A Spotlight on Davonna Willis: Honoring Black History Month

At AMTA, we are committed to uplifting and supporting our massage therapy community and the incredible individuals within it. In honor of Black History Month, we had the privilege of speaking with Davonna Willis, MA, ATC, LMT—a talented educator, speaker, businesswoman, organizer, and founder of 4 Nineteen Education & Training and the Black Massage Therapists Conference. Learn more about Davonna, her accomplishments, and her vision for the future of the profession.

Professional Career

Davonna’s journey into health and wellness began during her time at the High School of Fashion Industries. While recovering from ACL surgery, she experienced physical therapy which sparked her interest in the field. When it came time to choose an internship, she chose physical therapy over fashion, despite the expectation that she would intern at a fashion house. Thanks to her success as a student, the Vice Principal allowed this pursuit, on the condition that Davonna find the internship herself. This decision marked the start of Davonna’s deep commitment to her education and passions.

She later enrolled in a sports medicine program where she first encountered massage therapy. After observing a massage therapist working with athletes, she was intrigued. “What are they doing differently?” she wondered. Learning how massage can help break up scar tissue and improve muscle pliability, she decided to pursue massage school as well.

Davonna balanced part-time work at a physical therapy clinic, studying for her athletic training license, and attending massage school, simultaneously. Juggling multiple commitments has always been a part of Davonna’s life. Even now, she is expanding her skill set and will soon announce her certification as a Pilates instructor.

For Davonna, the interconnectedness of her interests has always been vital. One of her goals is to introduce more athletic trainers to massage therapy, as she believes massage can be a powerful rehabilitation tool. Reflecting on the future of the profession, Davonna hopes to see more athletic trainers earning massage licenses and embracing this vital aspect of recovery: “That brings me joy,” she says.

Black Massage Therapists Conference

In 2020, amid the civil unrest following George Floyd’s death, Davonna created the Black Massage Therapists Facebook group. Living in Arizona at the time, where less than 5% of the population was Black, Davonna recalls feeling distinctly uncomfortable and said, “I felt like I was alone out [t]here.”  She was even known as the “Black massage therapist” in her community. Thus, the group was born out of her desire to connect with other Black massage therapists, share experiences, and foster a sense of solidarity during a time of national turmoil.

Five years later, the Facebook group has grown to nearly 1,200 members worldwide, and the second annual Black Massage Therapists Conference was held in Charlotte, NC in October. Looking ahead, Davonna’s focus is on continuing to nurture and grow this community, as many people are still unaware of its existence. She also hopes to partner with larger organizations to expand BMTC's reach and impact.

Inclusivity in the Profession

As a recent speaker at AMTA’s Schools Summit, Davonna shared valuable insights during her presentation, “Retention Marketing Strategies for Massage Therapy Schools: Fostering Inclusivity and Loyalty.” At the heart of her presentation, Davonna aimed to demystify Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and encouraged her audience to rethink these initiatives so that the benefits are more inclusive and equitable for everyone.

With approximately 70% of massage therapists being white women, Davonna asks us to consider what we are doing for everyone else. Ensuring that minorities in the profession, such as people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and men, feel supported, is essential for creating a truly inclusive and thriving massage therapy community. She emphasizes the importance of understanding who your audience is—whether clients, fellow therapists, or students—to ensure that DEI efforts serve and support those communities directly.

Personal Reflection on Black History Month

When asked what Black History Month means to her, Davonna shared, “It’s hard to celebrate the month when the country itself doesn’t always celebrate it.” While recognition is an important first step, there is still much work to be done to foster true respect, acceptance, and inclusion.

AMTA is honored to have had the opportunity to speak with Davonna Willis and to spotlight her perspective during Black History Month. While there is much progress to be made, AMTA remains committed to building a vibrant, inclusive massage therapy community.

Interested in attending, supporting (through donation or sponsorship), or exhibiting at the Black Massage Therapists Conference? Visit the BMTC website for everything you need to know about this incredible event and how you can be a part of it!