Annahy
“Being a woman is the power I have to be assertive, be bold, speak up for myself and others.”
*Content Warning: Discussions of sexual abuse and suicide
Annahy is a hardworking, diligent, and determined Real Estate Agent, Background Investigator, and Veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. Her resilient skin comes not only from her years of service to her country, but also from having battled through immense adversity in her personal life and coming out stronger on the other side. Her past trauma used to hinder her growth, but she has now utilized it as catalyst to better herself and those around her; she is a leader who never backs down from a challenge and gives her all. Meet Annahy. This is her story.
K: Please introduce yourself!
A: My name is Annahy Maldonado, I was born and raised in Ecuador and I’m 40 years old. I’m a Marine, mother and wife. I’m a Background Investigator and a Real Estate Agent.
K: Describe yourself in your own words
A: I’m a very determined person who lives life by her own rules while trying to help others do the same.
K: What is your favorite thing about yourself?
A: I’m a go-getter.
K: Tell us a story. Have you had an experience that’s defined you or made you stronger?
A: I had to take a whole year break from drinking alcohol. It took over my life. I lost my federal job, almost got divorced, had many suicidal thoughts and got a criminal record with it. Taking the break was the best thing I’ve done for myself. I had to rediscover myself, create a life where I don’t need any alcohol, be present and treat past sexual abuse trauma that I’ve never faced before.
K: What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
A: Learn who you are, be more caring of others.
K: What does being a woman mean to you?
A: Being a woman is the power I have to be assertive, be bold, speak up for myself and others.
K: Who is one woman that inspires you? What would you say to her if she were here now?
A: My daughter. I want to show her what women can do, that’s it’s OK to be whomever she wants to be and that she’ll always have me by her side.
