After a decade of unwavering dedication to building a resilient organization prepared for today’s challenges for equity and democracy through community power-building, civic engagement, leadership development, and political education in Georgia and our nation, the time has come for my sabbatical.

In 2022, the Women Engaged board unanimously voted to approve a 12-month sabbatical for me as Co-Founder & CEO, a practice rooted in the values of sustainability, respect, and wellness for visionary leaders. I am thrilled to finally actualize this decision and take time for rest, reflection, and restoration. I could not be prouder of what WE have built together.

Over the last ten years, I have met the moment by bringing strategic planning, critical thinking, a rich depth of non-profit leadership experience, and solid execution into growing this organization from an idea into a leading force for civic engagement, reproductive justice, and Black women’s leadership in Georgia.

Here are a few of my and our most significant accomplishments during the last decade: 

  • Expanded programmatic reach to communities across the state
  • Led highly effective voter registration and turnout efforts in every election since 2014
  • Raised over $11 million in support of our mission
  • Formed invaluable partnerships with local and national allies
  • Became the first reproductive justice leader to Chair the Board of Directors of a state civic engagement table, including successfully facilitating the organization through a next-generation executive leadership transition, bringing new resources and organizations to the coalition.  
  • Provided direct resources to families during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Supported our local economy by often hiring locally, including partnering with local small businesses, women, LGBTQ, and Black-owned businesses.
  • Launched our first “WEHonors” program, granting $1000 awards to unsung Black women and femme leaders making outstanding community impact worthy of being recognized and celebrated.    

We are living in serious times, and I understand the desire to ask, “Why take a sabbatical now when there is so much going on that impacts your work?” I, too, pondered this question. Yet, only briefly; namely, because I am confident in the infrastructure I’ve built with the skills and insights of a talented team ready to continue this vital work. Our Chief Operating Officer, Michelle Wilson, will lead WE in my absence. Michelle has worked with the organization for 8 years and has been a leader in the civic engagement space for over 15 years. Michelle’s creative team-building skills, innovative thinking, integrity, and stellar program execution efforts ensure their readiness for this moment.

This sabbatical is about dignity, equity, and sustainability. As so many of us in movement spaces know, burnout and exhaustion are very real barriers to progress. Rest and leisure are too often imagined and reserved for a privileged few, and as such, it becomes a radical act for Black women leaders. Yet, rest and leisure are essential practices for visionary leaders to stay connected to their purpose and to innovate. It is also an act of self-preservation, community care, and a commitment to building organizations that thrive for decades to come. As a leader, it is important to model rest and self-care and encourage the next generation of leaders to shine as decision-makers.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the last ten years of cultivating a thriving organization that amplifies the voices of Black women and our communities, and I look forward to a future filled with growth and progress by returning with new skills, energy, purpose, and a fresh vision for the work ahead.

For all executive-level decisions or organizational inquiries during my sabbatical, contact our COO, Michelle Wilson. If you need to relay an ER message to me directly, please get in touch with my Executive Assistant, Toni Moore.

The past decade has shown us what is possible when we lead with vision, compassion, and collective power. Thank you for your continued support of Women Engaged. I am forever grateful for your partnership and belief in our work.

In community and gratitude,

Malika Redmond

Co-Founder & CEO

Women Engaged

P.S. To reflect on our first ten years of impact and the community that made it possible, visit womenengaged.org/WE10 or follow us on social media to stay connected.