Women's History Month: Fort Myers councilwoman says she leads by faith
March is Women’s History Month – a time to recognize the many achievements women have made throughout the course of American history in a variety of ways.
There are countless influential women throughout Southwest Florida making a difference in their community. In this Q&A series, we highlight five of them who are making strides in their respective fields, one each weekday this week.
Teresa Watkins Brown
Watkins Brown, 66, has been a Fort Myers councilwoman for 14 years. A native of Fort Myers, she graduated from Cypress Lake High School and earned a bachelor's and master's degrees from Barry University. She retired from her career in telecommunications in 2010, with 35 years of service.
Q. What do you like most about what you do?
Watkins Brown: I love working with people and assisting in creating better communities for the area that I serve.
Q. Is there a woman throughout history who inspires you? Why?
Watkins Brown: My mother. She was a strong woman of faith who loved all of her children. She worked hard to provide for us. She disciplined us when necessary and encouraged us to achieve our best. We grew up in a home of love and respect for each other and others. She was a woman of virtue who taught me how to be the woman that I am now.
Q. What advice do you have for a young woman interested in working in your industry?
Watkins Brown: To learn their role in whatever government career they will pursue. To do it for the people. Upholding their integrity and doing what is just and right even when you are standing alone.
Q. How do you handle adversity?
Watkins Brown: I pray. I allow my faith in God to be my guide on whatever challenges I am facing in life.
Q. What is your favorite restaurant in Southwest Florida? Why?
Watkins Brown: I love so many restaurants. Bonefish Grill. I love the food and atmosphere.
Q. If you could give your younger self any advice what would it be?
Watkins Brown: I would tell my younger self not to be hard on yourself. To never be afraid of trying to do new things. To be Forgiving of yourself when you fail and make a mistake. That trusting God and obeying him truly is the key to abundant life and joy. That nothing in life is more rewarding than spending time with family and friends.
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Women's History Month: Highlighting Councilwoman Teresa Watkins Brown
