Alicia Soares Meneghim Petersen

Share your military spouse story:
I am Alicia, 26 years old, Brazilian/Italian, and I never imagined that meeting a cute guy on a flight while I was living in Germany on my own would lead me into the military spouse community. I was building an independent life overseas, and suddenly I found myself navigating a whole new life, one that came with frequent moves, unfamiliar systems, and starting over more than once. After relocating from Germany to Louisiana (two places that couldn’t be more different) I realized something important: fulfillment doesn’t depend on location. It depends on mindset, community, and support. Once I found my voice as a military spouse, everything changed. I stopped seeing the title as something that limited me and began carrying it with pride. Now, I’m committed to living a full, intentional life regardless of duty station, and my goal is to help other spouses, especially those feeling new or overwhelmed, believe they can do the same.

Describe any leadership positions or provide an overview of your leadership contributions within the military community.
My first leadership role in the military community was as a Key Spouse in Louisiana, where I supported newly arrived families helping organize welcome coffees and community events, learning the importance of proactive leadership during transitions. After returning to Germany, I expanded my involvement as Public Relations Director for Americans Working Around the Globe (AWAG) where I currently serve. Inspired after attending the Annual Seminar, I applied for a Board of Governors position to further support spouses through strategic communication and modern outreach. I also serve as Manager for the RESA Thrift Shop, where my marketing efforts along with an amazing team, helped generate an additional $100,000 in sales in my first year, directly benefiting the military community. Additionally, as RESA Publicity Chair, I use digital marketing to increase awareness, engagement, and membership, focusing on inclusive, impactful community building.

What programs or projects are you currently involved in that support the needs of military families?
I currently serve as the Public Relations Director for Americans Working Around the Globe (AWAG), supporting military spouses through strategic communication, digital outreach, and promotion of professional development opportunities. I also serve as Thrift Shop Manager for the RESA Thrift Shop, where proceeds are reinvested directly into the military community. As RESA Publicity Chair, I use of my marketing skills to increase awareness, engagement, and membership. I currently serve on the Stars and Stripes KMC Spouses Night Out planning committee, organizing a night that bring spouses together and strengthen community connections. Through my TikTok account, I share tips, resources, and local "Life in Germany" insights to help newly arrived spouses adjust quickly, feel confident, and connect with their new community.

What moments best reflect your impact on building inclusive community among military spouses?
Some of the most meaningful moments have come from intentionally reaching out to younger and newly arrived spouses, helping them feel welcomed and confident in the military community. Through my roles with RESA, AWAG, and Stars & Stripes KMC Spouses Night Out, I organize events, lead outreach, and share resources that connect spouses across ranks, backgrounds, and experience levels. Seeing younger spouses step up to volunteer, join committees, or take on leadership roles reminds me that inclusive communities are built when everyone feels their voice matters and no one is left on the sidelines. Through my personal TikTok account I have also proudly gotten a couple spouses to join our spouses' club and even become a board member, showing me that my efforts, even if not broadly seen, do make a difference.

Identify your main advocacy effort and describe your personal connection to the cause.
My main advocacy effort focuses on supporting younger military spouses, a group I deeply relate to as one myself. I often feel like the youngest person in the room. Early in my involvement I was hesitant to speak up or step into leadership. I want to change that experience for others by encouraging younger spouses to feel confident, valued, and empowered to engage in the community. Through inclusivity, shared knowledge, and outreach, I aim to empower them, make connections, and encourage them to step into leadership roles—showing that age or experience does not limit their impact. Much the contrary, I see more than ever, the need to engage young military spouses in our community to bridge the gap and take on new roles.

Summarize your advocacy outreach strategies, including any events, media involvement, or other communication efforts.
My advocacy combines in-person engagement with digital outreach to reach all military spouses, especially younger and newly arrived ones. I organize and promote community events, professional development seminars, and mentoring programs to foster connection and growth. I manage social media platforms, newsletters, and LinkedIn content to share resources, highlight spouse achievements, and promote inclusivity. Additionally, I create TikTok content offering practical tips for living in the KMC area, navigating Germany, and building a fulfilling life overseas. By blending traditional outreach with modern media, I ensure spouses feel informed, connected, and empowered.

What do you hope to accomplish with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year^® title?
With this title, I hope to continue using my platform to amplify the voices of military spouses—especially younger and newly arrived families, by sharing resources, mentorship, and guidance to help them thrive overseas. As a positive and optimistic person, I aim to live a fulfilling life and bring those around me along on that journey. Drawing from my second tour in Germany, I want to help others transition smoothly, build community, and feel confident in their roles. I hope to inspire younger spouses to see their adaptability and resilience as leadership and empower them to make a lasting impact regardless of their age or military spouse "seasoning".