The MAAFA  Gina LeVon Simpson Writer & Director, The Maafa Influence Gina LeVon Simpson the Writer and Director of the MAAFA Influence is living a dream come true. This experience of directing this production is allowing GINA to take her passion for 'our' ancestors, educating our youth about their history, and combining it with the arts through story telling from the pages of our history books to the stage in this dramatic original production. Gina is as unique as her name and her passion for community, African culture, her people and story-telling shines through in everything she does and through the beat of her

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Gina moved to Bridgeport twenty-two years ago. She works creatively to shape her community and our world. At age of five, Gina started writing poetry and stories as a way to travel in her mind, living through the stories so vividly as she shared with family and friends.

Her professional career started at the Maria Regina College in Syracuse, NY, where she started working for the Westcott Youth Organization writing poetry, producing and acting in Public Service Announcements. She also hosted local radio and television shows and later took classes at Sound View Community Media where she was blessed with receiving two award winning shows.
Gina's dedication and hard work gained recognition as the recipient of the 2001 Tommy Award for New Production, and in 2002 she received a Tommy Award for Innovation. More than two decades ago Gina started directing church plays and because of her creativity and talents Gina starred in her own one woman show for the past 15 years. The mother of two children, son Jeffrey and daughter Jenita, lovingly called Gina's precious "honey bronze jewels".
Currently, Gina is employed by the city of Bridgeport's Board of Education. She is also on the Music and Arts for Humanity Board of Directors. Through her work in the community and her job she is able to see the wonderful things that are happening in Bridgeport and within the school system.

Gina LeVon Simpson, is a proud and faithful disciple of Mount Aery Baptist Church.
Gina says, "I guess one would say that I have been drumming most of my life. I would create rhythms on the walls, pots, pans, family packs of chicken and ground beef when I was growing up. My children and I would clean the house by singing and creating rhythms. I meditate with my drum and I love to play it and tell stories as a way to communicate, educate and remind all who hear it of the hope of yesterday and promise of today."