Dr. Valerie Moore Makes History at the SOAR Awards, Wins Breakout Preacher of the Year
International preacher, author, and teacher Dr. Valerie Moore, affectionately known as Dr. Val, was honored as the inaugural recipient of the “Breakout Preacher of the Year” award at the 9th Annual SOAR Awards held in Chicago, Illinois on March 2, 2026. The prestigious ceremony was hosted by Jamal Roberts and Kierra Sheard-Kelly, celebrating influential voices in gospel music and ministry.
The newly introduced category recognizes emerging and impactful voices in preaching who are shaping the spiritual landscape through powerful teaching, prophetic insight, and transformational ministry. Dr. Val’s recognition as the first-ever recipient of the award marks a significant milestone in her growing influence within the faith community.
In addition to receiving the honor, Dr. Val also stepped onto the stage as a presenter during the ceremony, where she had the privilege of presenting an award to gospel music icon Erica Campbell.
Moments before presenting, attendees witnessed a powerful and unexpected shift in the atmosphere as the presence of God filled the room, creating a deeply moving spiritual moment that resonated with those in attendance.
Reflecting on the recognition, Dr. Val shared that the award represents more than a title. It marks a meaningful moment of reflection on the journey of ministry.
“Receiving the SOAR Award for Breakout Preacher of the Year carries meaning on several levels for me,” Dr. Val said. “Ministry is often a very private journey of prayer, study, sacrifice, and obedience that many people never see. There are long seasons where you labor quietly, preparing messages and seeking God for revelation. Having that work acknowledged publicly reminds me that the assignments God places on our lives do not go unnoticed.”
She explained that spiritually, the recognition represents timing more than status.
“In scripture, elevation often follows seasons of preparation. David was anointed long before he was recognized as king, and Joseph had dreams long before he was placed in the palace. Awards like this can simply be signs that what God has been developing in private is beginning to have a broader impact.”
Dr. Val also emphasized that the recognition deepens her sense of responsibility.
“Preaching is not simply public speaking. It is stewardship of revelation. Every time someone stands behind a pulpit, they are handling something sacred. Recognition like this is not permission to relax. It is a reminder to go deeper, pray more, study more, and remain accountable to the assignment.”
The evening also marked Dr. Val’s first time presenting on a major awards stage, making the moment even more special.
“Standing on that stage in a room filled with people who have given so much to gospel music and ministry was truly memorable,” Dr. Val said. “It was exciting but also humbling because every platform is an assignment.”
Presenting to Erica Campbell added a deeper significance to the moment.
“I have always respected Erica Campbell, not only for her voice but for her authenticity and consistency in gospel music. Over the years I have had opportunities to meet her, and she has always been gracious and genuine. It says a lot about a person when their character matches their public platform.”
Over the years, Dr. Val’s ministry has impacted countless individuals through preaching, teaching, and prophetic insight. She believes the resonance of her voice comes from authenticity and real spiritual encounters.
“I do not see myself as someone extraordinary,” she shared. “I simply said yes to God. The messages people connect with come from real prayer, real experiences, and real encounters with Him.”
Dr. Val believes transparency in ministry allows people to see that God uses surrendered vessels, not perfect ones.
“When people hear the Word through the lens of real life, it becomes more than a sermon. It becomes something they can apply to their journey. If lives are being touched or awakened, then the glory belongs entirely to God.”
Dr. Val also shared encouragement for individuals stepping into their calling but still feeling unseen.
“Feeling hidden does not mean you are forgotten,” she said. “Often it means you are being prepared. Throughout scripture, God developed people in private before revealing them publicly.”
She credits much of her spiritual formation to the guidance of her mentor, Juanita Bynum.
“Watching her discipline and commitment taught me that calling is sustained by consecration, prayer, and obedience, not by popularity.”
Her message to emerging voices is simple:
“Remain faithful to the process. Develop your relationship with God. Do the work even when no one is watching. If God placed a call on your life, He also has a timing for that call.”
Dr. Val continues to expand her impact through writing, global ministry, and leadership. She recently released her fifth book, Unmasking Jezebel, which is available wherever books are sold.
In addition, she recently earned her PhD in Philosophy from Higher Place Christian University, further strengthening her commitment to theological study and leadership development.
As she continues traveling and teaching internationally, Dr. Moore believes this season is only the beginning.
“God is still unfolding the assignment,” she said. “And I remain committed to serving wherever He sends me.”
About Dr. Valerie Moore
Dr. Valerie Moore, widely known as Dr. Val, is an internationally recognized preacher, teacher, and author known for her powerful biblical teaching, prophetic insight, and transformational ministry. Through preaching engagements, conferences, and written works, she continues to impact lives around the world by encouraging believers to grow deeper in faith, clarity, and purpose.
Media Contact:
Khalif M. Townes,
Valerie Moore Enterprises
DrValBiz@gmail.com - 1.888-50MOORE x735
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