Cultural Broker and Portuguese Interpreter
Joaquina, known as “Quina,” immigrated solo from Angola to Texas. She quickly learned English and completed her degree in Business Administration. Quina then moved to Maine where she became a Portuguese Interpreter and Cultural Broker, professions that enabled her to live into her passion of bridging the cultural and linguistic gaps between Portuguese and English-speaking communities. Throughout the pandemic, Quina worked with the Angolan Community of Maine on the project “Feed,” delivering food to neighbors and helping asylees navigate the U.S. system and culture. She has been a part of leadership groups such as Maine Equal Justice, Lewiston-Auburn Community Market, an Ambassador for the Alfond Grant, and a member of a focus group of Maine Association for the Education of Young Children.
Co-Executive Director of Maine Inside Ou
His focus is on the leadership, growth and community outreach for MIO. Bruce's lived experience as a previously incarcerated individual provides him with the insight critical to building connection and promoting healing for the people and communities he interacts with. Prior to joining MIO, Bruce worked in the fields of substance abuse disorder and recovery, mentoring and coaching multicultural youth and community building. Most recently, Bruce worked for Community Concepts as a workforce development counselor in downtown Lewiston, ME. As a second generation Mexican American, Bruce serves on the Permanent Commision on the Status of Racial, Indigenous and Maine Tribal Populations. In this role, Bruce is able to work with Maine's government to address disparate treatment of marginalized ethnic groups and actualize racial justice. He also currently resides on the board of Mind bridge, is an active member of the Maine Prison Reentry Network and regularly fulfills public speaking engagements. Bruce is a single father, and resides in Brunswick with his two young daughters.
Trailer Assets Manager
Hassan Bouh is a dynamic leader with a strong background in business administration management. As the Executive Director of Caring Hands Initiative, he brings a passion for creating positive change in communities and empowering individuals through various programs and initiatives. Hassan is also the Chief Executive Officer of PeopleFirst HR Solutions and Consultancy, where he leverages his expertise in human resources to help organizations optimize their HR strategies and foster positive work cultures. With his comprehensive knowledge and dedication to making a difference, Hassan is committed to driving social impact and empowering individuals and businesses alike.