From Angola to Maine, NSB’s Sedrina Rodrigues Personifying Perseverance

SOUTH PORTLAND—“It has been, and continues to be, quite a journey.”

Perseverance. Webster’s Dictionary lists its meaning as “persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.” That must be the dictionary Sedrina Manuela Sambo Rodrigues used.

Sedrina is a Customer Relations Representative at Norway Savings Bank’s South Portland branch where she is known for her friendly demeanor and tireless work ethic. She is quick to smile and always happy to have the opportunity to help. Her affability makes customers feel right at home, but less than four years ago, flourishing in Maine seemed more like a dream, out of reach and over 7,000 miles away.

“I’m originally from Angola. I was born into a wonderful family and enjoyed a very nurturing childhood. I’m the second of five children and we all remain very close,” she said. “In Angola, I studied petroleum engineering for one year while at the Jean Piaget de Benguela, but decided my interests are more in the business field.”

In August of 2021, Sedrina began to pursue that passion, making the decision to leave her West African home.

“I first landed in Houston where I have family living,” she said. “While in Texas, I attended an English school by the name of Bilingual Education Institute. There, I learned how to properly use the English language.” 

After hearing about many helpful programs and initiatives available in Maine, Sedrina and her sister, Sevrine, relocated and began to work on furthering their education and possibilities.

“I’m a strong believer in education and opportunities,” said Sedrina.

She quickly took advantage of both, earning a high school diploma in a single year and excelling in her studies at Portland Adult Education and Southern Maine Community College. It was during her time at PAE that she became involved in the school’s Teller Training Program.

“The Teller Training Program allowed me to take a deeper dive into having a better understanding of what teller responsibilities are and how to accurately manage the position,” Sedrina said. “Norway Savings Bank was one of the partners involved with the Teller Training Program and I was fortunate enough to be able to make a great connection.”

For over a year, Sedrina has been successfully connecting with customers and team members alike as a valued member of NSB.

“Sedrina has been so successful since she arrived at NSB. She’s working towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration while still working a full schedule at the South Portland branch,”  said Kyle Hodgkins, Market Manager & Retail Lender VP at NSB. “Her determination and focus are awe-inspiring.”

Her life experience has made a difference for customers in need as well.

“Currently, I speak five languages (Portuguese, French, English, Kikongo, Lingala) and I’m focusing on improving my Spanish now for my sixth language,” said Sedrina. “I have been called upon several times within the bank to translate between employees and foreign speaking customers in my own branch as well as others. I’ve also opened accounts for foreign speaking customers with a lot of success.”  

A lot of success is a phrase that barely scratches the surface of the astounding accomplishments Sedrina has notched in these last three years.

“She’s amazing. NSB is thrilled when individuals take proactive steps to train and learn more about the banking industry and then utilize that education and experience to grow their careers here,” said Jason Fitzgerald, Market & Indirect Relationship Manager RVP at NSB. “Sedrina is one of several examples of this approach that we’re fortunate to have succeeding on a daily basis at the bank. Her personal story and commitment are inspiring and she is someone we’re certainly rooting for and proud to call a team member.”

“I enjoy working at Norway Savings Bank and have made many great friendships along the way,” said Sedrina. “My co-workers are the best! I plan to continue my career here at the bank and continue to learn and grow.”   

Perseverance. The persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success continues from a woman who could have helped Noah Webster define the word.