Adele Ngoy has a remarkable presence that right away reveals her strength, creativity, and compassion. As a gifted fashion designer and business owner, she is constantly managing the balance between design inspiration and day-to-day operation, all with seeming ease. Her personal story is incredible - Adele fled a war zone with three young children and landed in Portland without speaking English. Beyond her success in the fashion business, she is deeply committed to uplifting immigrant women by teaching them new skills and through Women United Around The World, the organization that she founded to help immigrant women find independence and community connection of their own. Stay tuned for more information on the annual Women United Around The World fashion show. for now, here is Adele in her own words.
My name is Adele Masengo Ngoy. I am a fashion designer and business owner. Beyond being known for fashion design, I appreciate being recognized as a community leader.
When I think of Portland and Maine, I think of the word home.
One of the Mainers who most inspires me is Mary Allen Lindemann, who owns Coffee by Design. I admire her dedication to helping women and her commitment to the community.
One of the biggest challenges I see in our community right now is that young people are leaving. We need to find a way to make sure our diverse industries (fishing, farming, textile, and law) have professional opportunities for young people so they stay in Maine or come back after college so we can strengthen our economy.
What is Portland / Maine’s greatest asset?
Maine is beautiful. Our vacationland welcomes people from all over the world.
How would you like to see Portland / Maine changed 5 years from now?
More affordable housing for the people of Maine. There is a lot of new residential construction but it is all luxury.
What are your favorite local spots?
Local Restaurant: Terlingua
Local Store: D. Cole Jewelers
My favorite outdoor spot is Baxter Boulevard. I walk it 4-5 times a week when I can and the weather allows.
What are your thoughts about women's leadership?
Women’s leadership is unique because we are intentional about empowering others, working, and growing together. We can do better to make ourselves available to women outside of our social, and professional circles and cultural/communities. We have to work together across our differences.
How/why did you decide to make Maine home?
Maine was a quiet and safe place for me to raise my three young children after I fled my birth country, the Democratic Republic of Congo, because of war. I don’t regret choosing Maine as my home.
