An Inspiring Leader: Dr. Anna V. Eskamani

Anna V. Eskamani celebrated the Lunar New Year and Asian culture at the 2025 Dragon Parade in the Mills 50 district.

Dr. Anna V. Eskamani (D-42) believes in leading with grit and grace. Part of that is looking for opportunities for common ground whenever possible. “In the state legislature, I believe in building bridges when we can while never being afraid to hold anyone accountable when we must,” Eskamani says.

The Orlando native is the daughter of working-class immigrants who moved to the United States to create a better life for their children. She puts that same determination into fighting for Florida families daily.

“Our team has continued to work aggressively in helping everyday Floridians and small businesses navigate through what continue to be very challenging economic times,” says Eskamani. “This means leveraging our access to state agencies and local government to solve bureaucratic challenges while also working with the private sector to support those in need.”

She approaches policy with an anti-poverty lens and firmly believes that we all do better when we all do better.

“My most important concerns continue to revolve around economic issues—from the cost of housing and insurance to the need for more diverse jobs and educational attainment options,” says Eskamani. “Too many Floridians cannot afford Florida right now, and we need to invest in more housing options and support families who are trying to get back on their feet.”

To those who may be discouraged by the enormity of issues facing their communities, she offers a message of hope: that even small efforts can lead to significant changes.

“Volunteering for a few hours, attending local community meetings or simply being kind to a neighbor can create a ripple effect. Focus on what you can control; it’s easy to feel paralyzed by the bigger picture, so concentrate on the areas where you can make a direct impact. Identify local issues that resonate with you and start there. Finally, remember that you are not alone. Many people share your concerns and aspirations. By working together, pooling resources and supporting one another, we can achieve much more than any one person could.”

Mark and Josie NeJame, Representative Anna Eskamani, George Diaz and Debra Lowman at Orlando magazine’s 50 Most Powerful Reception in 2023.

Eskamani also has been a tireless advocate for public media, and has been honored with a 2025 Florida Public Media Champion Award. Watching shows on PBS, she told local affiliate WUCF TV, sparked her curiosity about the world around her, taught her the values of kindness and community and instilled an appreciation for fact-based storytelling. 

She hopes to make Orlando the focus of her energies in 2027 as its next mayor. Eskamani says the vibrant sense of community, diversity and resilience that defines the community is what makes her the most proud to be an Orlandoan.

“Orlando is a place where people from all walks of life come together, bringing their unique cultures, perspectives and talents to create a rich tapestry of experiences and problem solvers,” she says. “I’m proud of our city’s commitment to innovation and growth, whether it’s through our thriving tech industry, world-renowned hospitality and tourism sector or our dedication to sustainability and green initiatives.”

“Orlando is always looking forward, embracing change and striving to be a better place for everyone,” Eskamani adds. “We’re also a community that embraces diversity and we always shows up for each other in times of need. Whether it’s supporting local businesses, volunteering for community projects or simply looking out for one another, there’s a strong spirit of solidarity that transcends economic lines.”