“People say my courageous, authentic and empathetic leadership inspires others by setting high performance standards while offering unwavering support, care and encouragement to help them succeed.” —Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington
Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community?
Honoring achievement matters because recognition tells people that their work, leadership and perseverance have value. In our business community, it also creates a culture where success is not measured only by what one person accomplishes, but by the opportunities that success creates for others.
When we celebrate women and leaders who are making a difference, we shine a light on what is possible and encourage the next generation to lead, innovate and serve. As a public servant and attorney, I have seen how recognition can build confidence, expand networks and open doors that may otherwise remain closed.
Honoring achievement also reminds businesses that diverse leadership strengthens our economy and our communities. By celebrating achievement, we are investing in a culture of opportunity, collaboration and shared success across Arizona.
What is the single most important thing you have learned throughout your career that would inspire others/other women?
The most important lesson I have learned is that you do not have to wait for permission to lead. Throughout my career, I have learned to trust my preparation, use my voice and remain grounded in the values that brought me to the table.
There will always be moments when you are the first, the only or the person others underestimate. Those moments are not reasons to shrink; they are opportunities to demonstrate what is possible.
I also believe that success is most meaningful when you bring others with you. I encourage women to build relationships, ask for the opportunity, take the seat and be willing to create a new table when one does not exist.
Your perspective matters, your experience matters and your leadership can change what comes next.
What do you think we can do – now – to make a difference for young people/women in Arizona?
We can make a difference now by ensuring that young people and women have access to opportunity, mentorship, education, housing and pathways to economic independence.
Talent exists in every Arizona community, but talent alone is not enough when barriers prevent people from reaching their potential. We need to connect young people to mentors, internships, career and technical education, entrepreneurship and leadership opportunities early.
For women, we must continue building pathways into industries and leadership roles where they have historically been underrepresented, while supporting woman-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. As leaders, we should also model service and make government and civic engagement accessible to the next generation.
Most importantly, we must listen to young people and women about the solutions they need. When we invest in their voice and potential today, we strengthen Arizona’s workforce, economy and civic future.
In Few Words
- What was the last course, certification or training you took to improve yourself professionally? Professionalism: The Calling, Leadership, and Answering When the Bough Breaks
- What would you say is a single characteristic OTHERS might attribute to you that defines your success? Determination
- What is the one thing you feel you could work on professionally to be a greater success? Delegation
- What is the one professional skill you have that has gotten you where you are today? Advocacy
- What is the single greatest issue facing Arizona today? Ensuring Arizona’s rapid growth creates affordable housing, economic opportunity and a high quality of life for everyone.
About Me
Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington represents Phoenix City Council District 8 and is the first African American woman elected to the Phoenix City Council. An attorney and policy leader with more than 20 years of legal, public- and private-sector experience, she brings a data-driven, community-centered approach to public service. As vice mayor, she focuses on housing affordability, economic opportunity, infrastructure, transportation and equitable growth. She has championed eviction legal services, the Housing Trust Fund, master leasing, flexible financial assistance and investments that strengthen neighborhoods. She serves as chair of the Community Services & Education Subcommittee and remains committed to creating pathways for residents, businesses and future leaders to thrive.
