#TeamMITRE Spotlight: Margaret Achieng
As we reflect on and celebrate Black History Month, we’re continuing to spotlight three MITRE employees from our Black Culture Network Business Resource Group and the impactful work they do on our team and in the community. (If you missed our earlier spotlights, go back and read about the great work and advice from Crystal and Starling.) This week, meet Margaret.
“Working in the equity space here at MITRE has not only allowed me to be my authentic self but also allowed me to create spaces where others can authentically express themselves. Understanding who I am, my cultural background, education, and experience impacts the type of recommendations I provide to the customer and the type of advice I offer to my peers.”
Margaret Achieng is a lead health practice and systems analyst for Veterans Affairs Health Systems and Strategy. She’s also the project leader for the Veterans Affairs Office of Resolution Management, Diversity, and Inclusion, working to assess whether VA programs and policies perpetuate systemic barriers to opportunities and benefits for people of color and underserved communities—including People with Disabilities and People with Targeted Disabilities.
Q: Why is Black History Month important to you?
MA: [It is a] reminder to celebrate my “Africanness.” It’s an opportunity to continue learning about Black History, celebrating and uplifting Black voices, and recognizing achievements. It’s a time to self-reflect on how I show up and what contributions I’m making to my community.
Q: Tell us about your volunteer efforts or service you’re doing in the community.
MA: I love to mentor young adults and early career peers--helping those in need of resume cover letter-writing skills, salary and compensation negotiations, and advocating for oneself.
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Q: Who inspires you?
MA: My grandmother. She’s an industrious, intelligent, and virtuous person.
Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?
MA: Don’t be too hard on yourself, live in joy, and have fun.
Thanks for following along throughout the month. Make sure to check out our other Black History Month employee spotlights below:
Go Margaret!