aBOUT Munàh

Munàh, also known as Maria Benedetti, is a transformational speaker, women’s empowerment mentor and coach, award-winning storyteller and founder of Munàh Global. Her journey is a living testament to resilience, courage and the power of legacy.

Born in Portugal to Cape Verdean parents, Munàh grew up as the third of seven children in a deprived area. By 15, she was a mother; by 17, a single mother of two. At 19, she left Portugal for the UK with little more than a suitcase and a determination to build a better future.

Despite language barriers, no formal education and years of hardship in low-paid jobs, she persevered. At 34, she became the first in her family to graduate from university with a Bachelor of Science with Honours Degree in Midwifery. She progressed into senior leadership roles within UK healthcare and pioneered initiatives improving care and tackling inequalities for underrepresented pregnant women.

At 40, after building her family, raising four children and years of putting others first, Munàh honoured her childhood dream of becoming a singer-songwriter.  Releasing her first song became more than a personal milestone; it was a declaration to women everywhere:

“It’s never too late to rise. It’s never too late to lead. It’s never too late to live your purpose.”

Today, as founder of the Kriola Di Força movement, Munàh continues to inspire women to embrace their stories, find their voice and create legacies that outlive their challenges.

The Kriola Di Força movement was born from her song “Kriolas”,  an anthem celebrating the courage, resilience, and determination of Cape Verdean women. What began as a musical tribute has grown into a living, breathing movement that unites women from Cape Verde and across the PALOP countries, creating spaces for healing, empowerment, and leadership that transcend borders.