We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Micki Berthelot Morency a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Micki, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

As a Haitian immigrant woman who has lived in America for many decades, I understand the hardships and recognize the obstacles immigrants must overcome to find their voices in the midst of the challenges of assimilation. My mission is to use my words as a writer to educate, advocate, and empower my readers to find a community. Communities support, nurture and help us grow beyond their boundaries.

I grew up in a “village” run by strong women who despite the constraints of the patriarchal society that dominated daily lives, they managed to survive and, in many cases, strive with limited resources.

As a former Case Manager at a women’s shelter, I saw firsthand how abuse, lack of self-esteem, low expectations, lack of exposure and education had condemned women to stay in toxic relationships because of fears.

Now through my writings and my own experiences as an observer and witness I want to show them that they can be free, they must be free, they deserve to be free.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I was born in Haiti, the middle child of seven. I learned early on to speak up to be heard and to excel at whatever I do to be noticed. My parents were the best. We emigrated to the US via Boston, where I completed high school and graduated from college. I had a career in banking, I became a business owner in the social services industry. Ultimately, I found my calling working with women in my community.

I’m a voracious reader. I read to learn about something I didn’t know before. I read for entertainment. I love to write about my feelings, my actions, my observations, my experiences. I love to make up stories.

The inspiration for my debut novel: THE ISLAND SISTERS came from my professional experience working with women toward self-sufficiency. My goal is to keep writing about stories that will appeal to all women. ALL women share a sisterhood.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

With a degree in finance, I worked in the banking industry until my daughters were born. The hours were long, and I wanted to be there for them when they come home from school, so I launched into self-employment.

I was always a worker and suddenly I had to pivot to become a boss. Well, all along I was a Boss-lady in the making. But in the end, I practiced what my grandmother had taught me: Treat others the way you want to be treated. That’s a recipe for success.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

As an immigrant, female, Black, and non-English speaker, I was told I couldn’t do a lot of things that I’ve done in my life in America.

I even write now in English which is my third language. Challenges motivate me not so much to show the naysayers, but to show myself that I can!!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mickimorency.com
• Instagram: @mickimorency3588
• Facebook: Micki Berthelot Morency
• Linkedin: Micki Berthelot Morency
• Twitter: @mickimorency