Shirley Maia-Cusick
Founder & President, Mama Bear Foundation
Shirley Maia-Cusick is the visionary founder and president of the Mama Bear Foundation, a movement rooted in strength, faith, and the unshakable belief that every woman deserves to be seen, heard, and empowered. An immigrant from Brazil who rebuilt her life in the United States after the economic crisis, Shirley has spent over two decades advocating for others through her work in immigration, law, and community leadership.
As the CEO of Worldwide Legal Services, Shirley has dedicated her life to helping families navigate complex legal systems with compassion and integrity. Her journey from international attorney to U.S. citizen, grandmother, and grassroots political candidate; embodies the resilience and courage that defines a Mama Bear.
Shirley founded the Mama Bear Foundation to uplift women who have been overlooked, silenced, or underestimated. Through storytelling, policy engagement, and advocacy, the foundation champions second chances, protective leadership, and maternal strength as forces for lasting change.
Her work has been recognized both locally and internationally, from organizing women across New Jersey to directing an award-winning short film showcased at Cannes. A proud Christian, wife, and grandmother of a U.S. Marine, Shirley leads with love, conviction, and a fierce commitment to building a better future for the next generation.
Fernanda Bessa
Founder Assistant & Coordinator
A highly organized and proactive Executive Personal Assistant with experience in coordination, client relations, and high-level support. I bring a strong background in personal assistance and brand representation, with a focus on efficiency, discretion, and professionalism.
Fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, I excel in managing communications and supporting diverse teams. Known for my energy, reliability, and results-driven mindset, I am committed to streamlining operations and ensuring seamless day-to-day support for leadership.
Bruna Da Silva
Trustee of Mama Bear Foundation
Bruna Da Silva has been a Paralegal since 2016 and grew to be Office Director at Worldwide Legal Services.
She has a Bachelor in Business administration and Speaks Fluent Portuguese, English, and Spanish. She works closely with lawyers in preparing high-demand documentation for our clients.
She is a perfectionist and will find the necessary details in the benefits of our office.
Renata Araújo Machado
Director of AI & Digital Innovation
Renata Machado is a professor, consultant, and Specialist in Artificial Intelligence applied to business, automation with personalized AI agents, and digital marketing. With a strong academic background and extensive practical experience, she has stood out in integrating AI into strategic processes to optimize workflows, automate tasks, and drive results —especially in the field of education.
Passionate about technology and innovation, Renata has been working on the development and training of personalized AI agents for businesses, customized teaching routines, and adaptive learning. She also creates high-impact digital content using AI tools and leads process automation management and data analysis for companies and entrepreneurs. Her mission is to transform challenges into smart, accessible solutions for those looking to apply AI in a strategic and efficient way.
Robert Cusick
Trustee of Mama Bear Foundation
Robert Cusick has served in law enforcement for over 27 years, working primarily as a court record information officer in New Jersey.
An expert in the ins and outs of courts, Robert aims to help clients navigate difficult circumstances by clarifying law enforcement procedures and how they affect individuals.
Outside of his professional life, Robert enjoys hunting, fishing, spending time with his grandchildren and family, and cooking for his wife.