Anna Mbengam was born and raised in Cameroon, though she spent most of her life living in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating from high school, she signed up for the Army Reserve and simultaneously enrolled in her first year of college. She was recruited to run track and field at American International College in Springfield, Massachusetts. It was there that she studied Political Science and Criminal Justice. Upon her completion of Basic Training with the Army Reserve, Anna was introduced to the game of rugby.
It soon became her newfound love. She was so infatuated with the sport that she focused her attention on playing rugby and maintaining a balanced student-athlete life. It was during this time of her life that she fully came to understand the importance of focus, commitment, and courage.
Anna realized the complexities and benefits of team- work and collaboration when dealing with complicated circumstances on the field.
The rugby scrum is a microcosm for the development of a cohesive team. All players in the scrum bring their own individual abilities to work together to achieve a common objective against strong competition. Anna recognized that this same method of cohesiveness could be used in any team activity, whether in sports, business, or the workplace.
After graduating from college, Anna was unsure of what kind of career she wanted to pursue. She was introduced to the idea of becoming a Scrum Master, and though she chuckled when she first heard the role’s title, she was curious to learn more. She did her own research and joined the Agile Com- munity of Practice, where she networked and got her first Scrum Master position. She was delighted and anxious to begin this Journey due to her timid nature.
Her book, A Soldier’s Guide to Becoming a Scrum Master, was inspired by coaching new and transitioning Soldiers who needed a step-by-step approach. She has always wanted to share the information she wished she had when she started her own journey.
