Marina Gang

Growing up poor on the outskirts of Curitiba, Brazil, Marina Gang worked as a housekeeper from the time she was 12 years old. Marina was married at 19 and had four children by the age of 31. “Throughout my marriage,” she said, “I was the one who took care of the family. My husband was unable to get a permanent job.” After 12 years of marriage, her husband left her and she was forced to take care of her children and her ailing 82-year-old father.

Left to support her family, Marina struggled to send all four of her children to college and sacrificed her own education so that they could attend school. “I thank God for helping me raise them. I gave them education, religion, sports, love and honesty,” she said.

Marina began running marathons in 1991, using the cash prizes to support herself and her children. In the past 13 years, Marina has won more than 500 trophies and medals, and is considered one of the top eight runners in Brazil, though she is one of the oldest athletes in the sport.

She also struggled to put her self through high school and is currently preparing to attend college to become a physical education teacher.

Marina, who received Women’s Opportunity Awards from SI/Blumenau, Brazil Region and SIA, said the awards will allow her to dedicate more time to her studies. “I am working very hard in my studies,” she said. “I want to teach children and young adults; encourage women like me to win; break down barriers; and show everyone how much women can do!”

Joyce, who was nominated for the Women’s Opportunity Award by SI/Howard County, is using her cash grant toward completion of her degree in licensed practical nursing at Howard Community College in Maryland. She also received $1,250 at the club level and $5,000 from SIA as the South Atlantic Region recipient. Being chosen a recipient is changing her life for the better she says. “My richness comes from helping others and knowing I’ve made a difference in someone’s life. I want to thank Soroptimist for making my dreams possible. I now have the opportunity to obtain my licensed practical nursing degree without enduring damaging financial stress.”