Mida Gaikwad

Mida Gaikwad has dedicated more than two decades to public service with the Government of the Virgin Islands, bringing professionalism, expertise, and a strong commitment to excellence to every role she has held. Originally from Suriname, formerly known as Dutch Guiana, Mida has called the Virgin Islands home for more than 40 years. Over the years, she has built a fulfilling career, raised her family, and became deeply involved in the community she proudly calls home. A proud mother of two sons, Mida is also a five-year breast cancer survivor whose positive outlook, strength, and resilience continue to inspire those around her. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and a Master's Degree in Finance from the University of the Virgin Islands. Outside of work, Mida enjoys staying active through yoga, water aerobics, and Zumba, while also enjoying the vibrant rhythms of Soca and Salsa dancing. Since joining the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in 2021 as a Senior Grants Analyst, Mida has played an important role in supporting the management and oversight of federal grants. Her responsibilities include preparing federal code requests, Personnel Request Forms (PRFs), budgets, and monthly reports, as well as assisting with the annual Budget Book process, among many other duties. She works closely with government agencies to help ensure that federal funds are expended appropriately, in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in their Notices of Award, and within the required timeframes. What Mida appreciates most about working at OMB is the collaborative environment. She values the teamwork, professionalism, and strong leadership that contribute to the organization's success. Throughout her career, Mida has maintained a strong work ethic and a practical approach to achieving success. She takes pride in being dependable, punctual, and committed to helping agencies effectively navigate their grant responsibilities. Professionally, she is content in her current role and prefers to make a meaningful impact through her work rather than seek the spotlight. For Mida, however, her greatest personal accomplishment is undoubtedly raising her two sons, of whom she is immensely proud. Many colleagues may not know that Mida is also an avid soccer enthusiast. She grew up playing soccer with neighborhood children and has remained passionate about the sport throughout her life. For more than 20 years, she has been actively involved with the Virgin Islands Soccer Federation (USVISF), serving in numerous leadership and administrative capacities, including Executive Board Member, Team Manager, General Secretary, and Match Commissioner. Through her involvement in soccer, Mida has had the opportunity to travel extensively throughout the Caribbean and internationally through CONCACAF and other football related activities. Her commitment to an active lifestyle extends beyond soccer. Mida is also involved in the local running community through the St. Thomas Runners Club, further reflecting her passion for fitness, wellness, and community engagement. As she looks toward the future, Mida hopes to retire in the near future and spend time enjoying the life she has worked so hard to build. One of her dream adventures is to explore Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Guam, the Cook Islands, and other destinations throughout the Pacific. She envisions spending several months traveling, experiencing different cultures, meeting new people, and immersing herself in the communities she visits. For those beginning a career in grants management, Mida offers simple yet valuable advice: learn as much as you can, take notes, attend training courses and webinars, and never miss an opportunity to educate yourself. She believes that continuous learning is one of the most important keys to long-term professional success. Mida's career is a testament to the value of dedication, continuous growth, and service. Her contributions to public service, commitment to grant management, involvement in the community, and unwavering positive spirit have made a lasting impact on those around her.