Breaking Barriers: Jael Mowa’s journey of advocacy, empowerment, and leadership

Originally from Angola, Jael Mowa is a dedicated youth leader and senior at Deering High School who is making her mark through her passion for civil rights and social action. She serves as the Maine State Policy Director for the American Youth Association, as a board member of Youth-Led Justice, and as a statewide conference facilitator for the Maine Youth Action Network. At school, Mowa is the co-vice president of the National Honor Society, a cabinet member of the Black Student Union, co-leader of the Seeds of Peace Club, and a participant in ModelUN, all while excelling as a varsity track athlete. Recently Mowa earned the Seal of Biliteracy in Lingala, and works as a youth interpreter, using her linguistic skills to bridge cultural gaps. This past summer, she participated in an eight-week paid summer internship at the Boys and Girls Club of Southern Maine. 

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Despite all these accomplishments, Mowa said that her path to success in Maine has not been easy. “I moved to the United States at a very young age,” she said, “and I obviously struggled with English.” She witnessed the many challenges her family experienced as they worked hard to build a life in Maine. But she points to her efforts growing up in an immigrant family for her passion for civil rights. “Being a young Black woman in a predominantly white state, just seeing how many barriers, that’s what drives me to keep moving forward and creating radical change.”

Balancing her responsibilities as a student, athlete, and leader is no easy feat, but Mowa said she prioritizes her mental health. “If I’m not well mentally, I can’t do anything. Prioritizing myself and my mental health is key.” She also maintains a structured routine, using technology to stay on track with her many commitments while making time for family, friends, and self-care.

Mowa’s summer internship at the Boys and Girls Club of Southern Maine holds personal significance. “I used to be a member. My mom would always drop me off before going to work,” she recalled. The internship taught her the value of multilingualism, of being able to communicate across languages and cultures. “My Portuguese is actually starting to get better. I rotate from language to language. Knowing that I have so much power – that is my biggest strength.”

During her internship, which was funded by Bank of America, Mowa networked with passionate peers from across the nation and participated in a tour of Washington, D.C., where she was inspired by the dedication of other young leaders. The internship allowed her to develop essential skills, including networking techniques and financial literacy through Bank of America’s “Better Money Habits” training. 

Mowa cited racial and language barriers as the most significant challenges facing young immigrants in Maine. She said she feels pressure to work harder and be better than other young people to overcome harmful stereotypes. “Being a young Black woman is considered a barrier by some. But for me, it’s my biggest strength. I want people to know that I’m here, and I’m ready to make the change I want to see.”

For young people seeking to make a difference in their communities, Mowa’s advice is simple. “You have to make opportunities for yourself. Living in Maine, I’ve seen barriers, but I’ve also seen so much potential. It’s all about taking that first step and going for it.”

Looking ahead, Jael Mowa envisions a future in diplomacy, with plans to study international relations or political science. “Youth are the future,” Mowa believes, and with leaders like Mowa at the helm, that future looks bright.