UNSCRIPTED: Rohli Booker
Unscripted By Keith Edmonds
FWIS Contributing Writer
Rohli Booker is a dedicated mother of three and an active participant in our local community. Serving as City Councilmember for the 6th District, she also works at Vincent House, (a transitional shelter) and established Aza Image Beauty (which she recently closed). During our meeting, I found her direct approach and unwavering commitment to her numerous responsibilities refreshing and forthright. It is my privilege to introduce Ms. Rohli Booker in this edition of UNSCRIPTED.
UNSCRIPTED: Welcome to Unscripted today! To get things started, can you give us a little background on yourself?
MS. BOOKER: "Thank you for the opportunity to share with your readers. I was born in Indianapolis and raised in Fort Wayne, which may be news for some. I was raised here after my mother adopted me from an adoption agency in Indianapolis. I graduated from Southside High School and though I didn’t participate in sports, I was involved in various student organizations. After graduation, I attended Ball State University where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology, with minors in Chemistry, and French. The plan was to become a pediatrician but my path lead me in another direction. God had something else planned for me.”
UNSCRIPTED: I have to ask. How did you get involved in the school system and become a part of FWCS School Board?
MS. BOOKER: “Many people didn’t know me because I had moved away from Fort Wayne and spent most of my adult life in Indianapolis. During my tenure on the school board, I recall being asked about my background and connection to Fort Wayne; however, when I came back, I focused on my sons and starting a new business. In March of 2020, (after the unfortunate passing of Jordan Lebamoff), people who knew me encouraged me to apply for their position, as they were familiar with my involvement in schools. I regularly volunteered, engaged with staff, and made sure I was engaged in my children’s education—(even using Google Translate at the bus stop to communicate with other parents to help them advocate for their children). I have a calming demeanor, but I’ve never been afraid to speak up when needed.”
UNSCRIPTED: Can you share with us what it was like to come into this position as 6th District Councilwomen replacing our current mayor and the looming shadow of former councilman Glynn Hines?
MS. BOOKER: "Following the announcement of the Caucus results, I was immediately asked about succeeding Mayor Sharon Tucker. Assuming a seat previously held by her and for decades by former Councilman Hines carries a great amount of responsibility. I am grateful for the solid foundation they have established for ongoing progress in southeast Fort Wayne's 6th district that allows me to ensure that the city continues to invest in the implementation of the Southeast Strategy. This plan identifies ways to invest in the development of my community by identifying specific initiatives to encourage community and economic development. I appreciate being able to seek guidance from both, particularly Councilman Hines, who has been consistently available to discuss any matters that arise. While I am mindful not to rely heavily on Mayor Tucker given her broader duties as Mayor of Fort Wayne, I value the support and resources Councilman Hines provides. I would also like to share that many supported me as I began to inquire about this position, and I received overwhelming support from my small circle of trust group which was huge for me in my decision-making!”
UNSCRIPTED: What was it like earning trust from your constituents and the community as a whole in your pursuit of this position?
MS. BOOKER: "I'm still earning people's trust. Many were familiar with Councilman Hines because of his long tenure, not necessarily their involvement in local politics. I'm continuing to build acceptance among those engaged in the community and educating and encouraging newcomers to advocate for themselves So far, things are going well, and I expect that things will only get better!”
UNSCRIPTED: How did your previous positions prepare you for the position that you now hold here in our city?
MS. BOOKER: “I've always valued engaging, listening, and debating with people. My career involvement with my sorority (Zeta Phi Beta) and community work have all prepared me for this position.
UNSCRIPTED: To bring this to a close what are 3 things that make you: Smile, Think, Emotional:
MS. BOOKER:
SMILE: “Hearing people laugh makes me smile!”
THINK: “Hmmm... I think about the future of the 6th District. I think about the community’s vision for what they want and my role in making that happen.”
EMOTIONAL: “I’m not a very emotional person but talking and interacting with my elders makes me emotional. It fills my heart. I’ve always loved hearing their stories and sitting at their feet to gain knowledge and learn from their wisdom Those experiences are priceless to me.”