Erica Echeverri

I attribute my success to not thinking I need to know everything to belong in the room. I've learned that confidence grows through experience, not necessarily just through profession. It's really important to speak up, ask questions, and trust the value that your perspective brings. I think we all see things differently, and that's valuable. I've also learned not to be afraid to seek out people who can support your growth and to look for mentorship and leadership elsewhere. The imposter syndrome feeling is really easy, especially when you're in a room full of really important and intelligent people, but I think that feeling of uncertainty doesn't mean you're unqualified - it just means you care, and I think that speaks volumes.

I would say passion is incredibly important. Networking is one of the biggest things - and I know that sounds cliche, but being a part of the space, finding like-minded people, finding community members, and engaging with individuals is critical. I joined Leadership Broward last year, which was 62 individuals from different walks of life and professions, but we all had something very similar - this managerial leadership quality and hope for the future. That networking is really critical to meet people like us and make a difference. I also think believing in ourselves is incredibly important. I know that sometimes women in STEM face challenges and difficulties, but having that passion is key. Don't think you need to know everything to belong in the room - confidence grows through experience. Speak up, ask questions, and trust that your perspective is valuable. Don't be afraid to seek out people who can support your growth and look for mentorship and leadership. The imposter syndrome feeling is really easy, but that feeling of uncertainty doesn't mean you're unqualified - it just means you care, and that speaks volumes.

Family first is really important to me. I'm really close to my mom and make it a habit to see her at least once a week. My brother lives about 10 minutes from us with his two kids, who are my godchildren, and I love them dearly. Service before ego is a core value - we center communities and people, not ourselves. The world doesn't revolve around us, and there are so many different walks of life and people. My mom used to take us to soup kitchens and volunteer with organizations, and I'm teaching my daughter that same value. Integrity and accountability are essential - just doing the right thing. The world is really heavy right now, no matter which side of the line you fall on. It's difficult to turn on the news and see nothing good coming out of it. So I think just being accountable and maintaining good ethics, even though we're human and some days are hard, is what matters most.