Now available · Memoir
The Strength
That Raised Me
From a missionary compound in Liberia to Puerto Rico to Iowa, Carmen Gwenigale writes about the people and histories that shape who we become.
Featured book
A memoir about the strength that sustains us.
Raised between a Liberia and Puerto Rico, Carmen grew up in a community surrounded by cultural pride and rooted heritage. Both environments encouraged her to embrace her dual identity. Transitioning to Iowa, away from most of her family pushed her to rediscover herself strength through multiple perspectives. This is the story of what carried her through it all.
Every person we meet carries a story we cannot see.
The author
Three places shaped her. One story holds them.
Growing up between cultures taught Carmen how deeply personal history and trauma shape every learner. Her writing and her career in education grow from that belief.
- 01
Liberia, West Africa
Born and raised in Liberia; attended school through the ninth grade while growing up on an ELCA missionary compound.
- 02
Puerto Rico
Relocated with her mother when Liberia's civil war began in 1989; completed high school and her undergraduate education and began teaching.
- 03
Iowa
Moved in 2001 for graduate studies; over two decades in public education as a teacher and now a district leader.
The bookshelf
A new book is on the shelf. Explore to find more.
The Strength That Raised Me
A memoir of family, traditions, and the quiet resilience that holds a life together.
Next on the shelf
Another book is in the making
Details will be shared here first. Until then, the first memoir is the best place to begin.
New to Carmen's work?
Start with her story, then read the book.
Beyond the page
When inspiration fuels passion.
Non-profit
Envision2Lead
A non-profit organization designed for building leadership and educational opportunity for young people within their communities.
Coming SoonCurriculum
TeachGlobalCitizenship
K-12 lessons and classroom resources created to help students understand civic responsibility from a global perspective.
Coming Soon