Maia Chaka is a multi-faceted, barrier breaker with a passion for advancing the growth of women, youth, and her culture. Originally from Rochester, New York, Chaka grew up with a family first mentality, carrying that with her through her schooling and career. Although she faced unique challenges at a young age, she found that when she implemented the needs of others before hers, blessings soon followed.

After graduating from Norfolk State University, Chaka began her profession in education, focusing on at-risk youth, developing programs, and originating procedures to increase school attendance and retention rates. She designed clubs to promote self-esteem, created in-school initiatives to advance academic achievement, and studied the most result driven strategies to maintain educational encouragement.

While she continued making waves in the classroom, earning awards and accolades such as Teacher of the Year, Chaka was simultaneously making her mark on the field, officiating in conferences such as the PAC-12, Conference USA and more. In March 2021, Chaka made history as the 1st black woman to join the on-field officiating staff in the National Football League. As only the 2nd woman to join the on-field officiating staff, Chaka continues to be an agent for change by devoting her time to pouring into the communities that helped nurture her growth.

Chaka’s story is one of inspiration, motivation, and dedication. Today, she participates in panels, forums, and conversations nationwide, to encourage people from all walks of life, while continuing to provide educational enrichment services to economically disadvantaged youth, through her non-profit Make Meaningful Change (MMC).

Sports, Sports Motivation, Sports Industry, Referees, Empowerment, Influential Women, Inspirational, Black Heritage, Black History Month, Motivational, Diversity, BLM Women, Women's History Month, Social Justice, Social Activism, Female Leadership, African-American Women,