SHE LEADS – with Gina
Title:
Cox Enterprises
Design & Construction Manager – Real Estate
What would you tell your younger self?
Keep dreaming, working hard and aiming big – and don’t listen when others do not believe in you.
What was your major in college and how did you get to the position you are in today?
My major is Architecture – graduated in Brazil. My career, for the past 20+ years, as an Interior Designer has developed after lots of practice, experience, studying and interest in the field.
What was your inspiration and what helped you become successful? How do you define success?
I define success when you are fulfilled with joy through your work (big or small); not just because you have achieved your goal, but because you have helped others develop, improve and accomplish a vision, dream or wish of something great.
How do you balance your work and personal life? Often times one has more importance, and we’re curious to know how you’ve handled the balance.
Personal life; with a certain balance and maturity; is always worthy of the first place. In my experience – half century and counting – Family always come first… But, one’s work life, mostly when you love what you do, is very inspiring and uplifting. So, I would say that it would be following right along.
What is your favorite quote?
Fernando Pessoa – “The value of things is not the time they last, but the intensity with which they occur. Thus, there are unforgettable moments, inexplicable things and incomparable people!”
What’s your favorite part of your job and why?
Being a designer, it gives me pleasure to provide ideas/suggestions and recommendations for a home or office space (sketch, plan and sometimes manage), and be able to deliver a comfortable environment with ambiance and an aesthetically pleasing vibe; and appease someone’s desire; which could be a client, a family member or a friend.
What is your favorite hobby?
Relax at the beach – but, who am I kidding right? In Atlanta, we are nowhere close to the shore. I enjoy riding my bicycle or walking at the Chattahoochee Nature Park trails, by my house. Read a suspense book, when I have time. And, last but not least work in my little bitty herbs garden.
What advice do you want to give the next generation of women leaders?
I am a mom – so, as I said to my hopefully soon to be a woman leader: Stand tall, but respectful and humble. Listen, before you speak. Strive to learn something new along the way, so you can stand strong in what you believe.
What does leadership mean to you?
Be a good human being example to others; modestly molding, teaching and leading the new generation.
What’s your advice on mentoring?
I have never mentored, but have been mentored. I am grateful for their patience, dignity, integrity and compassion. I think those qualities are a few good ones start with.
What’s your favorite ice cream?
Hummm – I grew up in Brazil, and this may sound strange; but, there is a ‘cream and guava’ mix flavor that I would not pass, even though that is not my favorite dessert.