On April 27, the Board of Directors of Margaret McNamara Education Grants (MMEG) began its 35th anniversary celebrations with a special luncheon for over 200 guests at the World Bank.
During her opening remarks, Monica Vidili, MMEG’s president said “We are very proud of the accomplishments and impact of our MMEG grantees. We educate one exceptional woman and she trains thousands. That shows the power of women. Thanks to our donors and former and current volunteers, our non-profit organization has been empowering exceptional women for 35 years.”
Keynote speakers included 1983 grantee Marion Subah and 2009 grantee Ingrid Meintjes, who spoke about their work in Liberia and South Africa, respectively.
Marion Subah
Ingrid Meintjes
From Liberia, Marion Subah, the first MMEG beneficiary, said « I was able to use the grant for equipment and literature for training and teaching new nursing students in Liberia». Ms. Marion is a frontline fighter in the battle to eradicate the Ebola virus. After studying in the United States, Ms. Subah returned to Liberia to become a leader and trainer in community health. She led peacebuilding efforts by healing traumatized children affected by civil war.
From South Africa, 2009 grantee Ingrid Meintjes, who pioneered maternal mental health in HIV/AIDS services in low-income communities, said « There are so many women doing exceptional innovative work in their communities. MMEG has recognized that identifying and empowering women who already know what their communities need is a vital investment » during her remarks.
Today, MMEG grantees are involved in a broad range of activities that benefit women and children, including improving conditions for learning-challenged children, using art therapy to heal ex-child soldiers, providing safe water delivery systems to rural communities, advocating for women’s rights, caring for HIV/AIDS orphans, providing counseling to women and children traumatized by war, and training nurses in breast cancer prevention.
Thanks to everyone who helped us celebrated 35 years of grants!
