Meet Maggie

 

Maggie was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo. At the age of 3, her family left the Congo and lived in many refugee camps. At the age of 13, going on 14, her family left the refugee camp of Mozambique for the land of opportunity and freedom, the U.S.A.

Maggie attended Hoover High School in San Diego, CA. After 1 year of college, Maggie's family moved to Des Moines, IA where she received her associate’s degree in social work. She got married and moved to Grand Rapids, MI. Her bilingual background has helped her get jobs in both professional and manufacturing.

Her sister-in-law’s caseworker, Mama Muhamed, who was part of Treetops Collective, got her connected with Amina. Maggie was surprised to hear about an organization that values women's strength, work, and their voice to be heard. After her interview, she felt  like she didn't nail the interview because she told them she was 7 months pregnant. Days later, she received a phone call from Amina saying she would be able to join the women's concentric group. She was shaken and blessed at the same time. Especially, when she heard the news that she would work until she delivered her baby and get one month off work for healing and to connect with her baby. Treetops Collective has shown her the value and motto of women's voices and her safe space.

Maggie is part of the Congolese tribe women's group. Where she learned about her tribe and connected to her roots through dancing, cooking, supporting, and spreading kindness. Also, using her bilingual skills to help her community women feel connected to West Michigan. After taking the Strength Finder test, knowing her strengths has shown her the path that guides her to be more connected to the women in her community and learn from each other.

Inclusion, connection, and responsibility strengthen Maggie to thrive in communities. She wants to live in a world with the legacy of kindness and peace.

Being a woman doesn't mean we can't hope or dream. Our ambition and curiosity shape humanity in many forms, which leads to spreading love to society from generation to generation.