About Dr. Nina Addison
Dr. Nina M. Addison, known as The You Can Specialist, is a dynamic force of faith, resilience, and purpose. Born the ninth child in the blended family of Audrey and Freeman Pendleton, she was raised on the South Side of Chicago with an unshakable belief that she was created to change lives...
…Despite being born with club hands—no bones in her thumbs and underdeveloped arms—Nina boldly states, “I do not consider myself handicapped, because I do not limit or disable myself from doing anything needed or desired.”
Early Life and Education
Dr. Nina earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and pursued Social Work at Loyola University Chicago. Her lifelong mission has been to show that with God, nothing is impossible—even when the world notices your differences first.
Youth Empowerment and Nonprofit Work
In 2005, Nina launched her first nonprofit, T.O.U.C.H. NFP, later rebranded in 2021 as Youth Can, a faith-driven organization empowering youth through workshops, mentorship, and motivational programs.
Currently, Nina is co-founder of Homeschool Helps, a hybrid educational program that equips youth with Christ-centered academic and life skills. She continues expanding these services to empower more students globally.
Motivational Speaking and Coaching
Nina began her professional speaking journey in 2010 with Nina Motivates, inspiring audiences through live events, social media, and media platforms. Her simple yet powerful message: “YOU CAN!” motivates others to live their best lives—mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
She became a certified Christian Life Breakthrough Coach in 2012 and joined the Biblical Coaching Alliance. In 2022, she launched her Life Coach Certification Program, certifying over two dozen coaches to guide others in purpose-driven living.
Authorship and Publishing
Nina’s first eBook, “From the Mind to the Mouth”, debuted in 2012, followed by her paperback, “Because I Love Me”, in 2013. She founded Anointed Hands Publishing, helping aspiring authors share their stories. She has published over 30 books and anthologies, many aimed at youth and women, transforming lives through storytelling and faith-based guidance.
Media and Evangelism
Dr. Nina has hosted and co-hosted numerous media shows, including radio, TV, and online platforms. In 2014, she embraced her calling as an Evangelist, focusing on helping people see Jesus through her work. She blends motivation, comedy, and faith to engage audiences nationwide.
Marriage and Personal Life
After ten years of celibacy, Nina married Vernon Addison on December 12, 2020. Today, she is a proud wife and full-time bonus mom, living out the principles she once taught to youth and women.
Recognition and Awards
- Doctorate in Philosophy, Christian Leadership and Business, 2024
- Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, 2024
- Paige Award for Business, The You Belong Foundation, 2024
- SPAA Speaker of the Year Award, 2013
Current Work and Mission
Dr. Nina continues speaking globally through her “You Can” message, coaching aspiring authors and life coaches, teaching through Homeschool Helps, and hosting the You Can Radio Show on ICU Radio 97.3 every Monday at 5:30 p.m. CST.
She currently serves on the Board of Directors for The You Belong Foundation, Thrive Girls Inc., and Stay Litt Ministries. Nina’s mission remains clear: “I prove to you that YOU CAN using Philippians 4:13.”
