Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Watkins.
Hi Samantha, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey to founding the MJ BE Foundation began in one of the most challenging seasons of my life. This journey formally began in November 2020, when I established the foundation as a 501(c)(3) and stepped into the work God placed on my heart. In 2014, my father, Mark Jones, was diagnosed with stage 3 pancreatic cancer and given only 6–9 months to live, but he fought courageously and lived an additional 16 months. During that time, I witnessed his strength, his grace through pain, and his courage to live fearlessly with every moment we had together. The nights spent by his side and the memories we shared are priceless, and they revealed to me something powerful about who we are capable of being even in the hardest moments.
I was most inspired by his ability to “BE” who he needed to be despite unimaginable hardship — to be brave, hopeful, supportive, fearless, determined, and unwavering. That inspiration became the heartbeat of what would eventually become the MJ BE Foundation. When it came time to name the organization, nothing I tried seemed to capture the essence of his spirit or the mission I felt called to pursue… until a dear friend suggested something simple yet profound: the MJ BE Foundation. “BE” represents all the things my father and I had to embody throughout those months of struggle — and all the qualities we hope to inspire in others facing difficult seasons.
From that moment, I committed to creating an organization that provides love, support, and practical services to families navigating cancer and hardship — offering hope where it’s needed most and making it easier to carry on when life feels overwhelming. The Foundation was born out of real experience, genuine compassion, and a deep desire to be present for others in their moments of need.
Today, as Founder and President, I am honored to lead a ministry that stands for encouragement, kindness, and resilience. We offer support in meaningful ways — from financial assistance to meal fulfillment, heartfelt connections inside cancer centers, and resources to help lighten the load for patients and loved ones. Our mission is rooted in the belief that a tiny spark can ignite a flame — and that a helping hand can make all the difference.
With every life we touch, I’m reminded that what began in remembrance of my father’s legacy has grown into a foundation of compassion, strength, and hope — a place where people are encouraged to BE who they need to be in their most difficult moments, and where love and support truly matter.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No—the journey has not been easy.
When I officially established the nonprofit, we were in the midst of a global pandemic. Many of the services I envisioned offering simply weren’t possible under the circumstances. There were moments when I questioned why I had started this work at all, knowing how limited the opportunities were at the time. Yet, despite the challenges, I was proud and excited to bring the foundation to life. Each small interaction confirmed that the mission mattered, and seeing the impact—even in limited ways—kept me inspired.
Whenever my motivation wavered or I stepped away longer than planned, God faithfully reminded me of my purpose. Unexpected speaking invitations opened doors. People reached out to help connect me with grant opportunities. But one moment stands out above the rest—a message I heard quoted from a motivational phrase I had placed in a care bag we distributed. Hearing how those words impacted not only the patient but also their spouse brought me to tears. In that moment, I was reminded that the mission extends beyond one person—it’s about caring for the whole family.
Recently, during a deep time of prayer, God reaffirmed my calling with clarity and peace. My purpose is the people—to care for them, help them, support them, and love them well.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Outside of the MJ BE Foundation, I serve as a Digital Product Lead at Nestlé Purina, with more than 12 years of experience in the digital product space helping brands scale, innovate, and deliver best-in-class digital experiences. I view leadership not just as a role, but as a calling—one rooted in service, stewardship, and care for people.
Throughout my career across multiple industries, one truth has remained constant: people matter most. While technology and marketing bring together individuals with diverse skills, personalities, and working styles, I believe God uniquely designs teams to grow, learn, and succeed together. As a leader, I intentionally create environments grounded in trust, respect, and compassion, where collaboration thrives and every voice is valued.
I lead with the belief that strong teams are built through grace, accountability, and courageous conversations. By bridging gaps, fostering psychological safety, and encouraging open dialogue, I help teams move forward with clarity and unity. When challenges arise, I remain calm in the chaos, trusting God’s guidance while empowering teams to fail fast, learn quickly, and rebuild with purpose.
People often ask how my teams consistently deliver results. The answer is simple—we work well together because we care for one another. I strive to reflect Christ-centered leadership in everything I do, serving with humility, leading with integrity, and remembering that excellence is not just about outcomes, but about how we love and support people along the way.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I am deeply blessed to have a beautiful support system and faithful cheerleaders surrounding me. My mom, my best friends, and my church family are my greatest supporters. They believe in me, in my God-given purpose, and in the mission of my nonprofit. They speak truth with love and offer meaningful reflections that remind me—especially when I forget—that I am worthy, and that the work I’m doing matters.
Having a genuine community rooted in compassion and encouragement is essential, particularly in moments when the journey feels overwhelming or impossible. Above all, God is at the center of everything. When we truly believe that He will do exactly what He said He would do, He always shows up—faithful, on time, and full of grace.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mjbefoundation.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mjbefoundation/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mjbefoundation#
