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Ayesha M. Wilson
“When you learn, teach. When you get, give.” — Maya Angelou
These powerful words by Maya Angelou resonate deeply with the life and career of Ayesha M. Wilson, a woman who embodies the transformative strength of social work in every space she occupies. 🌟
Ayesha joined the Greater Boston Association of Black Social Workers (GBABSW) in February 2021 with a mission: to connect with a community of like-minded Black social workers and share her works in education and advocacy. Her motivation stemmed from her time on the Cambridge School Committee, where she passionately emphasized the critical need for social workers in schools—a vision she continues to champion. 📚
Ayesha’s career path is a testament to the versatility and impact of social work. Social workers are everywhere—bridging gaps, breaking barriers, and building systems of support—and Ayesha is no exception. From her beginnings in youth services to her groundbreaking leadership roles, she has consistently redefined what it means to serve. Now in her first term as a Cambridge City Councillor, Ayesha continues to fight for the well-being of youth, families, and communities. 🏛️ Recently, she was appointed Executive Director of Emerge Massachusetts, where she leads efforts to empower women to take on political leadership—another space where social work principles shine brightly. 💼✨
Ayesha’s story is deeply rooted in her identity and experiences. The daughter of a Jamaican immigrant, a proud product of Cambridge Public Schools and Cambridge Public Housing, and the mother of a spirited toddler, Ayesha has turned her personal journey into a force for collective good. Her 20 years of experience in human services and youth work reflect the essence of social work: meeting people where they are, advocating for systemic change, and creating pathways for opportunity.
Her achievements speak volumes. 🏆 In 2023, Ayesha was honored with the Inspire Award from the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce and the Black Excellence on the Hill award from the Massachusetts House of Representatives. This year, she added the prestigious 2024 Emerge Massachusetts Woman of the Year award and the 2024 Nguzo Saba Award from the Black Biz Ball to her accolades. Yet, it is her unwavering commitment to service—as Secretary of the NAACP Cambridge Branch, a board member of the Cambridge YWCA, and an active GBABSW member—that truly defines her legacy. 💪🏿
What makes Ayesha’s career so unique is her ability to weave social work’s core values into every role she takes on. Social workers are change agents, and Ayesha exemplifies this truth in ways that inspire us all. 🌍 Whether advocating for youth in schools, empowering women in politics, or fighting for equity in city government, she shows that the profession’s reach knows no bounds.
GBABSW proudly celebrates Ayesha M. Wilson, a fearless advocate whose life reminds us that social workers are, indeed, everywhere—changing lives, challenging systems, and shaping futures. ✨ Her story is a powerful reminder of the limitless potential within the social work profession and the profound impact one can have when they embrace Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), and Nia (purpose), daring to be powerful in service to the collective good.
Be sure to check out Ayesha’s cameo appearance in our chapter video and next time you cross paths with Ayesha, be sure to give her a shoutout!
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