Maria Mwangi-Jones is a powerhouse of resilience, leadership, and heart. From overcoming cultural expectations and personal loss to building one of Phoenix’s top event venues, she has redefined what it means to rise against the odds. Featured on Humans of Fuzia, her story inspires millions in our global community by reminding us that courage, compassion, and determination can transform pain into purpose.
Q: What inspired your journey into leadership and entrepreneurship?
I’ve had several careers in my life, but each pivot came from a challenge I turned into an opportunity. Growing up, expectations for me were limited — I was raised to believe my future was to be a wife and mother, not to pursue a career. But I pushed forward, put myself through trade school, and started working young. When I was told I’d “never make it” in the mortgage industry because I was a plus-size Mexican woman, I took that as fuel. Within a year, I was the top salesperson. Proving people wrong has always been a part of my journey, but more importantly, proving to myself that I could do it became the real drive.
Q: You’ve faced some very personal hardships along the way. How did those moments shape you?
Losing my husband at just 41 was a turning point. At 40, I suddenly became a widow with two young boys and had to start over with almost nothing. We relied on the generosity of friends and family just to have furniture in our home. Those years taught me humility, perseverance, and the importance of building community. It was also the time when I realized how deeply I wanted to create spaces — not just event spaces, but environments — where people feel welcomed, supported, and celebrated.
Q: Tell us about your journey with Warehouse 215 and your role in transforming it.
When I was brought in, the venue had completely shut down. There was no infrastructure, no systems, not even a computer. I had to build everything from the ground up. I used all my years of experience to create the kind of vendor- and client-friendly environment I always wished existed. Today, Warehouse 215 is one of Phoenix’s premier event venues. We’ve hosted everything from VIP Super Bowl parties to concerts and community events. What makes me proud is that it’s not just a business — it’s a place that thrives on inclusivity and collaboration.
Q: Beyond events, you’ve taken on leadership in women-focused initiatives. Can you share more?
Yes, I serve as the President of WISE (Women in Sports and Events) in Phoenix, one of the fastest-growing chapters in the country. Leading an organization filled with such powerful women has been incredible. We’re not only creating opportunities for women in the sports and events industry, but we’re also building a strong sisterhood. And on a personal level, I mentor women navigating grief, sobriety, and confidence in leadership. I’ve been seven years sober now, and I often meet with women who want to take that same step. I believe in helping women in all spaces of life — whether they’re starting out, rebuilding, or striving for the next big milestone.
Q: Looking back, what’s one message you want others to take from your story?
That you don’t have to fit into a box. I’ve been told countless times what I couldn’t do — because of my gender, my size, my ethnicity, or even my lack of a degree. And yet, here I am, leading a company and inspiring others. Every setback I’ve faced has turned into a setup for something greater. My story is proof that resilience, faith in yourself, and community can carry you through anything.
“Every time life forced me to start over, I rose higher than before. Resilience isn’t about never falling — it’s about rising stronger each time.” – Maria Mwangi-Jones
Connect with Maria Mwangi-Jones: Maria Mwangi | LinkedIn
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