She was born in Cape Verde, where both the land and the women are strong. Her name might be Mary, Anna, or Fannie, but her story remains important. From a young age, she learned that life would not be easy. The soil was dry, the rains were unsure. But she watched her mother rise before the sun, wrapping her head, carrying strength in her posture and grace in her quietness. She grew up in sacrifice. Some days filled with laughter and music. Other days waiting for rain, for
