This month’s member spotlight is a feature on Abijah (Francis) Manga (he/him)! Abijah has been a resident of Vermont for 10 years and is the owner of Loving Homecare LLC, where he provides compassionate care services to individuals in need. To learn more about the services he offers, visit www.lovinghomecare.net or reach out directly at 802-489-4927. You can also connect with Abijah on LinkedIn: Francis Manga.
Tell us a bit about your background before arriving in VT and what brought you to the state!
I was born and raised in Africa (D.R. Congo) and worked for the Congolese government. I came to the U.S. as an asylum seeker and stayed in NYC for 2 years. I moved to Vermont for school and fell in love with the state and the people.
How did you get into your career?
Abijah struggled to find a reliable caregiver or company that would adequately meet his elderly father’s needs. Despite his efforts, he was dissatisfied with the quality of services available and had a hard time finding the right fit.
Another reason Abijah was drawn to this career path was his wife’s experience as a caregiver for 15 years. She often came home frustrated, sharing stories about how poorly caregivers were treated and how the elderly were not receiving the quality care they deserved. This inspired Abijah to make a meaningful change – not only for the elderly but also for the caregivers themselves. He recognized the restrictive policies in place and believed both groups deserved better treatment and support. Abjiah saw an opportunity to elevate the standard of care and create a more compassionate environment for all involved.
Why are you a member of the Vermont Professionals of Color Network?
I am a member because VT PoC gives me an opportunity to network with peers in my field and beyond. As a minority and Black male, I find it interesting to be a part of this organization because of its advocacy for the BIPOC community.
What aspects of life in VT do you find most fulfilling? What about your professional life here stands out to you?
B2B and in-person meetings are the part I enjoy more in doing business in Vermont.
Looking back, what advice would you have appreciated receiving about being a professional of color in VT before you arrived?
To find a mentor who understands cultural differences and who can guide me toward organizations like VT PoC.
What are some challenges that you’ve faced on a professional level since living in VT?
Biased, lack of trust based on my skin color and accent, lack of financial resources such as grants and loans avaialble.
Tell us about the work you’re currently doing and what drives you in your profession!
I ensure to read as much as possible and go out of my comfort zone to meet with others and ask questions.
What future opportunities do you see for your industry, particularly in the context of the state?
I see the opportunity to grow in the healthcare industry and possibly bridging the gap to open a nursing home.
In your opinion, how can VT better support its BIPOC residents, both professionally and personally?
Provide more educational resources and make funding accessible and possible for the BIPOC community.
Are there other things (events/opportunities/jobs/etc) you’d like to share with the VT BIPOC community?
At Loving Home Care, we are providing the LNA program with an affordable rate. We are also seeking referrals for individuals in need of 24/7 in-home care.
