Meet Maddie: Komera Summer Intern!
Komera is honored to work with talented volunteers and interns throughout the year who are passionate girls’ education activists! This summer, Komera was lucky to have Maddie join us virtually to support both the Komera USA and Rwanda team. Read on to learn about Maddie and her summer internship experience.
Q: Tell us about yourself!
A: My name is Maddie Shapiro and I’m working with Komera this summer as the Social Media/Marketing Intern. I’m also an incoming junior at the University of Illinois where I major in Communications and minor in Leadership studies. I grew up in Highland Park, Illinois and from a young age, was raised on the importance of doing good for the world. My mother grew up on the advice to “give until it hurts” and this motto has continued to be a guiding force in my life.
Q: Why did you choose to intern with Komera this summer?
A: After attending Komera’s fundraising event in Chicago this past February, I fell in love with the mission. I was immediately drawn to the organization and its commitment to investing in all facets of a young woman, making a profound and tangible impact on her adolescence. A key turning point came in the wake of COVID-19 and the racial inequities surrounding George Floyd. I knew that this summer would be a transformational one, with a unique opportunity to use my voice and create change. Interning for Komera was one way that I chose to do my part in healing the world.
Q: What projects are you supporting the team with during your summer internships?
A: Some of my favorite projects have revolved around social media and communications such as strategizing and managing a social media plan for Komera’s channels. I’ve also really enjoyed leading a series of social media training sessions and facilitating new content development alongside Komera colleagues in Rwanda. During the Komera Global Run weekend, I was responsible for PR outreach to publications as well as generating design components for social media. I also support and manage the incoming job application process for a new hire at Komera USA.
Q: What is your favorite part of the Komera program or mission that inspires you?
A: Komera has been fighting for the rights of vulnerable young women in Rwanda for more than a decade, and the success stories continue to inspire me. I’m particularly moved by Komera’s pursuit of deeply impacting each young woman they serve. The focus on long-term support from childhood to adulthood, which helps to unlock each woman’s fullest potential.
Q: A big piece of Komera’s mission is female empowerment through sport. What is your personal favorite way to sweat, and fav KGR fitness class you joined?
A: I’ve always loved yoga. It’s a great way to increase my strength and flexibility, and allows me to focus on mindfulness and breath work. I was able to continue my practice during the KGR weekend, taking classes led by Jordan from SoulJourn Yoga, Mikel, Marco, Eliza, the Komera team in Rwanda!
Q: What is an inspirational quote or mantra you live by?
A: “A leader is someone who demonstrates what’s possible.” -Mark Yarnell
Q: Tell us a fun, unique or weird fact about yourself!
A: I was a figure skater for 10 years of my childhood and I was able to skate with olympians like Jason Brown and Gracie Gold!
Q: Anything else to share? I’ve had the best summer with Komera and I hope to continue my work with the organization for years to come!
Thanks for your support this summer, Maddie!
Are you inspired and interested in learning more about volunteering or interning with Komera? Contact us at jobs@komera.org to learn more.