Hello! My name is Maya-Gawonii, and I am the owner and heart behind Cowrie Crossings. Cowrie Crossings is a Black and Egyptian, queer-run mom-owned business built on a foundation of care and courage.
I work as a community educator, doula, and healer. I bring a deep dedication, vision, and a heart rooted in justice, equity, and dignity for all oppressed peoples. I’ve been organizing in political and grassroots movements since 2008, always guided by a belief in the collective power of the people.
As an Afro-Indigenous and Arab mother to a 12-year-old, I show up to this work with tenderness and fire; holding space for joy, grief, and transformation. I believe we are moving forward towards a world where black and indigenous teachings are centered, care is honored, and everyone benefits from the collective wisdom of lived experiences.
For over a decade, I have been dedicated to creating spaces where the possible takes shape. My journey has taken me through over a decade of community outreach honing my skills in fostering connection and transformation. I spent my undergrad training in facilitation and taking every sociology class available!
When I’m not creating spaces for transformation, you might find me on stage practicing stand-up comedy, curled up with a good fiction book (I’m always open to recommendations!), or spending time with my twelve-year-old at the local comic book spot (my favorite shop is Cape and Cowl in Oakland!). I’m a strong believer that laughter, healing, and resistance go hand in hand, and that a liberated future is not only possible, but already on its way.
At Cowrie Crossings, I’m here to walk with you. Let’s create something extraordinary together.
Feedback for Maya-Gawonii from past participants:
“Maya-Gawonii is a wonderfully kind, helpful, patient and supportive person. I would highly recommend working with her in any of her mediums. Maya-Gawonii showed so much compassion for everyone in our call and made such a wonderful space for growth.”
Social Media: @mayagawoniiwrites on Instagram and Threads
