Masimba Zengeni
Assurance Senior Manager
People & Culture Director
Michele Richter
Tell us a bit about your family and your life outside of work.
My husband, Michael, and I are so proud of our blended family, especially as our children – Nathan, Joseph, Daniel and Emma – assert their independence and fly the nest one by one. My parenting journey began with the life-changing love and devastating loss of my 13-month-old son, Brendan. After losing another child at five months pregnant, I began to look into adoption. My journey took me to China (twice!), and life has been an adventure ever since.
This honor made me think about our ability as parents to find strength within ourselves. I take a glass-half-full approach to life. I wouldn’t have the beautiful children I have today without the painful losses I’ve experienced. While far from being a perfect parent, I learn from my kids every day. I wish there was a manual for every situation, but there isn’t! It is a privilege to be a parent, to work at BDO and to be recognized for both.
What does being named a Working Parent of the Year mean to you?
I work with caring and kind people who showed me support during the most difficult times of my life. That’s why I’ve been at BDO for 24 years. My team looks out for me in many ways. For instance, when I’m on vacation and know I should be enjoying every minute with my family, I sometimes have a hard time disconnecting from work. My amazing colleagues encourage me to unplug, reminding me they have my back. They help me remember what’s most important.
How has BDO helped you thrive as a working parent?
You can accomplish anything, but understand that things don’t always happen the way you initially envision them. Additionally, do something for yourself from time to time and recharge, especially when your kids are little. Self-care sets you up for success, and that includes simple activities like reading or going to the park. You’re only as good to others as you are to yourself. Be patient
with yourself.
What advice would you give to someone who is early in their working parent journey?
Remain humble and kind. One time, I got an email from my son’s teacher saying he was the first one to make a new student feel welcomed. He knows firsthand what it’s like being the new kid. The student’s parent also reached out to say how grateful they were for my son. This is just one example of many where my children taught me things without even realizing it. They remind me daily why I wanted to be a parent in the first place.
Are there any lessons that your children have taught you that you’ve applied in your day-to-day professional life?
Check out some of Michele’s favorite photos!
People & Culture Director
Michele Richter
Michele Richter
People &
Culture Director
Assurance Senior Manager
Masimba Zengeni
Assurance Senior Manager
Masimba Zengeni
Check out some of Masimba’s favorite photos!
The greatest lesson they’ve taught me is to be kind. I think all parents are anxious about how their children will be received in the world. When I see the way my kids light up when someone shows them kindness, I’m in awe. It inspires me to approach my teams in the same way. I try to practice patience and prioritize kindness in all aspects of my life, and it’s noticeable how a little empathy goes a long way.
Are there any lessons that your children have taught you that you’ve applied in your day-to-day professional life?
No one can do everything alone, so I encourage you to speak up when you need help. Talk to your leaders and just be honest with them if you’re having issues balancing your workload. In my experience, they are more understanding than you may expect. You can’t get help in isolation, so maintaining an open dialogue is key to being a successful working parent.
What advice would you give to someone who is early in their working parent journey?
I’m blessed to work in a true “people first” environment. For so many at BDO – especially working parents – flexibility is an essential differentiator. When needed, I can step away to be there for my family and finish up the day’s work after hours. My leaders here understand that while work is important, so is family. I’m able to share responsibilities with my wife and be present for important family moments, all while having the support of my team.
How has BDO helped you thrive as a working parent?
It was such a surprise to receive this honor. It got me thinking about how much my life has changed since I became a parent. Anyone who says parenthood doesn’t change you is lying! I used to live life a bit more spontaneously, but raising three little ones requires me and my wife to plan ten steps ahead. I’ve definitely learned to manage my time more. Being recognized in this way gives me hope that I’m doing something right.
What does being named a Working Parent of the Year mean to you?
I came to the U.S. in 2015 from Zambia and met my wife here. We have seven-year-old twin girls — Anashe and Anatswanashe — and we welcomed our son, Masimba Jr., in June. My wife works full time as a nurse, so we are both busy trying to juggle the demands of our jobs and our kids’ lives. Our twins are neurodivergent, and understanding their learning needs has kept us adaptable. We’re pretty much nonstop, but I feel blessed to have a beautiful family.
Tell us a bit about your family and your life outside of work.
Working Parents of the Year
Michele Richter
People &
Culture Director
Assurance Senior Manager
Masimba Zengeni
Assurance Senior Manager
Masimba Zengeni
Check out some of Masimba’s favorite photos!
The greatest lesson they’ve taught me is to be kind. I think all parents are anxious about how their children will be received in the world. When I see the way my kids light up when someone shows them kindness, I’m in awe. It inspires me to approach my teams in the same way. I try to practice patience and prioritize kindness in all aspects of my life, and it’s noticeable how a little empathy goes a long way.
Are there any lessons that your children have taught you that you’ve applied in your day-to-day professional life?
No one can do everything alone, so I encourage you to speak up when you need help. Talk to your leaders and just be honest with them if you’re having issues balancing your workload. In my experience, they are more understanding than you may expect. You can’t get help in isolation, so maintaining an open dialogue is key to being a successful working parent.
What advice would you give to someone who is early in their working parent journey?
I’m blessed to work in a true “people first” environment. For so many at BDO – especially working parents – flexibility is an essential differentiator. When needed, I can step away to be there for my family and finish up the day’s work after hours. My leaders here understand that while work is important, so is family. I’m able to share responsibilities with my wife and be present for important family moments, all while having the support of my team.
How has BDO helped you thrive as a working parent?
It was such a surprise to receive this honor. It got me thinking about how much my life has changed since I became a parent. Anyone who says parenthood doesn’t change you is lying! I used to live life a bit more spontaneously, but raising three little ones requires me and my wife to plan ten steps ahead. I’ve definitely learned to manage my time more. Being recognized in this way gives me hope that I’m doing something right.
What does being named a Working Parent of the Year mean to you?
I came to the U.S. in 2015 from Zambia and met my wife here. We have seven-year-old twin girls — Anashe and Anatswanashe — and we welcomed our son, Masimba Jr., in June. My wife works full time as a nurse, so we are both busy trying to juggle the demands of our jobs and our kids’ lives. Our twins are neurodivergent, and understanding their learning needs has kept us adaptable. We’re pretty much nonstop, but I feel blessed to have a beautiful family.
Tell us a bit about your family and your life outside of work.
Masimba Zengeni
Assurance Senior Manager
People & Culture Director
Michele Richter
People & Culture Director
Michele Richter
Check out some of Michele’s favorite photos!
Remain humble and kind. One time, I got an email from my son’s teacher saying he was the first one to make a new student feel welcomed. He knows firsthand what it’s like being the new kid. The student’s parent also reached out to say how grateful they were for my son. This is just one example of many where my children taught me things without even realizing it. They remind me daily why I wanted to be a parent in the first place.
Are there any lessons that your children have taught you that you’ve applied in your day-to-day professional life?
You can accomplish anything, but understand that things don’t always happen the way you initially envision them. Additionally, do something for yourself from time to time and recharge, especially when your kids are little. Self-care sets you up for success, and that includes simple activities like reading or going to the park. You’re only as good to others as you are to yourself. Be patient
with yourself.
What advice would you give to someone who is early in their working parent journey?
I work with caring and kind people who showed me support during the most difficult times of my life. That’s why I’ve been at BDO for 24 years. My team looks out for me in many ways. For instance, when I’m on vacation and know I should be enjoying every minute with my family, I sometimes have a hard time disconnecting from work. My amazing colleagues encourage me to unplug, reminding me they have my back. They help me remember what’s most important.
How has BDO helped you thrive as a working parent?
This honor made me think about our ability as parents to find strength within ourselves. I take a glass-half-full approach to life. I wouldn’t have the beautiful children I have today without the painful losses I’ve experienced. While far from being a perfect parent, I learn from my kids every day. I wish there was a manual for every situation, but there isn’t! It is a privilege to be a parent, to work at BDO and to be recognized for both.
What does being named a Working Parent of the Year mean to you?
My husband, Michael, and I are so proud of our blended family, especially as our children – Nathan, Joseph, Daniel and Emma – assert their independence and fly the nest one by one. My parenting journey began with the life-changing love and devastating loss of my 13-month-old son, Brendan. After losing another child at five months pregnant, I began to look into adoption. My journey took me to China (twice!), and life has been an adventure ever since.
Tell us a bit about your family and your life outside of work.
Working Parents of the Year
