Tell us about yourself.
My name is Maija (my-uh) and I was born and raised in Fargo! I spend my 8-5 using my creative and strategic mind to collaborate with my team on corporate marketing campaigns. When I am not at work, I spend my time with my fiancé, Matt, and puppy, Rosie! Our little family spends a lot of time on the water at the lake, exploring new parks and walking trails and going downtown for a good cup of coffee.
I have been in the marketing field for six years and I am currently a Senior Marketing Specialist at Sanford Health. In my role, I have the opportunity to serve as a voice for patients and caregivers. I get to help share their stories, promote health and wellness and share our message of “here for all, here for good” with the communities we serve.
Who are some people who have been influential in your journey and why?
My mom. She is passionate, creative and kind. She has been an advocate for the arts and education systems in our community for as long as I can remember, and I admire her for using her voice for good. You know when you’re known as “Meg Spielman Peldo’s daughter,” you must have a pretty cool mom.
What drives you?
Funny you should ask, as I had the opportunity to really dive deep into this in our first United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program session where we learned about our strengths. One of my top five strengths is “futuristic” and I often find myself being driven by the future. I have so many goals and dreams for the future and when I can focus my time and energy on those goals, there is no stopping me!
What are some important lessons you have learned in your lifetime?
Being authentic will get you farther than molding yourself to the people around you.
What are some of your favorite things to do in our community?
Supporting local art! I find so much joy in supporting our local theatre and music scenes, visiting local galleries and studios and filling my home with pieces I have collected from many of the small businesses that I have come to adore.
What is your dream job and why?
My dream job would be a role where I find fulfillment in the work I am doing and where I am in an environment that promotes a healthy and supportive work culture. So, I’m thinking perhaps a professional wine taster?
Do you have any book or podcast recommendations for our readers?
Financial Feminist podcast. I have learned so much from Tori Dunlap when it comes to being a young woman in the workforce. Her wisdom has helped me tackle fears of imposter syndrome in the workplace and has given me the tools to gain financial confidence and ultimately help enhance the course of my career and life.
What are you hoping to gain from the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program?
Going into this United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program experience, I hope to gain the confidence to tackle my professional fears, the tools I need to make a difference in the community and, of course, 34 lifelong friends.
What do you think can be improved in our community?
A hope I have for our community is to be known as a leader in providing a safe and equitable environment for all community members—to be known as a home for anyone and everyone, where we spend our resources on helping community members learn, grow and thrive.
What do you think can be improved in our business community?
I would love to see more women in leadership roles throughout our community. Although I have personally seen some great progress with this, such as our female president at Sanford Health, I still look around at other organizations within the community and hope to see more diverse leadership. You know, I do happen to know of 35 pretty incredible women if anyone reading this is looking for their next new leader!
What are some of your passions outside of work?
The wholesome day-to-day activities such as making dinner with my fiancé, watching my dog splash and play at the lake and sitting around a bonfire with people I love.
Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of Fargo INC! magazine?
If you have been looking for a “sign” to apply to the United Way 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program… this is your sign!
