Built to Make a Difference That Lasts
MAIA is the Matrescence Empowerment Programme. A 30-month programme of education, support and community for working mothers and their employers. Built by women who lived it, delivered by experts who understand it.
Lucy Wilson Created MAIA Because It Needed to Exist
I found the transition to motherhood incredibly challenging, and I knew there was so much more I could have learnt to help myself. I'm a huge believer in the power of matrescence education, and in everything else we can do for ourselves to feel and live better.
I'm passionate about businesses investing in supporting women at one of the most profound times of change in their lives. There is a solid business case for doing so, and when it is done well, everyone wins. Women thrive, teams strengthen and organisations grow.
I believe in action and making a difference, which is why I built MAIA. I knew we could make a massive impact on the mental health and wellbeing of new mothers. I'm incredibly proud of the amazing team of experts who have joined me in this mission. Throughout the programme I'll be your guide every step of the way, hosting live sessions, working alongside the expert team and showing up for you in our community all along the journey.
What is Matrescence?
Matrescence
The profound physical, psychological and identity transformation a woman undergoes as she becomes a mother. First coined by medical anthropologist Dana Raphael in 1973, matrescence describes changes as significant as adolescence, yet it remains almost entirely unsupported in most workplaces.
Scientists have shown that the neurological and hormonal changes during matrescence are as significant as those experienced during adolescence. The brain itself is restructured. Identity shifts. Priorities change. The woman who returns from maternity leave is not the same person who left.
Understanding this is not just good for mothers. It is transformative for organisations that want to retain their best female talent.
Built on Three Pillars
Everything within MAIA is designed to ensure women feel valued, understood and empowered throughout their pregnancy and into early motherhood. For organisations, MAIA delivers measurable results in retention, wellbeing and culture.
Seven expert-led education series covering the topics that matter most to new mothers. Matrescence, Mental Health, Maternity Leave, Nutrition, Sleep, Mindfulness and Breathwork. Every module includes a live session with the expert so participants can ask questions in real time.
Access to our in-house midwife, a maternal mental health psychotherapist, Shine Strong wellbeing classes with digital nature, meditations and affirmations, guided nature breathing moments and an exclusive antenatal colouring guide created by our midwife.
A warm, welcoming private online hub where women connect with others on the same journey. Guided by Lucy Wilson throughout, the community is a safe, judgement-free space for real conversations, peer support and celebrating every milestone together.
Eight Expert-Led Series
Every education module is delivered by a specialist in their field and includes a live session so participants can engage directly, ask questions and connect with other women in the group.
Knowledge really is power. Understanding what we may experience can make a profound difference to the mental health and wellbeing of new mothers.
Real Support When It Matters Most
You Will Never Feel Alone
Our online community is all about creating a warm, welcoming space for mothers who might feel a bit isolated on their journey. Pregnancy and motherhood can be tough, especially without a strong support network.
The MAIA community is a safe, judgement-free zone to talk about everything. The joys, the worries and all the emotions in between. Whether it is a tough day or a big win, you will find understanding, validation and support from women who truly get it.
Lucy Wilson is present in the community throughout the programme, hosting sessions, answering questions and making sure every woman feels seen, supported and celebrated.
Founder and Guide
Lucy Wilson is the founder of MAIA and the driving force behind the Matrescence Empowerment Programme. Her passion comes from her own deeply personal experience navigating motherhood under difficult circumstances, which led her to build what she describes as a groundbreaking programme.
Lucy is an F:Entrepreneur with Small Business Britain 2026, one of the highest accolades for women in business in the UK. She is a SEND parent and a passionate advocate for women at every stage of life.
Throughout the MAIA programme Lucy shows up as your guide, your cheerleader and your community host. She is not just the founder. She is part of the journey.
The Specialists Behind MAIA
Every expert in the MAIA team is passionate about supporting new mothers and sharing their knowledge and experience. Together we have built something truly special.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you are an organisation that wants to retain its best female talent, or a mother who deserves to feel empowered through this incredible transition, MAIA is here for you.
Fully funded pilot 2026 • Limited places • Applications open nowWould Love to Hear From You
Have a question about MAIA, the team or how the programme works? We are happy to help.
Get in Touch