Dr. Mayra Rivas is originally from Managua but now commutes to Jinotega from Matagalpa, another city in the north coffee region of Nicaragua.
For this week’s Member Monday, meet Dr. Mayra Rivas! Read more to learn about Mayra, her passion for community development, and experience working with Comunidad Connect. Today is also Dr. Mayra’s birthday!
When did you start working for CC?
I started in September of 2015 working on a collaboration project with both teams in San Juan del Sur and Jinotega. It was an analysis on how to strengthen the organization. Later, in June of 2016 I was contracted as the In-Country Director.
Describe your role.
I am the In-Country Director, which means I work to strengthen the program and administrative aspects of the organization. One of my roles is to improve the projects and programs, which all deal with community development and a focus on health.
What is your favorite part about working with CC?
I love working on community development and health prevention, because I believe health prevention improves the quality of life for the people we work with in rural communities.
What is your favorite place to visit in Nicaragua?
My family’s farm. It’s a small farm, and when we first arrived there was basically nothing. There was only a small house and lots of weeds. I never thought it would be a pretty place. But in 31 years, it’s changed so much. Now we have coffee, cows, chickens, and a hill that you can hike up to.
What is your favorite holiday in Nicaragua?
There are so many holidays in Nicaragua, but my favorite is the Días Patrias (Independence Day).
What’s your favorite typical dish?
Baho (mixture of plantain, yucca, beef, salad, and green chile – same answer as Reeder & Kelly!)
What hobbies or talents do you have that most people don’t know about?
I love to read and listen to classical music. I also enjoy teaching and sharing with others.
Thanks Mayra! Check in next week for our next Member (& Memo) Monday!