In honor of Women\u2019s History Month, 200 community leaders and Orange County employees gathered on March 28 at the county\u2019s new Multicultural Center to celebrate women\u2019s achievements, connect with peers, and discuss current issues impacting women.<\/p>\n
The forum was the brainchild of Mayor Jerry Demings, a trusted leader who recognizes the unique role women bring to the workforce and community. Under his watch, 76 percent of his managerial appointees have been women and minorities; and five females serve as elected County Commissioners.<\/p>\n
\u201cI want to take this opportunity to honor the women present here today for your leadership and the significant contributions you are making toward the advancement of women in all professional fields,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/newsroom.ocfl.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/032824-Mayor-Demings-Womens-History-Month-Forum-207-300x200.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
The highlight of this year\u2019s sisterhood included a spirited conversation with one of today\u2019s most sought-after speakers, the honorable Congresswoman Val Demings, or \u201cwonder woman\u201d as the mayor fondly calls his bride of 36 years.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s great to be home,\u201d said Demings, whose local legacy includes 27 years in law enforcement in Orlando.<\/p>\n
The beloved public servant shared personal hardships and victories as Orlando\u2019s first female Chief of Police, her unexpected path to Congress during an epochal moment in history, and her difficult loss in the U.S. Senate race in 2022. She spoke candidly about failure and the importance of getting back in the game after defeat.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou will never reach your full potential if you are not willing to take a risk. Sometimes when we look at obstacles in our way, those obstacles are not outside of us, those obstacles are inside of us,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cNever give up on you because if you don\u2019t give up on you, we won\u2019t give up on you. Believe in yourself. \u2026 You already have everything inside of you to be successful,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n
The spiritually motivated mother of three and grandmother of five reflected on her humble roots and the sacrifices her parents made which gave her countless opportunities to grow and shine. To balance a demanding professional and personal life, she said she never deviated from her mantra that family is the foundation for everything, and it\u2019s ok to ask for help. Family, faith, and a purpose-driven life have been her cornerstones.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you believe in something greater than you, that is the best backup you can have,\u201d she said. \u201cThere is no way I would be here spending this wonderful time with you today without God on my side.\u201d<\/p>\n