From Maranyundo to Brown University

We’re thrilled to shine a light on one of our incredible alumnae whose journey from the Maranyundo Girls School to Brown University is a powerful testament to hard work, mentorship, and the strength of community.

Dominique Iragena attended Maranyundo from 2018 to 2021 for grades 7-10. Today, she is a freshman at Brown University, where she is pursuing a degree in Theater and Performance Studies, a path she says was shaped deeply by her experience at Maranyundo.

“Maranyundo definitely played a big part in making me who I am,” she reflects. Among the most valuable lessons she carried with her are discipline and time management. These skills, she says, were essential in helping her set goals and stay committed to achieving them and applies these habits daily at Brown.

Powerful Connections at MGS

One of her most memorable moments at Maranyundo was her very first poetry performance which was a defining experience that almost didn’t happen. At the last minute, the event was nearly canceled. But thanks to the advocacy of the school’s Head Girl, who stood up for her and made sure the performance went on, she was able to step onto the stage and share her voice. That experience sparked a deeper passion for performance and showcased the powerful relationships she made at the Maranyundo Girls School.

She also fondly recalls her matron, Sister Yvonne, whose encouragement taught her that she will make mistakes in life but the important part is learning from them and moving forward. She told us the advice Sister Yvonne gave her “really inspired me and helps me at Brown.”

Now thriving in her first year at Brown, she feels deeply grateful for the foundation Maranyundo gave her, not only academically, but in the values, courage, and community that continue to guide her.

We are so proud of her journey and can’t wait to see where her talent, determination, and heart take her next.