Our Journey: A Legacy of Love
The Houston Beginning (2014-2023)
QueenLyfe Inc. was born from founder Candace Strother’s personal journey through depression toward purpose. After experiencing repeated job rejections, Candace discovered through journaling and meditation that her fulfillment gap stemmed from a lack of self-love. The powerful mantra “Love Yourself First Everyday” (LYFE) became not just her healing path, but a movement that would touch thousands.
In Houston, QueenLyfe established itself as more than an organization—it became a recognized brand and engaging movement. Through signature events like Sip and Share, wellness walks, and the launch of Project Mona Lisa at YES Prep Southside in 2018, we built a foundation rooted in authentic connection and transformative programming.
The Denver Chapter
(2024-Present)
In 2024, QueenLyfe expanded to Denver, Colorado, marking a significant milestone in our vision of fostering a culture of growth and empowerment for women on a global scale. Through partnerships with DSST Montview and Vista Peak Exploratory, Project Mona Lisa now serves multicultural girls in the Denver community, bringing our proven mentorship model to a new generation of young queens.
This expansion honors everything we built in Houston while embracing the unique needs and opportunities of the Denver community. We carry forward the legacy of resilience, transparency, and radical self-love that defined our first decade.
Meet Our Founder
Candace L. Strother
Founder & CEO, QueenLyfe Inc.
Candace Strother is a visionary leader, 2019 Houston Business Journal “40 Under 40” honoree, and passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. Her personal transformation journey from depression to purpose inspired the creation of QueenLyfe Inc. and continues to fuel the organization’s mission.
“Through the practice of journaling, I uncovered the source of my fulfillment gap—my need for more self-love. Armed with this newfound awareness, I embarked on a journey of envisioning the life I desired, shaping my path towards a more fulfilling LYFE.”
Under Candace’s leadership, QueenLyfe has evolved from a Houston-based initiative to a multi-state movement, always maintaining the core principle that self-love is the foundation for empowerment.
Our Values
Authenticity
We create spaces for honest conversation and genuine connection.
Resilience
We embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and character building.
Community
We believe in the power of women uplifting women across generations.
Transparency
We share our journey, the triumphs and struggles, to inspire others.