Sheenah Tonga

Branch Administrative Supervisor

Assistant Vice President

The Stuck Bivens-Rose Group

What are you working on now? 

I am constantly looking for opportunities to serve the community whether that be through an organization or a simple act of kindness.  Most recently I was able to assist Camp High Hopes with setting up for Rib Fest and volunteering at the Woodbury County Fair.

What is your vision for the future? / What would you like to see happen in Siouxland?

I believe the year of COVID/2020 taught us all a lesson; we need each other. We need community support.  All the things we once took for granted, or as a luxury, were missed. It’s time to band back together and move forward. I would love to see Siouxland do just that. Find something that excites you; find your passion. Whatever that is, find a way to support it.  I’d encourage you to do it as a family, a group of friends, co-workers, etc. Be the one to lead the charge and soon we will have a community full of leaders!

What are you doing to make that happen?

Whenever an opportunity to serve presents itself, I try to recruit others to join me in the effort. Not only is it fun to collectively achieve something awesome but it could help someone else find their passion. There is a joy in giving back but often we think we can’t do or give enough.  That is not the case; the simple, smallest act can mean the world to someone.  

Through the COVID pandemic, I have made every attempt to make those around me feel loved and cared for through outbound phone calls, cards, small gifts dropped at doorsteps, grocery runs, dinner drop-offs, or simple messages to know someone is thinking of them.  

How can people help you make that happen? 

Anytime you find yourself with an opportunity to serve, invite someone to join you. Be an example and lead the way.  You’d be surprised how many people are just waiting for that invite! 

What is the most important key to success?

The key to success is continuing to do what you know you need to even when you don’t feel like it. Stay consistent in your efforts and success will follow. 

What is one challenging life experience that taught you something you’ve been able to use to your benefit or to the benefit of others?

It feels like every day comes with a new lesson but the most challenging came from 2006-2013 while my husband and I were undergoing fertility treatment. The dream of many young girls is to find prince charming and start a family; it was certainly mine, but I never dreamt it would be as challenging. The journey had a lot of trials. Through it all, I learned to let go, endure, and enjoy the journey.  The story being written was ours.  Around every corner, in every valley or the top of every peak a lesson was learned.  I’ve been blessed to share our story and help several couples through their fertility journeys. Once we opened up about our trials, the number of Facebook messages I received asking for guidance, support etc., was astonishing. Everyone’s journey is so different, and you never know who you may inspire or impact by sharing yours.

What quote or saying inspires you? 

“Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.” – Howard Zinn

Volunteer:

Woodbury County Fair

Siouxland Wrestling Academy

Camp High Hopes

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

American Heart Association

United Way of Siouxland

Noah’s Hope

Siouxland Humane Society