Joyce Owens' Impact on Atlanta Public Schools

Empowering Youth Through Sports and Faith: Joyce Owens' Impact on Atlanta Public Schools

In our "In the City" blog series, we spotlight inspiring individuals making a difference in Atlanta. This week, we had the privilege of interviewing Joyce Owens, Director of Atlanta Public Schools and South Fulton FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes). Joyce shared her incredible journey, her calling to ministry through sports, and her powerful vision for the future of FCA in Atlanta.

Answering the Call: Joyce Owens' Journey

Joyce Owens' journey into FCA began with a simple introduction. While serving as the Children and Youth Ministry Director at Elizabeth Baptist Church, she connected with Brent, an FCA leader, who shared his vision of bridging local churches with sports and recreation. Initially, Joyce collaborated on basketball camps and served as a financial supporter, but it wasn’t long before her vision for sports ministry grew.

“I figured sports was low-hanging fruit the church was missing,” Joyce explained. “God started showing me a bigger picture—connecting with students through sports ministry in schools.”

Encouraged by her connections and the support of Rob, another FCA leader, Joyce eventually made the leap to full-time ministry with FCA. It wasn’t without challenges, but through prayer, fasting, and obedience, she answered God’s call. “When God calls you to do something and you obey, everything else falls into place,” she shared.

Transforming Lives: Stories of Impact

Joyce’s work with FCA has touched countless lives, but a few stories stand out as testaments to her mission.

Derrice Hamlin – Westlake High School Derrice Hamlin, a former student at Westlake High School, found herself in a dark place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her family stopped attending church, her parents divorced, and she felt disconnected and alone. When she returned to school, Derrice felt God calling her back to Him. She learned about FCA huddles and, though not an athlete, began attending.

Principal Adams introduced Derrice to Joyce, and together they worked to launch a Bible club at Westlake. Derrice’s vision, called WOKE (Walking Out Kingdom Endeavors), aimed to create an inclusive space for students seeking God’s presence. What started with just four members grew to over 20 students. Today, Derrice is in college, continuing to lead and share her faith. “For me, that’s success,” Joyce said. “It’s about showing up, caring, and empowering students to lead.”

Isaak Esquival – Langston Hughes High School Isaak Esquival, a student at Langston Hughes High School, began attending FCA huddles with his soccer team. Encouraged by Joyce, he took on leadership roles, eventually speaking at a youth event. Inspired by attending a Fields of Faith event in Douglas County, Isaak expressed his desire to organize one at Langston Hughes.

Joyce and Isaak have since met with Principal Harris to discuss the necessary protocols and permissions. While still a work in progress, Isaak’s passion for empowering his peers and starting a Bible group at his school exemplifies the ripple effect of FCA’s mission. “He’s engaging, equipping, and empowering others,” Joyce said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

A Vision for the Future

When asked about her vision for FCA in Atlanta Public Schools and South Fulton, Joyce shared an ambitious dream:

“My ultimate vision is to create an all-inclusive environment that becomes contagious. Starting with athletes, we can inspire students to lead and live out their faith. But I also want to reach students of all abilities, ensuring everyone feels seen and included. I envision a movement where neighboring churches collaborate with schools, serving students where they are and grooming them to be tomorrow’s leaders.”

Joyce also highlighted the importance of empowering teachers and staff. “Teachers spend just as much time with students as coaches, if not more. We’ve started huddles for teachers at two high schools, and I want that to grow. When FCA is in the building, change happens. Lives are transformed, and communities unite.”

Joyce Owens’ dedication to FCA is not just about sports or ministry—it’s about creating a movement that transforms schools, communities, and lives. Her story is a reminder that when we answer God’s call, the impact can be immeasurable.



Stay tuned for more stories in our "In the City" series as we continue to highlight the incredible individuals shaping Atlanta.