Maya, Icon.

?? Hello, LinkedIn community! As we conclude our special series, “Women Making Waves,” this March, I am honored to dedicate our final spotlight to an extraordinary woman whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

An Icon: Maya Angelou ??? Maya Angelou, a poet, dancer, singer, activist, and scholar, transcended boundaries and left an indelible mark on literature and civil rights. Her journey from a traumatic childhood to becoming a world-renowned author is a show to her resilience, courage, and unwavering spirit.

But before I delve into Angelou’s remarkable achievements, I want to share a personal story with you. Anyone who knows me knows how much I adore Maya Angelou. short story: In high school, my friend Bat'armwa Gobum introduced me to Maya's poem, “Phenomenal Woman.” From that moment on, I was captivated by Angelou’s profound insights, her eloquent prose, and her unyielding commitment to social justice.

Born Marguerite Ann Johnson on April 4, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri, Angelou’s early life was marked by hardship and adversity. Despite facing unimaginable challenges, including childhood trauma and racism, Angelou found solace in the written word and the power of language. Her iconic autobiography, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” was a hit around worldwide.

Angelou’s contributions to literature included her autobiography, numerous poetry volumes, essay collections, and spoken albums. Her stirring poem, “On the Pulse of the Morning,” which was delivered at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration in 1993, earned her a Grammy and captured the hearts of millions.

Throughout her illustrious career, Angelou shattered barriers and received numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and multiple Grammy Awards. Her impact on literature and activism continues to be felt today, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their voices and stand up for justice and equality. ???

On May 28, 2014, Maya Angelou’s breathed her last, but her spirit and legacy endure through her timeless words and profound influence.

I find myself deeply touched by her mere existence, even though we never crossed paths in person. It's as if I've known her all my life.

She truly was a phenomenal woman! Her immeasurable contributions to literature and humanity serve as a personal motivation for me, showcasing the boundless potential of women who choose to pursue their dreams. Her words, "Your legacy is not what you have but the lives you have touched," reminds me of the profound impact we can have on others.

Her legacy lives on, a constant source of inspiration for me and generations to come. As I sometimes reflect on her life and teachings on YouTube, I am inspired to strive for greatness, to make a difference, and to leave a positive mark on the people and the world around me.

Read the poem, phenomenal woman here:

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/48985/phenomenal-woman

#WomenMakingWaves #MayaAngelou #WomensHistoryMonth