Mom to Know: Maxine Reyes

Living in Tampa Bay means we get to be a part of a bustling city culture that embraces the developing arts, is proud to be the home of 4,000-military connected families, and promotes leaders who protect and improve the lives of our neighbors. If some of the best things about Tampa Bay could be personified in the contributions of one mother, I am honored to share this interview with my friend, Maxine Reyes.

International Singer & Speaker
Women’s Retreat Facilitator
Self Confidence Coach
Combat Veteran
2022 Florida Veterans Hall of Fame Recipient
Military Spouse
Founder: Courage & Grace Foundation Inc.

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From the Air Force to the Army, you’ve had an incredible career with the U.S. Military. What are some of your highlights?

Maxine Reyes: One of the most profound highlights of my life is reuniting with my husband and daughter after a deployment or a long separation. Another unforgettable experience was entertaining troops in Afghanistan, with my weapon at my waist.

Then, a significant milestone in my journey was overcoming my fear of public speaking. I vividly remember the first time I conducted a safety briefing for my organization as the company commander. As I walked down the long hallway toward the exit, where over 600 soldiers were waiting, I silently prayed that the hallway would never end. The Sergeant Major tried to boost my confidence with encouraging words: “You got this, ma’am!” and “It’s no different from singing!” But in my mind, I was thinking, “It’s definitely different, Sergeant Major!”

Looking back, I realize that I overcame my doubts by being fully present in the moment, drawing strength from the honor of knowing that my leaders had chosen me because they believed in my potential. Once I got up on those steps overlooking the vast grassy field, my creativity kicked in, just as it always does when I’m on stage.

Lastly, I recall a time when I didn’t believe in myself, but others had unwavering confidence in my abilities. I was offered the role of an instructor for a year, tasked with teaching newly graduated lieutenants how to lead in their new roles. The courses I taught included resilience, public speaking, financial management and budgeting, leadership, cultural awareness and organizational/team development.

These roles proved to be pivotal in my Army career and continue to influence my life after active service. I still use and teach these skills to those I mentor, including my daughter.

When did you realize you had a special singing voice, and what made you pursue becoming a stage performer?

Maxine Reyes: I realized as early as 8 years old that I could sing. That’s the age I learned to cook, and those are skills I emulated as I watched my great grandmother, Ersie, who raised me. My mother and my stepfather also sing, and I joined them in singing harmonies while he played the guitar.

Interestingly enough, my biological father has worked as a stage performer for over 40 years, so it runs in my family!

Before my grandmother passed, she questioned why I didn’t put more effort in sharing the talent that God has blessed me with. I reflected on it when she passed in 2019 to do the work. The following year, during the pandemic, I realized that time waits on no one, so why am I waiting? Why not me? I have what it takes and since I love it, I’m doing it!

Videos featuring your music have gone viral on social media, and your songs are available to download on every major platform. Tell us about your work.

Maxine Reyes: I write love songs and songs of inspiration because I believe in the power of music to heal, uplift, and transform. Music has a unique ability to connect with people on a deep emotional level, and through my songs, I aim to provide listeners with a sense of hope and resilience, especially during challenging times.

My goal is to create a space where people can find solace and encouragement, and to remind them that no matter what they’re going through, they are not alone.

You’re not the only artist in your family- your daughter, Victoria Reyes (and former Kid to Know), also has a remarkable point of view with digital animation. Please share why fostering this creativity with your child is so important to you, and how Victoria represents your life’s purpose.

Maxine Reyes: Being Victoria’s mom is the most amazing duty I wholeheartedly embrace.

Fostering creativity in my daughter is incredibly important to me because I believe that artistic expression is not just a talent but a powerful means of communication and self-discovery. Watching Victoria grow into her own as an artist, especially in the field of digital animation, fills me with immense pride. It’s not just about passing down a love for the arts; it’s about empowering her to find her voice and tell her stories in her unique way.

I love watching her play the piano. When Victoria collaborates with me on my music, it feels like we’re connecting on a deeper level. Her growth as a creative individual is a reflection of the love, support, and guidance my husband and I strive to provide, and it reminds me every day why nurturing creativity in our children is one of the most fulfilling aspects of life.

Everything you love has finally come together with the official 501c3 approval of your nonprofit, Courage & Grace Foundation Inc. What is the mission of your charity and who does it serve?

Maxine Reyes: The Courage & Grace Foundation INC. is dedicated to empowering girls and women of the military by providing them with the tools and support needed to reach their full potential. Through programs in leadership, life skills, education, fine arts, performing arts, culture and athletics, we equip girls to become confident leaders of tomorrow and enrich their communities.

Additionally, we inspire women who served, to thrive after service by enhancing their mental health, physical and financial wellness through storytelling, creativity in the Arts, and entrepreneurship. We love sharing their stories.

We envision a world where every girl confidently leads and every woman thrives after service, empowered by the tools, support, and opportunities they need to achieve their fullest potential in all areas of life, and in turn enriches their community.

What can we expect this year from Captain (Ret.) Maxine Reyes, the stage performer and super mom?

Maxine Reyes: After the video for my Christmas/Holiday song “I Got You” went viral on Instagram, listeners have been asking for more music so I’m writing and recording more with my producers.

Also, I am now a playwright. With my debut at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles in August, I am excited about exploring my personal story more and sharing it with audiences locally and internationally.

Finally, my Courage & Grace Podcast is revitalized and available for streaming on your favorite streaming platform. First new episode on 9/1/2024.

What does your family love best about living in Tampa Bay?

Maxine Reyes: We love that it’s not overcrowded. Even though we live near downtown, we surprisingly don’t have any issues with traffic. What’s most enticing is the proximity to the river, the bay, downtown, professional sporting events, and other life essentials— all just a short distance away.

Let’s Get Social! Follow Maxine:
www.maxinereyes.com @courageandgraceworld @maxinereyeslive 

Originally published in the September 2024 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.