Meet Mikaela Ingram | Divine Drops submission

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mikaela Ingram and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mikaela, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Divine Drops has a profound social impact by addressing the critical issues surrounding reproductive health and menstrual hygiene in underserved communities. Our organization focuses on three main pillars: providing reusable menstrual products, educating individuals about their menstrual cycles and reproductive health, and promoting a positive period experience.

Empowerment through Education: We conduct workshops and educational programs that empower individuals with knowledge about their reproductive health. By educating both women and men, we aim to break the stigma surrounding menstruation and reproductive health, fostering a more informed and supportive community.

Access to Sustainable Products: We provide reusable menstrual products to those in need, helping to reduce the economic burden associated with purchasing disposable products. This not only improves individual well-being but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing waste.

Community Engagement: Our initiatives often involve collaborating with local organizations, schools, and community groups to expand our reach and ensure that our resources are accessible to those who need them most. By training local leaders and volunteers, we create a network of Reproductive Health Champions who can continue to educate and support their communities long after our programs conclude.

Addressing Inequality: We specifically focus on marginalized populations who may lack access to essential reproductive health education and products. Our work seeks to level the playing field, ensuring that everyone has the resources and knowledge to manage their health confidently.

Through these efforts, Divine Drops is not only improving menstrual health but also fostering empowerment, education, and sustainability within the communities we serve, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more equitable world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career as a travel nurse has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work in nearly 30 hospitals across the country and around the world. This role has not only broadened my clinical skills but also given me a unique perspective on reproductive health from various cultural and healthcare contexts.

One of the things that sets me apart is this diverse experience. I’ve seen firsthand how women’s health issues are often similar across different regions, yet the approaches to care can vary significantly. These “aha” moments have been pivotal in shaping my understanding of the challenges women face globally. It was through these insights that I felt compelled to start Divine Drops, a nonprofit focused on empowering women through education and access to resources for menstrual and reproductive health.

The journey hasn’t always been easy. Balancing my work as a travel nurse while launching a nonprofit required a lot of resilience and determination. There were moments of doubt and uncertainty, but I learned to embrace those challenges as opportunities for growth. I found strength in my experiences and leaned on my support system, including mentors and my family, to navigate the hurdles along the way.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of empathy and listening. Every community has unique needs, and it’s essential to approach them with an open heart and a willingness to learn. I want the world to know that Divine Drops is not just an organization; it’s a movement toward destigmatizing menstruation and empowering individuals with knowledge and resources.

I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished so far and excited about the future of Divine Drops. We’re just getting started, and I truly believe we can make a lasting impact in the lives of women everywhere.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting the area, I would take them on an unforgettable journey to Tanzania. From the moment we land, the adventure would begin! I’d introduce them to the vibrant local culture by treating them to some delicious Tanzanian food, like ugali and nyama choma, at a cozy restaurant, surrounded by laughter and the warmth of my great friends who live there.

One of the highlights of our trip would be going on a safari, exploring the breathtaking landscapes and getting up close with the incredible wildlife. Imagine us riding through the park, eyes wide with wonder as we spot giraffes, zebras, and elephants, all while enjoying a picnic lunch under the vast African sky.

Another unforgettable experience would be attending a reproductive health workshop in an old classroom, with open windows letting in the fresh air and the sounds of the city. It would be such a meaningful way to engage with the community, learning and sharing insights with local leaders about reproductive health education.

Of course, no trip to Tanzania would be complete without a thrilling ride on the back of a boda boda (motorbike). Picture us zipping through the bustling streets, feeling the wind in our hair as we head towards a stunning waterfall. Once there, we’d spend the afternoon swimming in the refreshing water, taking in the beauty of our surroundings and laughing about our wild ride.

Throughout the week, we’d immerse ourselves in the local culture, exploring markets, trying various street foods, and perhaps visiting a nearby village to connect with the people and their traditions. Every moment would be filled with excitement, learning, and joy, creating memories that we would cherish for years to come.

By the end of our trip, I know my friend would leave Tanzania with a deeper understanding of the culture, incredible stories to tell, and a heart full of unforgettable experiences. It would truly be the best time ever!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my grandma, Kathryn. It’s really hard to pick just one mentor when I’ve had so much amazing support along the way, but my grandma truly stands out. At 93 years old, she has an incredible legacy as a nurse, serving our local community for over 40 years.

Her stories and experiences with her patients have not only inspired me but also shaped my understanding of compassion and care in healthcare. From the very beginning of my journey with Divine Drops, she has been my biggest cheerleader and confidant. Her unwavering support and belief in my vision have helped me overcome challenges and stay motivated. I am incredibly grateful for her guidance and love, which continue to inspire me every day.

Website: https://www.divinedrops.org

Instagram: @divinedrops_

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/divine-drops

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/divinedropss/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divinedrops1411

Image Credits
The one with me holding the pad is Grace Moffitt Photography