanding of womanhood. It made me see strength not just in enduring but in thriving afterward. It taught me that womanhood isn’t defined by physical appearance or societal expectations but by resilience, courage, and the grace we embody when facing life’s toughest battles. I learned health isn’t just physical — it’s mental, emotional, and spiritual; all of these aspects must be nurtured. My inner strength became rooted deeply in gratitude and the unwavering belief that every scar I carry is a testament to my power and purpose.

What were some of the biggest emotional or spiritual takeaways from your cancer journey?

Bathsheba: Emotionally, my journey taught me vulnerability is power, and allowing others to support you is a strength, not a weakness. Spiritually, I realized every experience, even the painful ones, holds purpose. My battle with cancer was a profound reminder to cherish each moment, live authentically, and passionately pursue my calling without fear.

Tell us about your nonprofit and why supporting foster and adopted youth became such a personal mission.

Bathsheba: My nonprofit, Eyes Like Mine Inc., is dedicated to ensuring foster and adopted youth feel seen, loved, and valued. Having grown up in foster care myself, I deeply understand the loneliness and insecurity these kids face. At 13, I met Peyton Manning at an event he led for a few foster families of one I was in at the time, and his genuine kindness left an indelible mark on me — he made me feel important and noticed. That simple act of kindness inspired me to create my own non profit and host an annual gala for foster children to make sure every kid experiences that same powerful sense of belonging and love.

Why do you think healing-centered mentorship is so important for the next generation?

Bathsheba: Healing-centered mentorship is crucial because it goes beyond addressing trauma — it actively promotes wholeness and wellness. This approach empowers youth to see themselves not just as survivors but as thriving individuals capable of breaking cycles and becoming leaders who heal and uplift their communities.

What are some ways your nonprofit creates safe spaces for youth to feel seen, heard, and empowered?

Bathsheba: Eyes Like Mine Inc. organizes an annual gala specifically celebrating foster youth and gifting each child with Christmas items directly from their personal wishlists, every child is recognized and celebrated and every family is recognized for the amazing work they do by supporting these kiddos and opening their homes to them. We also offer mentorship programs, emotional wellness workshops, and leadership training that empower youth to express themselves, share their stories, and confidently pursue their dreams.

As a mother, survivor, and advocate, how do you pour into other women while continuing to heal yourself?

Bathsheba: I pour into other women by openly sharing my journey — my victories, my vulnerabilities, and my lessons. Transparency heals both the speaker and the listener. I advocate fiercely for workplace justice due to my own experience being assaulted in the workplace and nothing being done about it. I also advocate for women’s empowerment because every woman deserves respect and dignity. Helping others discover their strength helps me heal continually and deeply.

How can workplaces, schools, and even families do better at supporting women with intersecting identities?

Bathsheba: We must listen and validate their experiences first and foremost. Implementing policies that protect and uplift women, especially those facing multiple layers of discrimination, is vital. Educational programs that promote empathy, inclusivity, and respect should be prioritized. At home, fostering open dialogue and affirming each individual’s unique identity creates foundational strength that echoes into society.

What upcoming projects or initiatives are you most excited about this year?

Bathsheba: I’m incredibly excited about our annual gala for foster youth, a crucial event that provides recognition, encouragement, and gifts Christmas items right from the children’s wishlist. This year, our goal is to significantly expand our reach, welcoming even more kids into a space of love and celebration. Additionally, we’re urgently working to launch a transitional housing project to offer stable, supportive environments for foster youth who are aging out of the system. To bring these essential initiatives to life, we deeply rely on community support and greater exposure. Every bit of assistance, generosity, and advocacy helps us make an impactful difference in the lives of these young people who truly need our collective effort and compassion. If anyone would like to assist us in making either of these possible please reach out. Www.eyeslikemineinc.org

What do you hope your legacy of service and resilience teaches the world — especially young girls watching you?

Bathsheba: I hope my legacy teaches every girl that no circumstance defines your future. Your power is limitless, your voice matters, and resilience is your birthright. I want young girls to see my journey and know that, with determination and heart, they can overcome anything, uplift others, and create meaningful change.

Connect online: https://www.instagram.com/itsmebathsheba/