Dr. JaVon Ophelia Butler, MPA, is a radiant soul whose presence brings light, inspiration, and transformation. She blends faith, creativity, and compassion to touch lives across the world. A visionary force, a dynamic leader, an inspirational storyteller, and a giant advocate for transformative change are her rare personality traits. As the Founder, Director, Writer, and Producer of SeLah Productions, Inc. (SPI), she has built a platform that intertwines faith, culture, and the performing arts to crafts stories that uplift, heal, and empower, Dr.awing people closer to faith and purpose to create life-changing experiences.
Born and raised in Lutcher, Louisiana, Dr. Butler carries the legacy of her parents, the late Joseph Butler, Sr., and the late Joy Ann Woodland Butler. Her unwavering dedication to excellence was evident early on, earning her a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with the highest GPA in her department and a Master of Public Administration with a focus in Public Policy from Southern University A&M College. Her deep love for learning, academic prowess and leadership, laid the foundation for a career rooted in service, and impact which has shaped her mission to serve and uplift others.
Dr. Butler’s journey in ministry took flight in 2017 when she received her Ministerial License from Choice International Ministries under the esteemed leadership of Bishop Antoine M. Jasmine. Since then, she has emerged as a sought-after motivational speaker, igniting audiences with wisdom and purpose. As the former President of the NAACP, St. James Parish Chapter #6315, she tirelessly championed civil rights and community empowerment. Her tenure as a Management Analyst Intern for the U.S. Department of State Inspector General’s Office under the governance of Former Secretary of State General Colin Powell solidified her commitment to public service on a national scale as a trusted leader and advocate.
A gifted and celebrated playwright, filmmaker and storyteller, Dr. Butler was named the 2017 Playwright of the Year by the Church Stars Christian Entertainment Network. Through her powerful gospel stage productions, she uses storytelling as a ministry to win souls, uplift communities, and spark transformative change. Her impact and humanitarian reach far beyond the United States. Her love for people has taken her to West Africa, particularly Ghana, principally in the capital, Accra, where she engaged in a Presidential Visit with Ghana’s esteemed former President, John Agyekum Kufuor.
Beyond the stage, Dr. Butler shines as a media personality and devoted intercessor. She leads the uplifting Facebook Live series, SeLah’s Spot - The Virtual View, where she offers thought-provoking conversations that inspire, educate, and entertain. As the Chief Intercessor of SeLah’s Serenity Prayer Line, a movement dedicated to spiritual renewal and intercession, she dedicates herself to prayer and spiritual guidance.
Through JaVon Ophelia’s ACT (JOACT) Mentorship & Learning for the Performing Arts Program, she nurtures the talents of chilDr.en, youth, and adults in acting, singing, and dancing, ensuring the next generation of performers is equipped to find their confidence in both skill and purpose. Her collegiate program, Theatre Me, gives students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of theater, bridging education and artistry with love and dedication.
Dr. Butler’s impact extends to television and radio, with appearances on platforms such as Majesty Now in Waycross, Georgia, Cox Across Louisiana, Local NBC 33 WVLA in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and The Word Network in Detroit, Michigan. Her words are like a gentle breeze, refreshing, powerful, and unforgettable. Her powerful voice resonates across multiple platforms, solidifying her status as a thought leader in both ministry and the arts.
Her work has been recognized with numerous honors. In 2022, Leaders Publications named her an Inaugural Louisiana Leading Lady for her outstanding and trailblazing influence in the performing arts. In 2023, she received the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from Called 2 Inspire Magazine and was honored as an Unsung Hero for Women’s History Month by Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards. This is one of the state’s highest honors and most cherished accolades for bright women. Her journey of excellence continued in 2024 when she was selected as an Entrepreneur 2 Watch by Called 2 Inspire Magazine and received the esteemed Transformer Award at The Big Easy Retreat during Essence Festival Weekend.
In 2024, Dr. Butler was blessed with the esteemed honor of receiving her Honorary Doctorate in Doctor of Philosophy, Christian Leadership and Business from Eagle’s Elite Christian University. This sacred recognition affirms her divine calling, her unwavering commitment to kingdom leadership, and her anointed influence in both faith and business.
Dr. JaVon Ophelia Butler is more than a Minister, playwright, and entrepreneur. She is a fragrance of hope, a melody of inspiration, a guiding light for those seeking purpose, and a force of nature, dedicated to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ through every medium available. Whether on stage, on screen, or behind the scenes, she remains devoted to creating meaningful productions that uplift and empower. Her journey is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and divine purpose, and her legacy of love continues to shine for generations to come.
Andrea J. Hollins is a native of Maringouin, Louisiana. Andrea graduated from Xavier University of Louisiana in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She went on to complete her Masters in Public Administration at the University of West Georgia in 2007. She is a member of Healing Place Church in Baton Rouge, LA where she serves as Greeter and Member of the Baptism Team. She is a Licensed Real Estate Agent in Louisiana.
Keyojuan Turner is a native of Lutcher, Louisiana. Mrs. Turner graduated from Southern University A&M College with a bachelor’s degree in Business Education. Mrs. Turner later earned her Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center in 2004. Mrs. Turner is licensed to practice before all state courts in Louisiana as well as the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Prior to joining Turner Law Firm, Mrs. Turner practiced personal injury law throughout Southeast Louisiana handling numerous personal injury claims. Her professional affiliations include; the Louisiana State Bar Association and currently serves as an attorney for Greater Grace Christian Academy.