For International Women’s Day this year, we asked some of the brilliant women who work at Lumos globally to share their thoughts about their work, advice for women starting their careers and what they are passionate about in life. Meet María Cecilia and Valerie, who work in Colombia and Haiti.
VALERIE NOISETTE, SENIOR PROGRAMME MANAGER, HAITI
Why do you enjoy working at Lumos?
I wholeheartedly believe in the mission of Lumos. I am blessed and honoured to be working for this organisation that has had such a huge impact in Haiti. I wake up every day and truly feel that I am making a difference in the world and doing my part towards eradicating child trafficking. My colleagues are extremely passionate and everyday I am learning something new. To be able to do what you love is a gift, and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity Lumos has given me.
What would you tell other women who are starting their careers in the not-for-profit sector?
It’s ok if you don’t know all the answers and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Surround yourself with people who you can learn from, who will inspire you and who will lift you up. Everyone has something important to contribute. Don’t be afraid of your power. Don’t forget to smile and laugh. It’s good for the spirit.
Tell us something about yourself?
I am also an artist, art curator, and art collector. In 2014, I co-founded Kolektif 509 and have helped many young contemporary artists in Haiti start off their career. I have showcased the artwork of 85 artists and have organised 35 group and solo exhibits both in Haiti and abroad. I am extremely passionate about the arts and believe it is an excellent tool that can be used for social transformation.
María Cecilia Maldonado, Program Manager, Colombia
Why do you enjoy working at Lumos?
I feel so lucky to work at Lumos where I do my best to make it possible for children to live in loving families. I really believe in families and their ability to take care of their children; we just have to help them to do so when they have so many difficulties.
What would you tell other women who are starting their careers in the not-for-profit sector?
To young women who are starting out as professionals I would tell them to believe - focus on their dreams and their inner strength. They should take risks to reach their goals with passion, without fear of mistakes and difficulties along the way. In my personal and professional growth, I value and remember those who have helped me to be where I am today.
Tell us something about yourself?
Just as in my work I dedicate myself to unite and strengthen families, outside of it I dedicate time to care for my parents and my daughter. But I also like to dedicate some time for myself reading novels or walking in nature, traveling to other worlds and feeling a connection with my inner world. I try to be a model and an example for my daughter as a strong woman dedicated to working for a better world.
ALICE COVENTRY, SENIOR OPERATIONS AND GOVERNANCE OFFICER
WHY DO YOU ENJOY WORKING AT LUMOS?
Lumos’ mission is very close to my heart and I feel enthused and inspired knowing that I am playing a small part in helping children grow up in a caring, loving home, which every child in the world deserves.
I love my role because I get to work with colleagues across the globe which is wonderful because I love hearing about the vital work that they are doing.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL OTHER WOMEN WHO ARE STARTING THEIR CAREERS IN THE NOT-FOR-PROFIT SECTOR?
The world needs strong, compassionate and resilient women, so push yourself and work hard and you will achieve anything you put your mind to. Women who support and empower other women make society a better and fairer place. Lift up the amazing women around you and watch the impact that can be made.
TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF?
I feel passionately about fighting for women’s rights and have worked to raise awareness of the terrible treatment of asylum-seeking women at detention centres in the UK. My work on this is going to be published in a book called State Crime and Immorality; The Corrupting Influence of the Powerful.