Our graduates are called, transformed, and sent to lead a life of eternal impact, and we love celebrating the life change they get to be a part of through the local church!
INTRODUCING
Ayrika Sonnier
2023 Highlands College Graduate
Ayrika Sonnier, a 2023 graduate of Highlands College, is making an eternal impact at Soma Church in Hickory, North Carolina. Currently serving as the Next Steps Director, Ayrika leads the team that helps people get connected and take their next step in following Jesus. From first-time guests to those getting water baptized or stepping into deeper discipleship, she plays a vital role in guiding individuals from simply attending to fully engaging in church life.
Keep reading to learn more about Ayrika’s journey, how Highlands College helped shape her leadership, and the powerful ways God is moving through Soma Church.
What do you love about your role?
What I love most about my role is the opportunity to champion people toward abundant life in Christ. There’s truly nothing like walking with someone on their journey and celebrating the moments that lead them to recognize who they are in relationship to Jesus. Being a part of that transformation—no matter how small the step—is a privilege I never take for granted.
What is your favorite hobby or way to spend a day off?
My ideal day off is stopping by Palm Berries for a smoothie bowl and then going for a nice walk.
What do you love about North Carolina?
What I love about North Carolina is the beautiful balance it offers. You get the mountains, beach, small towns, and vibrant cities—all in one state. There’s a deep sense of community here, and people are genuinely kind. Plus, there’s just something special about watching the seasons change, especially in fall. It feels like a place where life can slow down just enough for you to enjoy it.
How did you get connected to Soma Church?
During my third semester at Highlands College, I had the opportunity to meet Dallas Bates—a Highlands College alumnus and the Youth Pastor at Soma Church. His passion for what God was doing at Soma really stuck with me.
In my fourth semester, Dallas introduced me to Pastors Michael and Brooke Strickland at the ARC Conference. After just a few minutes of conversation with them, I knew two things for sure: God was doing something incredible in Hickory, North Carolina, and it would be an honor to be a part of it alongside such humble leaders.
I decided to visit after praying through the opportunity and talking with key mentors and the HC Team. I accepted a summer internship—and it’s been home ever since.
Ayrika, after running the Highlands College Half Marathon.
Serving on the HC Chapel Team.
What are your favorite memories as you reflect on your time at HC?
Some of my favorite memories as a Highlands College student would be my time serving at the Woodlawn Campus of the Church of the Highlands and being part of the Highlands College Chapel Team. Both experiences shaped me deeply—spiritually, relationally, and as a leader.
Throughout your time in HC, what are some of the things you learned that you do now at your job?
Highlands College equipped me in so many ways that I now apply daily in my role. One of the biggest takeaways has been Organizational Leadership. I’m thankful for the training in making tough decisions, the opportunities to take initiative in being innovative to overcome adversity, and learning the value of building a great team.
What is God doing through Soma Church?
Uncommon unity marks Soma Church—a people set apart, uniquely diverse, yet deeply united in Jesus. To date, we’ve seen over 1,700 people make decisions to follow Christ, and we continue to witness God move in extraordinary ways. Soma currently meets in two locations and has recently purchased its first property, which will become our first permanent home.
We’ve seen miraculous healings, freedom from addiction, radical generosity, and people from every generation stepping into a renewed passion for the things of God. There’s no doubt—God is building something special here, and we’re just getting started.
Ayrika leading the Growth Track.
The Soma Team at Christmas Services.
Revival Night Water Baptisms
Are there any stories or testimonies that you want to share?
Absolutely! Last October, we hosted Revival Nights—four nights of prayer, worship, and the Word. We came expectant, and God moved in powerful ways. One hundred twenty-six people gave their lives to Jesus (that we know of), and 36 people were water baptized.
We’re still hearing testimonies: mental health restored, marriages healed, cancer gone, and so much more. It reminded us that when we create space for God to move, He consistently exceeds our expectations.
What are you most excited about for the future?
I’m most excited to keep saying ‘yes’ to Jesus. His plans have always exceeded my expectations, and I can’t wait to see what He does next in my personal life and through Soma Church.
Ayrika doing Saturday Serve with her Freshman Girls Small Group at the Woodlawn campus of Church of the Highlands.
21 Days of Prayer rallying around the Soma Church family to pray for a miracle.
Looking Ahead
Ayrika’s story is a powerful testimony of how God is working through Highlands College alumni to make an eternal impact in the local church.
We hope you enjoyed getting to know one of our amazing Highlands College graduates. Learn more about Highlands College and how you can connect to our network of graduates around the world.