We were lucky to catch up with Nancy Metayer Bowen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Nancy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

The decision to enter local politics was a significant risk. In the City of Coral Springs, I ran for Mayor and later Commissioner, competing against multiple established candidates with significant name recognition. As the first Black woman and Haitian-American, the challenges were evident. Despite the odds, I remained true to my core values and community-centric vision.

Through hard work and unwavering dedication, I was elected Commissioner in 2020. This victory marked not only a personal milestone but a groundbreaking win for the community. Staying authentic and resolute amidst challenges proved to be the key to success.

Nancy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Nancy Metayer Bowen, honored to serve as the first Black and Haitian-American woman Commissioner in Coral Springs. My journey in public service began at Coral Springs Charter School, cultivating a dedication to community leadership. Prior to my current role, I spearheaded the Florida Disaster Preparedness Plan (FDPP), advocating for community resilience post-disasters.

As an Environmental Scientist, I’ve advocated for environmental improvements and public health, addressing water crises and responding to natural disasters such as Hurricane Irma, Michael, and Dorian. My commitment to sustainability and resilience drives initiatives in Coral Springs, aiming to combat climate change and foster small business growth.

I champion equitable clean energy policies. Education-wise, I hold a Bachelor of Science from Florida A&M University and a Master of Health Science from Johns Hopkins University. I am actively involved in various community boards and organizations, striving to make a difference.

My proudest moments include being recognized by the Haitian-American Chamber of Commerce and the United Nations for my work in clean water advocacy. I am dedicated to amplifying community voices and contributing to a better future for Coral Springs.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

My reputation within the market has been shaped by several fundamental factors that have contributed to its development and strength. First and foremost, my commitment to authenticity and unwavering dedication to the causes I champion has played a pivotal role. Being authentic in my approach to community service, advocating for environmental causes, and striving for equitable policies has resonated with both constituents and stakeholders.

Moreover, my relentless focus on delivering tangible results has been a cornerstone of my reputation. Whether it’s spearheading initiatives or advocating for change, my actions have consistently aligned with my words, earning trust and respect within the market. Additionally, my background in environmental science and public health has provided a solid foundation, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the causes I’m passionate about.

Networking and collaboration have also been key elements in building my reputation. By working closely with various government agencies, nonprofits, and community groups, I’ve forged strong relationships, enabling me to amplify my impact and extend the reach of my initiatives.

Furthermore, recognition and awards have not only validated my efforts but have also enhanced credibility in the eyes of the community. Being honored by esteemed organizations, such as the Haitian-American Chamber of Commerce and the United Nations, has added weight to my advocacy work, solidifying my position as a trustworthy and effective leader in my field.

Overall, the combination of authenticity, dedication, tangible results, expertise in my field, strategic collaborations, and external recognition has collectively contributed to the development and sustenance of my reputation within the market. These elements continue to guide my actions and decisions, reinforcing my commitment to effecting meaningful and positive change within my community.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

During the first recession, I encountered a pivotal moment that demanded a significant shift in my career trajectory. At that time, the economic downturn presented challenges, making it incredibly difficult to secure a stable job in my desired field. It became evident that in order to be competitive and gain the necessary skills, I had to adapt and pivot in my approach.

Confronted with this reality, I took on odd jobs while interning for free. These odd jobs were a means to sustain myself while I pursued the skill sets crucial for establishing a foothold in my industry. It was a period marked by persistence, where I dedicated my time to learning and skill-building, even if it meant taking on unconventional work to make ends meet.

Subsequently, an opportunity presented itself, albeit in an unexpected form. I took on the role of a substitute teacher while continuing to work part-time, a path that led me towards breaking into my desired field. While the teaching role was a deviation from my initial career aspirations, it allowed me the stability to continue building the skills and knowledge required to transition into my industry.

This period of pivoting was a challenging yet transformative experience. It taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of seizing opportunities that might not align perfectly with my initial plans. The diverse experiences I gained during this pivot not only equipped me with a broad skill set but also instilled in me the determination to persevere through challenging times and make the most of unexpected opportunities that arise. Ultimately, this pivot laid the foundation for my success in entering and thriving in my chosen field.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.metayerbowen.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nancymetayerbowen/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyMetayer/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancymetayerofficial/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/NMetayerBowen