Malia Nix is a graduate student at Texas A&M University – Commerce, where she is set to earn her Master of Social Work in 2024. Following the pandemic, Malia felt a strong calling to change careers and pursue a degree in social work to make a meaningful impact in her community.

The tragic loss of her nephew to suicide in the spring of 2023 profoundly shaped Malia’s journey. She experienced the isolating pain of grief while attending church, feeling as though no one understood her family's struggle, including the ministers in her family who were also mourning. During her nephew’s service, her brother prayed, “Let our misery become a ministry,” and this sentiment drives Malia’s commitment to Soul Shop.

With a degree in Education from Baylor University, Malia spent a decade as a national trainer, curriculum writer, and personal sales coach for a prominent financial services company. In the next chapter of her life, she balanced full-time motherhood with leadership roles in various volunteer organizations. Upon re-entering the workforce, she joined the Dallas Independent School District, focusing on Volunteer Engagement and District Partnerships. Under her leadership, the district's volunteer program grew from 10,000 to over 31,500 volunteers. Malia authored the district's policy for processing background checks for volunteers, enhancing safety for students and staff—a policy that remains in effect today. She continued her volunteer engagement efforts statewide while working with Volunteer Now and has spoken at various state and national conferences on this topic.

Growing up in East Texas, church has always been a cornerstone of Malia’s life. Her grandfather and two uncles are preachers, her father serves as a deacon, and Malia has dedicated over 15 years to children’s ministries.

Currently residing in her hometown of Tyler, Texas, Malia enjoys gardening and cooking. Her most requested recipes include her posole stew and sausage balls (though not typically served together).