Meet Margaret Joy Weaver. An accomplished Entrepreneur and Passionate Transformational Leader and Community Builder
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Q: Can you tell us about the many things that you’re involved with here in Sedona?
A: I am the Founder and Chair of the Sedona International City of Peace, together with Jane Perini, Wib Middleton, Michael Iskowitzand my former husband Tim Maloney. We started this in 2012. as part of the International Cities of Peace community. At that time there were 35 groups, and today, there are over 400. We do various events in town, inspiring other people and organizations to foster a culture of peace. We aimed to bring Films for Peace, the First Sedona Arts for Peace Week, Meditation Mondays and our signature event – Sedona Human Library. This program allows people to share their stories and dissolve prejudices and stereotypes by creating a better understanding.
I was involved with the Sedona International Film Festival for ten years as the Chair, vice-chair, secretary, and was on the board when we hired Patrick Schweiss. I have been a significant patron in building our theaters and encouraging dynamic conversations around movies that matter. I was also involved with the Mental Health Coalition with Barbara Littrell. I am currently the Vice Chair on the Board of the Community Library Sedona.
Q: Tell us a little bit about beautiful Noorul Jawaheer?
A: I had been in a marriage for 27 years, and in March of 2015, we amicably went our separate ways. There’s a woman in town who has been sponsoring the Foreign Exchange Program, and she asked me if I wanted to host a foreign exchange student. I became a ‘welcome host’as a single woman. Low and behold, the person she connected me with Noorul from India. I still have the first email she sent to me. She came here two months later. I’m have co-parented with her parents for ten plus years. I became her guardian in case something happened here. She graduated NAU after studying art and documentary filmmaking. When originally interviewed She was about to turn 21 – she is now 25. She got her MA in Applied Sociology and is working in Flagstaff. I’m such a believer in having different eras in our life. I feel that this is the daughter that I had always wanted to have.
Q: Who is the most exciting person you’ve met here in Sedona?
A: My list is long. But I’m going to say Barbara Litrell and Patrick Schweiss. Barbara is one of the humblest people I’ve met. She spearheaded the Mental Health Coalition of the Verde Valley, and I participated for personal reasons to take care of a sister who has had schizophrenia. She has done so much for Sedona. And there’s Patrick! I’ve known him since he started at the Film Festival. There is no one like him. He has outstanding passion for film, community and FUN. He has such positive energy.
Q: Choosing anyone who would you love to have dinner with and why?
A: My daughter, Noorul. It’s challenging times for our youth and for those who have immigrated here. Every time we have dinner, she surprises me with something like, “Mama, I have something to tell you.” It gives me a clear understanding that we have to be present, bring full attention and listen to our youth and guide them to guide themselves.
Q: When your friends or family come to visit, where do you take them?
A: I have many friends who come here to Sedona, but a lot of times, it depends on what interests them. My old home was at the base of Bear Mountain, which is a very sacred area. Now, my house in the heart of Sedona. I take people hiking and to places like Ant Hill. Also, I have introduced many people to healers in town. One of my favorite healers and best friends is Enocha ‘Ranjita’ Ryan. She lives up in Canyon. “Your Heart’s Home Retreat Sanctuary” is the name of her place, so many of my friends, including myself, have gone through different ceremonies, rituals, healing, and talking circles.
Q: What one thing draws a sense of meaning?
A: I can’t answer that without sharing a story about India. In 2001, I was at Dahl & Di Luca having dinner, and I was taking my former husband back to Vietnam (he was a Vietnam Veteran) and on the way, we were going to go to India. The waiter asked, ‘You’re going to India? When?’ We said, “February of 2001”. He said, “you should come to Maha Kumbha Mela.” It was the largest gathering of humans. Sixty million people go there for six weeks. We arrived the night after the full moon when 23-million people were there. It was the first time that I had this transcendental experience of being deeply connected to humanity and to all as one being. I didn’t understand it, it was an experience I will never forget, and I’ve been in pursuit of my spiritual journey from that point on. I have been a deeply dedicated seeker and teacher of the Oneness Movement.
Q: How would your closest friends describe you?
A: She would say that I am generous, heartful, determined, and someone who brings healing to our heartaches.
