BCA-USA MIRROR
PROFILES IN SERVICE: BCA-USA Q & A WITH OUTGOING BCA-USA CHIEF WHIP MA ANDIN FOLABIT (BCA-USA CHIEF WHIP 2014 – 2018) In 2014, Ma Andin Folabit of BCA’s Eastern Chapter was elected as the chief whip of BCA-USA. In the last four years she has gone on to leave her mark on the position and the organization. Known for combining great wit and humility while bringing order to BCA meetings, Ma Andin endeared herself to many on the National Executive Committee and the organization as a whole. Along the way, she also introduced new jargon to the organization by using the phrase “lastminutedotcom” in reference to the tendency by some members to take action only at the last minute. Here she reflects on her time in office.
BCA-USA Mirror: Tell us when you became involved in BCA and why you decided to run for office. Answer: I attended my first BCA convention in Atlanta in May 2007. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting folks from back home, and it reminded me of my motherland, my beloved Bali-Nyonga. The event was an encapsulating reminder of our beautiful cultural heritage. I soon after registered to become a member of BCA. I had always been part of similar groups back in Cameroon. I felt welcomed and felt that I had something to offer the group and my kin folk. In 2014, after much encouragement and support, I felt able to run for the post of Protocol/ Ma Andin Folabit Chief whip, a post that embodies bringing order times and have memories I will always cherish. and serving. I am honored to be part of BCA. Most importantly, I have learnt that everyone has an opinion and can justify their reasoning for BCA-USA Mirror: It’s been four years since you were their action. I have learnt to be more accepting of elected Chief Whip. What has the experience been like differences, to be patient and to be less judgmental. for you? It has however, not been without its challenges and controversies. There is no role in the world that Answer: It’s been a long time! The experience has does not attract such, unless one was ineffective been a good one and very interesting. I have been at that role. able to talk with many people and got to know them, something which wouldn’t have been possible if BCA-USA Mirror: What did you learn about yourself I were just a member. I have had some very fun and about BCA-USA during that time? 30
BALI CULTURAL ASSOCIATION - USA
