Maria is a SAG-AFTRA actress, vice-chair of PA Film Industry Association, published author, diversity and anti-bullying activist, and educator. She moved to USA in 2001 and did not speak any English. Since then, she got her Master's Degree in teaching English, Communication, and Acting; participated in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials; staged multiple children's theater shows; published an anti-bullying book about the beauty of diversity; performed with her poetry and speaking engagements; and organized multiple film industry events and charitable fundraisers. Additionally, Maria runs a child day care center and a food program that provides free meals to over 1000 children daily.