Member Spotlight: Maudelyn Greene
by Fielding Williams
Maudelyn shares her childhood background which drives her meaningful contributions as a member of WIF.
Can you provide a brief background on yourself for those who do not know you?
I was on born in Liberia, West Africa and my life has been an interesting journey – from being a young girl living through a civil war to being a refugee, to now living a full and blessed life. When I was 6 years old, the war in Liberia began. It disrupted my life, claimed over 250,000 lives including my sister, and exposed me to atrocities no child should see. It was a difficult childhood, but it also prepared me for life’s complexities. I learned how to be brave, resilient, imaginative, flexible under pressure, and above all to be always grateful. Today, I am proof that one can overcome the most challenging circumstances and still thrive. I’m blessed to be alive, and I celebrate by living the biggest, boldest life I can, every day!
When my family eventually escaped the war, we moved to Virginia in 1997 where I lived until my move to Charlotte in 2006 to start working at Bank of America after college. I’m still at BofA and currently a Relationship Manager with the Commercial Banking Middle Market team after previously working in Data Analytics, Operations and Risk Management.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family especially being the “fun Aunty”, traveling, Pilates, podcasts, and tending my houseplants.
What makes our purpose or mission meaningful to you?
There are so many reasons; WIF’s responsiveness to evolving community needs, the inspiring model of diverse women working together to drive local change, the partnership with nonprofits that extends beyond funding, and because I’ve “been there” – lacking basic needs and on the receiving end of the types of services our nonprofit partners provide. When my family first moved to the US as refugees, we didn’t have much, and times were difficult. With generous support from our community and local nonprofit partners, we rebuilt our lives and returned to self-sufficiency. I’m fortunate to be where I am now, and my WIF membership helps me give back in a meaningful way.
What energizes/ motivates you? It can be anything from a quotation, a song, a person, workout routine etc.
I’m motivated by learning and solving new challenges. I’ve pivoted multiple times during my career and truly enjoyed taking on new roles and responsibilities. Outside of work, I’m committed to learning something new every year. Currently, it is perfecting my golf swing and learning French. Last year, I learned to roller skate and thankfully I didn’t break anything!
What are you the most excited about for the 20th anniversary year?
It’s my third year with the grants committee and I look forward to another inspiring and informative grant review cycle.
Advice to make the most out of your Women’s Impact Fund membership?
Attend events and join a committee! The committees really are the heart of what WIF does. It’s a great way to learn about community needs and the local organizations making a difference, with the added benefit of getting to know more members and building relationships along the way.
What is your favorite restaurant or activity in Charlotte?
It’s hard to pick just one restaurant, we have so many! Some of my favorites are Rai Lay, Yunta, and Lemani. Also, I was introduced to Charlotte Ballet by a fellow WIF member, and I’ve been loving it (Thank you, Michelle!).
