Explore My Stories Empowerment through Storytelling
Growing up in an unstable household, I learned early on the power of silence, the art of observation, and the need for a low profile to ensure safety.
This skill set extended into my professional life when I joined the corporate world, where being a dedicated, hard-working individual was appreciated and rewarded. However, my Puerto Rican heritage was not always met with the same enthusiasm.
Adapting to different learning environments, I often found myself sacrificing my voice just to survive and fit in. But that was a thing of the past. At I Am Maggie Leon today, my storytelling voice rings loud and clear, undeterred and unapologetic.
Drawn From Life-Changing Experiences
With the courage to share my experiences and my stories, I found strength from within. Through personal conversations or as a guest speaker at conferences, my stories have been an avenue to self-acceptance and a platform to be seen and heard.
My experiences have inspired others, and you can learn more about them below.
Becoming a mother at 19, I faced the challenge of raising my son alone when his biological father left. Despite the hardships, the love and support of my family gave me strength, and motherhood changed me for the better.
As a freshman at Tufts University, I was both thrilled and terrified. My small-town views were put to the test, but that experience allowed me to see myself in a new light and prepared me to conquer the world outside my familiar bubble.
In the corporate world, I found success by blending in, hiding my cultural background, and even my humble beginnings.
I eventually found the courage to be true to myself and decided that any job that didn't appreciate my authenticity did not deserve me.
Transitioning from teaching preschoolers to training adults in the dynamic tech space, I encountered discrepancies between men and women in the industry.
Despite the challenges, with the help of allies, I persevered. Today, I strive to help others navigate their paths.