Wairimu Macharia

My name is Wairimu Macharia, a born again Christian and an all time peace ambassador who was born and raised in Kenya. I am the first child of my wonderful parents, and I have three siblings. I am currently a resident of Worcester, MA. I first came to the United States of America in the early 2000’s as a student. My educational background is in International Relations: Peace & Conflict Resolution/Diplomacy. I also have a minor in Journalism: Writing and Editing. I studied at the United States International Universities (both in Kenya and San Diego, CA) for both Undergraduate and Masters Level studies. After graduating, I lived in Worcester, MA before going back to Kenya and worked on numerous projects promoting peace, cohesion and public participation in East and Central Africa. I was also a part time lecturer in the School of Peace & Governance at the Africa Nazarene University. I also had an opportunity to work in one of the mainstream media houses as a digital content editor and correspondent. I moved back to Worcester three years ago, and I have been involved in numerous community dialogues and conversations. I am a huge believer in psychosocial support systems that enable families and communities to take up ownership in solving socio-political-economic challenges that they experience everyday as they strive for better health, inclusivity and equity. I am a firm believer that speaking out gets us closer to bridging certain gaps hence my passion for creating venting spaces for the community.
Back in Kenya, I also had an amazing experience taking part as a participant in a Reality TV show known as “MS President” ; it showcases women in leadership and the impact they have in society. It is a show that inspires and challenges the society to embrace gender diversity in leadership.

I have been a Consultant for the City of Worcester and The Department of Public Health. I have been involved in programs that connect the community with resources and services that ensure the general well-being of society. I am delighted to see so many local outfits in Worcester so dedicated to bridge cultural, social, economic and political gaps while raising mental health awareness as well. I have been engaged with some of these organizations as a contributor and participant- Worcester ACTs that holds monthly Trauma Trainings, UHAI for health (focuses on African immigrants) as an Ambassador, Together For Kids which is a coalition of early childhood champions with a mission to promote the social-emotional well-being and general health of young children and families. I am also a member of the Parent Domestic Violence Advocacy Group that is actively involved in lobbying for Domestic Violence Legislation. Additionally, I am a member of the Worcester Headstart Program Policy Committee, and I also got certification in Women and Leadership, Parent Advocacy, Stress Management, Mediation, Coping Mechanism and Gender Mainstreaming. I was also appointed on the Creative Economy Adhoc Committee for the City of Worcester ARPA funds. On my me time, I love to travel, have deep and meaningful conversations, watch movies, dance and listen to music.

And of course I had to save the very best for last…..all of the above is descriptive of my academic knowledge, professional expertise, work experience, personal and sincere passion for the well-being of self and society. But the icing on the cake in all these, that keeps me grounded and very motivated to contribute positively to the society we live in, is that my husband and I are biological custodians to three amazing, fast growing little humans who we call OURS. They call me mom. I am their mother.