Author Donna Welch (third in line) stands with her husband, Mayor Ken Welch (first in line), family, and friends, holding her novel. All photos by Isis Climes
City of St. Petersburg’s First Lady, Donna Welch, has started a new chapter in her life as a debuting author with “Becoming Her – A Pocket of Hope.” Last Saturday, Welch hosted a book release gathering at Enoch Davis Center. The two-hour event featured light refreshments, poetry, and a photo op with the author.
Welch’s book is a collection of affirmations, mini messages, and selected reflections intended to “remind readers of their worth, strength, and the freedom to take up space in becoming.” Welch dedicates her book to her late aunt, Cecilia Denise Boykins, whose “life, love, and legacy” continue to inspire her.
“Through her words and example, she anchored me in a simple truth: you are enough…Her wisdom taught me to value my worth, stand confidently in my identity, and walk boldly in who I was created to be,“ said Welch.
“Becoming Her – A Pocket of Hope” by Donna Welch
Welch explained that her “becoming” is a call to servitude in the ways that she shows up for others. Welch grew up in a religious background, attending church six days a week. She cited her call to service as stemming from the combined teachings of her matriarchal leaders, such as her aunt and grandmothers, and from her religious upbringing.
“Becoming is not a destination. It is a process. We become because of the people we serve,” explained Welch.
Before her title as mayoress, Welch was – and continues to be – a source of strength and support to her community. Taught to serve and act as a helping hand, Welch has actively changed lives through her community service and leadership in the St. Petersburg area.
In attendance were Arnisha Whitman and Andrea White, two individuals who have personally felt the grace and influence of Welch’s support.
Whitman met Welch in 2010; from graduating from high school to the birth of her daughter, Whitman stated that Welch remained a prominent figure in her life. Whitman described Welch as “an example of grace” that showed her anything was possible with “God, love, and hope.” She thanked Welch for being a pillar, not just in the community but in her life.
“If I had to describe Ms. Donna, I would say she’s the one person who shows up for the good and the bad. No matter what you’re going through, she doesn’t pass judgment,” said Whitman.
White met Welch at the Children’s Home Network caregiver group. Welch initially reached out to White over email to offer assistance, but White was wary of the support. Through her persistence, Welch showed White her intentions were genuine and helped White in her time of need.
“To be able to have a person to talk to about any problem, to understand and embrace you without judgment, makes it a little easier to deal with any situation that life throws at you. I’m grateful, and I appreciate having her in my life,” said White.
Donna Welch poses with family and friends at her book release
Welch has always kept her hand outstretched to those in need; in 2008, she founded My Daughter’s Keeper, a nonprofit dedicated to “educating, empowering, and inspiring young girls, women, and youth in rising above life challenges and finding their greater purpose,” and currently sits as the organization’s president.
Raised in a village of aunts and uncles who poured love and support into her, Welch vows to be that somebody for those who may not have communal support.
“For me, this was never about titles or recognition. It was about service, responsibility, and purpose, because purpose is not about recognition; it is about impact. The question then becomes, as you continue becoming, what will you leave behind?” Welch asked the audience.
Advocate, servant leader, and now published author, Welch continues to be a mentor to young girls and the women in her community.
“‘Becoming Her – A Pocketful of Hope’ was behind all the women, all the young girls, all the mothers, all the phone calls. What can I give back to them that I have? I had a notice,” said Welch.
Interested readers can grab a copy of her book on her website.
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