I never imagined that I’d meet Congresswoman Maxine Waters in person — and get up close and personal with someone I’ve admired for so long. But at Summit 21 in Atlanta, that’s exactly what happened, and it was an experience I will never forget.
The feisty California congresswoman, celebrated worldwide for fearlessly reclaiming her time and taking on President Donald Trump, has become a hero to many, especially millennials.
Known affectionately as “Auntie Maxine” among Black women, she inspires with her boldness, social media savvy, and unapologetic authenticity.
Former US Ambassador to The Bahamas, Sidney Williams, blogger and columnist, Rogan Smith and Congresswoman, Maxine Waters.
Her presence at Summit 21 immediately commanded attention. She spoke to 1,500 attendees with the confidence and poise that only someone of her experience could carry.
Her message? Don’t focus on how candidates look — focus on what they bring to the table.
Summit 21: Powerful Advice for Black Women
During her keynote, Waters urged the audience to hold candidates accountable:
- Evaluate qualifications, not appearances — don’t get caught up in a candidate’s looks or image.
- Demand representation — ensure elected officials have people on their team who reflect your community.
- Advocate for financial fairness — challenge banks and institutions to recognize that millennials often juggle multiple jobs out of necessity, not instability.
- Push for policy change — encourage elected officials to support initiatives like rent stabilization.
She said traditionally, financial institutions have looked unfavorably upon millennials who sometimes have two or three jobs, adding that banks view that as being unstable.
But, the reality is, many millennials have been forced to juggle multiple jobs in order to get by because they are not earning what they should be earning.
The outspoken congresswoman said the time has come for those institutions to create new criteria for millennials.
During the question and answer segment, I stood up, introduced myself, told her I was from The Bahamas and that my mother loves her. I later asked her which democratic candidate she’s identified as someone who could really go all the way in the presidential election.
Before she answered, she gave the biggest shout out to The Bahamas, noting that she has many friends here and often comes down for the Junkanoo parade.
While she didn’t give a specific answer, she noted that Senator Kamala Harris has some incredible strong point, as does Senator Cory Booker.
Meeting Maxine Waters: My Unforgettable Experience
Following her interview, my friend and I, along with several other women, tried to get a photo backstage with her, but her security team blocked us, so we left. I thought that would be the end of it.
Then, about 30 minutes later, while I was downstairs shopping in the vendor section, Waters, along with her husband, former US Ambassador to The Bahamas, Sidney Williams and their grandson, came walking towards me with camera in tow.
She had the biggest smile on her face as she walked towards me with outstretched arms.
She said, “I was looking for you, Miss Bahamas.” When she said that, I could not contain myself. I swear, I wanted to cry and I never get excited about any celebrity. It’s just that my mother loves her so much. I felt a mix of pride, joy and disbelief. I didn’t even care that my photos were unflattering.
Lessons I Learned from Auntie Maxine
Meeting her wasn’t just about taking a photo. It was a reminder of the power of courage, authenticity, and using your platform to uplift others.
She showed me how a true leader engages with people, speaks truth, and inspires action — and that those lessons go far beyond politics.
Meeting Maxine Waters at Summit 21 was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Her energy, warmth, and fearless wisdom left a lasting impression, and I feel honored to share this story with all of you.
