Dr. Antoinette Carole Grace Mbarga is an awards winning Human Rights Advocate, and community activist with a heartfelt visible commitment to serve the world at local and global levels. She shines as a beacon of excellence and commitment to a better world by offering her services PRO BONO through a lifetime of volunteering in communities here in the US and abroad. Born in Cameroon and having established a significant presence in the Washington metropolitan area, Dr. Mbarga has emerged as a driving force for peace, justice, and sustainable development. Her career embodies an unwavering devotion to these ideals, internationally recognized by prestigious awards that acknowledge her global impact. Beginning her career with a clear vision, Dr. Mbarga has brought her expertise and innovative ideas as a principal consultant to the US Global Advisory and Liaison Committee for the Diaspora Innovation Institute. Her entrepreneurial spirit is also evident in her roles as CEO and founder of Afiri Consulting International and The Mbarga Project, where she has tirelessly worked to promote positive change across the globe. Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Mbarga's personal commitment to marginalized communities runs deep. She has been a powerful voice for Latin American and African immigrants, at-risk youth, and low-income families, addressing critical issues such as domestic violence, human trafficking, and women's rights. Her proactive response to racial discrimination during the Russia-Ukraine conflict highlights her dedication to justice for all, regardless of context. Dr. Mbarga's impact transcends borders, uniting communities through lobbying, social media, and educational programs. Her Miss Africa USA internship initiative is particularly noteworthy, empowering young Black girls to pursue careers in STEM fields, highlighting her commitment to the empowerment of women and girls. This introduction to the life and work of Her Excellency Ambassador Dr. Antoinette Mbarga naturally leads us to international and national accolades from the US Government officials such as the White House, the African Diaspora and other international organizations. These numerous awards and honors are a keen testimony to her exceptional commitment and global impact to a thriving humanity.
I want to start by thanking my father who worked in social services for over 30 years. And to all my other friends and family who also work as public servants, dedicating their lives to helping others and inspiring me daily to continue to strive to do the same, you deserve to be celebrated <3
I am truly grateful for your unwavering commitment, professionalism, and dedication. Your tireless efforts may go unnoticed, but please know that your work does not go unappreciated. You are the backbone of our society!
I would like to say thank you to Anita Spinner Deputy Director for Operations, Center for Federal Executive Boards(FEB) National Operations, Workforce Policy and Innovation U.S. Office of Personnel Management. In 2022/2023 Anita took on the task of facilitating the transfer of individual FEBs over to OPM. She (along with her team) conducted a seamless transfer (in my opinion) of several employees, and helped process out those employees that were not interested in transferring over. Anita performed this monumental task with such professionalism and grace amidst a lot of moving part and unidentified guidance that was yet to be disseminated. With Anita at the helm leading the charge of coordinating this effort and keeping us informed of each stage in the process made me feel a sense of comfort and understanding. It made me want to work for OPM just by viewing her compassion for us during a difficult decision making time in our Federal careers. She would not like the spotlight as she just executes without all the kudos, but I want Anita and everyone else to know that she continues to impact my career and life in a most meaningful and positive way! Thank you Anita Spinner.
I would like to thank my Deputy Commissioner, Leslie Zimmerman, and Assistant Commissioner, Agnes Rusin, here at the NYC Department of Finance. These two leaders have been role models for women in public service. They work hard, dedicate themselves to continuous improvement, but most importantly, they support and coach me to become a better public servant. They not only serve the public but also empower managers like me to become the best each day. Public service is about helping others and being unselfish, and these two women embody those qualities.
Christy always has a positive attitude even in the difficult of times. she Runs the events at Marymoor Park and does an amazing job with her crew and her peers. Christy has excellent customer service skills and deserves to be acknowledged.
Thank you, Charmaine McDaniel, for all you do in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Accessibility (DEIBA) spaces! I love working with you. You always go above and beyond in everything you do. You make a difference for everyone you work with and for social justice. I am excited to work alongside you in those spaces to help everyone have a real voice and feel valued, appreciated, and heard. With sincere appreciation!
I'm grateful to the Public School Teachers who continue to serve our Communities in spite of having "their hands tied" with regard to so many factors that impact their ability to be effective in the classroom; class sizes, behavioral problems, contradictory societal values etc etc. You have my undying gratitude and utmost respect.
Hassan Sheikh, It's an honor to extend my deepest gratitude for your dedication and the transformative impact you've made as a public servant. Your commitment to safeguarding public health as a non-partisan expert on public health emergency management in the Congressional Research Service for the Library of Congress is so behind-the-scenes, but I am sure it has shaped and continues to shape bills and policies that ensure the safety of many communities around the country!
Thank you for all that you do in protecting us and showing us that you care. Thank you