An Interview with Jeni Nganzobo
Jeni graduated with a BS in Biology with a concentration in Pre-Medicine. In addition to working in a team-oriented environment, she enjoys participating in community projects and collaborative work. Jeni heard about Changemakers through friends who participated in community service and volunteered through MEEA.
This piqued her interest to take part in MEEA's Changemakers Gathering Planning Team, which was entirely online due to the pandemic. Jeni’s time with Changemakers started in 2020. She enjoys sharing ideas, learning more about the program, and facilitating a part of a program. Among the most rewarding aspects of working with Changemakers is having the opportunity to work with like-minded individuals who share similar goals and experiences. Collaborating in an environment with the ability to share those stories is advantageous to all involved. As we envision the future of Changemakers, it would be beneficial to continue to connect with more programs aside from just the ones we currently have relationships with, as well as reach out to more small towns here in Maine and expand with other groups nationally. During these experiences, Jeni has developed more of a focus on the importance of the work's impact on the environment within communities and more urgency for protecting it on the local level. Along with that is a focus on communication with other peers. Jeni found her voice in Changemakers by awakening her communications skills to become an addition to her other crucial attributes of teamwork. It was not just verbal or financial participation, but an active hands-on approach required in making change within the community. Throughout her work as a Changemaker, Jeni outlines that MEEA’s goal’s to give youth a voice is important and essential for activism.
Her observation over the past few years is that MEEA is unique in that everyone involved feels important, which in turn makes the work collaborative rather than competitive. Everyone is incorporated into the process in a way, which has made tasks and projects more efficient. Her education and clinical practice give her a voice in this organization, which is critical in being able to contribute to the team effort. This role has assisted her to find the part she wants to play in the community and how her voice can be heard there as well. Currently, she is working at a medical clinic and building a resume to help her get a job. She is also volunteering at a food pantry for the community as part of her community service efforts while cultivating community and gaining experience in volunteer work. The future holds the possibility of working full-time at Northern Light Health under the Roux Institution pre-clinical program, as well as participating in the MV3 scholar program as a volunteer. Additionally, she wants to mentor students and help them develop professional skills. Jeni knows what it is like to go into a field with no resources or experience and doesn't want others to make the same mistake. This motivates her to make a difference in her community, particularly by utilizing her expertise in the medical field and environment.
-Story by Elaina Cruz
