We recently had the chance to connect with Genma Holmes and have shared our conversation below.
Genma , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I am incredibly grateful that the holiday season has begun for me. This is the time of year when I feel my absolute best—spreading joy and love to those who need a rainbow in their clouds.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Genma Stringer Holmes is a recognized, award-winning Entrepreneur who has become a dynamic figure in publishing, a brand ambassador, an influencer, a sought-after conference speaker, and Editor-in-Chief. She is the owner of Holmes Pest Control, Executive Producer and host of Living Your Best Life Radio, and the Editor at GSH Media and Consulting.
With a deep-rooted commitment to nonprofits and civic organizations, and a continuously evolving set of communications skills, Genma has garnered numerous awards from the International Association of Business Communicators and other professional organizations. Her projects, ranging from editorial work for print publications to digital communications, online branding, and social media management, reflect her dedication to community service. Genma is the creator and manager behind many social media campaigns for several prestigious organizations such as The Ohio State University; MD Anderson Cancer Center; University of Houston; Intercultural Cancer Council; the University of Tennessee at Memphis; Meharry Medical College; The Links, Incorporated; Black Ownership Matters; Rotary International; and the National Day of the American Cowboy, to name a few.
In the Middle Tennessee area, she is heard each weekend on the engaging program Living Your Best Life Radio on 790 AM The Gospel and 99.1 FM. Genma has been featured in numerous publications like The New York Times, Pest Control Technology, Pest Management Magazine, Nashville Business Journal, The Tennessean, Style Blueprint, Essence, Black Enterprise, The Network Journal, Speakers Magazine, Family Business Magazine, Worthwhile Magazine, First Woman, and Huffington Post.
Genma is a contributing writer to newspapers and publications throughout the U.S. Her anticipation and excitement can be felt in her upcoming book projects: Mrs. Claus in Photographs, Where Are the Black Santas, and African American Entrepreneurs Who Made Nashville the ‘It City,’ Set to debut in 2026-2027. When Genma is not an entrepreneur, she portrays Ms. Santa, her Christmas Character that has endeared her to children around the world and gathered her followers from across the country.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My grandparents, with their unparalleled work ethic, left an indelible mark on me. Their dedication and perseverance were unmatched, and even as an adult, I have yet to encounter individuals who match their level of hard work. Their influence, which I can still feel today, was profound. Their ability to care for their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren while still making ends meet has left an enduring legacy. It is this legacy that not only guides me in my personal life but also plays a significant role in my professional life as a consultant, a business owner, and an advocate in the community. The values we imbibe during our formative years often shape our habits for life. The dedication and hard work imparted by my grandparents and parents will always flow through my veins.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has been a patient and persistent teacher, guiding me through the intricate process of healing from several traumatic events in my life. It has taught me to be kind to others and patient with life’s challenges, such as grieving the loss of a loved one, caring for an adult child with catastrophic injuries, or feeling helpless as grandchildren are born with congenital disabilities. During my deepest hardships, when I thought I was at my lowest, I discovered a profound spiritual connection with nature and gardening. It was in these moments that I was most receptive to the gentle whispers of wisdom. I found solace in nature’s embrace, which has played a significant role in my healing journey and a deeper understanding of my spiritual self. Success, in its glory, could never have led me to this level of introspection and empathy. Suffering has been a patient teacher, showing me the value of patience in healing. Trauma brings grief, and there is no quick escape from it. But there are stages, and I have learned to be patient through each one. In the highs of success, it is easy to overlook the quiet tears of grief, but patience has allowed me to acknowledge and comfort those in pain.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
As someone who embodies Mrs. Claus—whom I am called Ms. Santa—I have found that this role has become an integral part of my volunteer life. Portraying Ms. Santa not only connects me to the ‘Claus Community’ in a deeply personal and unique way, but it also brings us all together in a shared experience. While I have thoroughly enjoyed this role, I have also witnessed unsettling and, at times, alarming behavior within the Christmas entertainment industry.
The lack of a governing body, such as a licensing board, allows anyone to wear the suit, potentially tarnishing the profession in pursuit of quick profit. Unfortunately, the negative consequences of such actions extend beyond professional Christmas entertainers; they also affect the public and our clients. These actions not only lead to an unfair association of the unethical behavior of a few individuals with our entire community, but also erode the trust and respect we have worked so hard to build.
Professionalism, safety, and ethical standards are responsibilities we all share. That is why I am deeply committed to fostering growth within our community and providing mentorship. By learning and growing together, we can overcome the challenges we face and continue to uphold the values of our profession.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
Two roles in my life bring me the most peace and joy: being “Bam Mom” to my three grandchildren and portraying Ms. Santa. When I spend time with my grandchildren, especially in our garden, I feel my grandmother’s spirit strongly. It is not just about teaching them to care for the flowers and vegetables they have planted; it is about the deep bond we share. Those moments are incredibly precious to me. Every time my grands visit my home, we race to the garden, shedding stress and worries as we connect with each other on a soulful level.
My role as Ms. Santa also brings me immense peace and joy. I truly believe that God made me to be the perfectly imperfect Mrs. Claus, known as Ms. Santa. I love bringing joy and fun to children, and I feel a deep sense of peace and happiness after every encounter—I cannot stop smiling every single time! The warmth and happiness I experience in this role are truly indescribable. Now, where is my Hallmark movie?
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mssantanashville.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bugsact
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/genmaholmes
- Facebook: www.faceback.com/genmastringerholmes
- Soundcloud: https://www.soundcloud.com/genmaspeaks
- Other: https://www.genmaholmes.com
Image Credits
Black Santa Houston
MsDig Photography
Genma Holmes
The Gloria Smith Foundation
