Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawna Beaugard.
Hi Shawna, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Meet KAOA: The Multi-Talented Artist and Kingdom Ambassador
Hi, I’m Shawna Beaugard—also known as KAOA, Kingdom Ambassador On Assignment. I’m a Christian rap artist, actress, speaker, and founder of Seen by the King Ministries. Through my music, my story, and my ministry, I aim to bring hope, healing, and inspiration to a world in need.
My journey has been shaped by deep personal loss. I lost my mother, second mother, and father by the time I was a teen. 2018 was the hardest year of my life—but through every dark moment, God never left my side. He restored me, just like 1 Peter 5:10 promises, and gave me the strength to keep going.
Despite life’s obstacles, I’ve stayed grounded in my faith, committed to purpose, and determined to be a light. Whether it’s through performing, mentoring youth, writing faith-based mental health workbooks, or serving my community—I do it all with the goal of uplifting others and reminding them they are seen by the King.
Seen by the King Ministries works to combat dehumanization and spread God’s love through food, prayer, art, and encouragement. I’ve also authored The Faith Fight and The Fighters Kit—two 30-day guides designed to help people build mental and spiritual resilience.
I’ve lived and worked in seven countries, held leadership roles across industries, and used art as a healing tool. I left my government job in 2022 to fully commit to my calling—and I haven’t looked back.
My father used to say, “You may be the only Bible someone ever reads.” I live every day with that in mind. I’m here to lead, serve, and show others that purpose still exists—even after pain.
Let’s build the next generation together.
— Shawna Beaugard (KAOA)
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Life hasn’t always been easy.
I lost my mom, and not long after, I lost my second mom to cancer in 2018. Then, at the end of 2019, I lost my father the one who meant the world to me. Growing up, I also had epilepsy, and I remember the doctors telling my parents I wasn’t going to make it. But I’m still here. I’m alive. I walk God’s green earth today and every day with purpose.
I’ve struggled with mental health. I’ve had to go to therapy and really do the work dig deep, heal, and grow so that I could become the best version of myself. Not just for me, but so I can continue helping others and teaching resilience from a place of truth.
Life hasn’t always been easy, but God has always been good. Even in the moments when it felt like He wasn’t… deep down, I knew He still was.
KAOA
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We’d love to learn more about your work. What do you do? What do you specialize in?
I’m a Christian rap artist with a deep passion for spreading hope, healing, and truth through my music and message. My work is rooted in faith and fueled by personal experience. I’ve walked through immense loss and pain, and through it all, God gave me a voice not just to tell my story, but to uplift others in theirs.
Beyond music, I aspire to be an actress and an inspirational speaker. I believe in using every gift God has given me to impact lives. Whether I’m on stage, in a studio, or simply in conversation with someone hurting, my mission is the same: to remind people that they have purpose, that they are seen, and that they are not alone. (New Song Not alone by KAOA)
What are you known for?
I’m known for my music but more than that, I’m known for my heart. I genuinely love people and believe in serving them well. I meet people where they are, and I try to lead with compassion, honesty, and grace. Whether it’s a song, a prayer, or just a hug, I want people to feel seen and loved when they encounter me.
What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
What I’m most proud of is my resiliency. Life has knocked me down more times than I can count, but by God’s grace, I always get back up.
What sets me apart is not talent alone it’s the God in me. I’m set apart because I was called, not because of anything I’ve done, but because of what He’s done for me. My faith keeps me grounded, and my love for people keeps me going. I don’t just want to create art I want to create impact. I want to teach others how to get back up, too.
At the end of the day, I’m KAOA a small town girl with a big heart doing the best I can to reflect God’s love while I’m here.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
There are so many people who have helped me become the woman I am today.
Losing both of my parents at such a young age left a huge hole in my life but God placed the right people around me to help carry me through, guide me, and love me into who I was meant to be.
I lost my mom at just 15 years old, and as the youngest of eight, I struggled deeply. But my siblings, especially my older sister Shameka Beaugard, stepped in with so much love and strength. Shameka, you’ve been my rock. Not only are you my sister, but I have the privilege of working with you full-time as a director in your nonprofit. You’ve always supported me, held me accountable, and pushed me to be better. I LOVE YOU, SISTER GIRL I wouldn’t be me without you. God knew I needed you here on this earth.
To my mentors – Tara Oates, Patrice Patrick, and Olu thank you for holding my hand and guiding me into a purpose I didn’t even know I needed. You opened doors for me to travel the world and see life from a whole new perspective. Because of you, I experienced growth I never dreamed of.
To my church family Lindsey, Debbie, Laci, Joy, Pastor Lovell and his family, Pastor Perrymen and Pastor Sophia you all poured into me in my adult season. When I was broken and couldn’t see past my pain, you saw purpose. You gave me opportunities to lead, to grow, to pray, and to show up fully even when I didn’t feel like I could. You always made space for me, and I will never forget that.
To my best friends Amber, Sheila, and Alyssa you have been constants in my life. Through the highs and lows, your love and presence have been everything. Your friendship has shaped me more than words can say.
If I forgot anyone, please know it’s not intentional. These are just the names that come to mind immediately when I reflect on the people who have helped shape me.
Thank you all. From the bottom of my heart. I am here today because of your love, your belief in me, and the way you’ve shown up in my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://seenbytheking.wixsite.com/thefightersclub
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallykaoa?igsh=MTh5aG85ZHMxZ3Z6Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shawna.laa?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kaoamusic?si=ectihUlhAlsGghvu
