Deborah Santana is an author, business manager, and activist for peace and social justice. Her non-profit, Do A Little, serves women and girls in the areas of health, education, and happiness. With a passion to provide educational opportunities for girls and women, Ms. Santana collaborates with organizations that work to prevent and heal relationship and sexual violence, improve the lives of America's abused and neglected children, and a worldwide community of artists and allies who work for empowerment, opportunity, and visibility for women artists.  

We are honored to welcome her to Octavia’s Bookshelf for a moderated conversation with Meilan Carter and book signing of her latest book, Loving the Fire: Choosing Me, Finding Freedom. Loving the Fire: Choosing Me, Finding Freedom, Deborah Santana shares her journey of spiritual awakening shaped by a rich life of family, partnership, and purpose. Born to pioneering interracial couple Jo Frances and Saunders King, Deborah learned early the strength of identity, resilience, and love. Later married to legendary musician Carlos Santana, she embraced many meaningful roles—daughter, wife, mother, and supporter—before recognizing that it was time to fully step into her own voice and calling.

Across stories of motherhood, heritage, faith, and spiritual growth, Deborah takes readers on a deeply human journey of resilience and renewal. From her work with Daraja Academy to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, she reveals how a life devoted to service can evolve into one rooted in truth, wholeness, and fulfillment.

Equal parts inspirational memoir, spiritual reflection, and women’s empowerment, Loving the Fire is for anyone standing at a crossroads—ready to honor who they’ve been and step into who they are becoming.