PAGNY Feature: Maakeya Allston

In honor of Black History Month, we’re happy to feature Maakeya Allston, Healthcare Recruiter for PAGNY! Maakeya has been a member of the PAGNY Recruitment Team since December 2022, and has helped us staff hundreds of healthcare providers at our NYC Health + Hospitals partners.

This year's theme for Black History Month is "African Americans and the Arts," aimed to showcase the contributions Black Americans have made to American literature, performing and visual arts, and music. This week, we interviewed Maakeya to learn more about what Black History Month and Black American artists mean to her.

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PAGNY: What does Black History Month mean to you?

Maakeya: Black History Month is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the Black community in the United States and celebrate our culture, heritage, and accomplishments. Black Americans’ contributions have shaped the national culture, politics, society, and economy, and have withstood the tests of time. Black History Month is a time for awareness, a time to celebrate how far we’ve come, and a time to focus on how far we still have to go.

PAGNY: How does your culture or identity impact your work?

Maakeya: I am grateful to be a part of an organization where I can bring my whole self to work. My cultural identity, education, and training positively impacts the work I do. I bring a unique perspective and innovative ideas to work each day, which helps me build strong professional relationships with the NYC Health + Hospitals/Correctional Health Services team to fill openings.

PAGNY: What are some quotes from famous Black American artists that inspire you?