WOMEN OF IMPACT
ORANGE COUNTY’S LEADING WOMEN PROFESSIONALS
Nimisha K. Parekh, MD, MPH
NIMISHA K. PAREKH, MD, MPH
DIRECTOR | UCI Health Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program
PROFESSOR AND ASSOCIATE DEAN | Faculty Development, UC Irvine School of Medicine
MEDICAL EDUCATION DIRECTOR | Mussallem Nutrition Education Center, Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute
Throughout her career as a clinician, educator, researcher, and academic medical center leader, Dr. Nimisha Parekh has been committed to enriching the lives of her patients, colleagues and community.
A board-certified gastroenterologist, Parekh directs the UCI Health Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Program. With her extensive experience treating ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, the program has built a national reputation for excellence in caring for patients with these complex disorders.
Under her leadership, the IBD team — part of the prestigious UCI Health Chao Digestive Health Institute — is renowned for its multidisciplinary clinical care and integrated approach. Her clinical research focuses on new drug therapies for IBD, the role of ethnicity in treatment outcomes and women’s health.
Parekh’s lifelong dedication to learning drives her to stay abreast of research advances to ensure her patients benefit
from the latest treatments. Since 2012, the Orange County Medical Association has consistently named her a Physician of Excellence.
But caring for patients and staying at the forefront of IBD treatment is only part of what drives her.
As associate dean for faculty development at the UC Irvine School of Medicine, Parekh has channeled her passion for education and empowerment into the creation of leadership initiatives and mentoring programs for faculty members to advance their careers.
A special labor of love is the Summer Healthcare Experience, a career pathway program she founded for high school students. Since 2014, more than 350 students have engaged with doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals in a week-long program to see first-hand the many fulfilling job opportunities. More than 75% of program graduates are pursuing healthcare careers.
“Enhancing the lives of others has been the mission of my life and career as a physician, educator and mentor,” Parekh explained.
The Scrubs & Heels Foundation recently named her its 2025 Break the Glass Ceiling Award winner in recognition of her work with students and faculty, as well as her advocacy to improve equity for women in gastroenterology and medicine.
“As a physician, I wear many hats, giving patients not just my expertise, but also my empathy and advocacy as they navigate the challenges of their illness,” says Parekh, who is gratified when she sees her students, trainees and peers embody these same caring qualities.
“I strive to be an inspiration to young people, to encourage them to believe in themselves, and to value a career of service that makes a positive impact on the lives of individuals and their communities.”
UCI Health — Irvine 19200 Jamboree Road Irvine, CA 92612
ucihealth.org/irvinehospital
THE WOMEN OF PRESTIGE MEDICAL GROUP
FROM LEFT: AMANDA ALLEN, PA-C, KATIE BOYD CORDOVA, PA-C, LAMIA GABAL, MD, FPMRS, JILL BYERS, MD, FPMRS, DEVIN STETSON, PA-C
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
Our female-led practice specializes in urology and sexual medicine, an area where there is a significant gap in the number of female providers. Dr. Gabal, Dr. Byers and our PAs are all passionate about providing our patients— whether male or female—with the extra personalized care they need in this important yet often underrecognized field of medicine.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
At our practice, we routinely mentor women from high school, college, medical school, and beyond, with young women coming in to shadow and volunteer. We believe it’s important for them to have role models who are breaking barriers in this field of medicine. We all wish we had female mentors who could have shown us the way when we were training!
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Our goal is to normalize the discussion around urological and sexual medicine issues. These topics have traditionally been taboo, but they are crucial to our well-being and quality of life. Women, in particular, have often been taught not to speak about these concerns. Our legacy is to lead the way in breaking these barriers, empowering others to live longer, more fulfilling lives.
Both Dr. Lamia Gabal and Dr. Jill Byers are double board-certified by the American Board of Urology (ABU) and have been recognized by the ABU and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) as Board Certified Specialists in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. This means that they are equally as capable in treating men and women for their urologic and sexual health issues. Our Physician Assistants are hand picked to be able to deliver the same level of quality care to our patients. We pride ourselves on being able to offer the latest technology and treatments in regenerative medicine, as well. We love nothing more than being able to help people with their most intimate issues, making you comfortable to talk to us about any and every one of these very sensitive concerns. Together, we have over 50 years of experience and expertise in this field. We are routinely able to help people where other doctors have not!
18302 Irvine Boulevard, Suite 200, Tustin, CA 92780
949-387-0411
prestigemedigroup.com
JENNIFER KIM
MANAGING SENIOR PARTNER
SIGNATURE ESTATE AND INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
I was always fascinated with making money grow as a child and started looking at the stock market at an early age. It was always so fun watching money grow and sharing this information with those around me. I enjoyed planning for the future and trying to figure out all the different strategies to come up with plans. My passion was learning about the financial world and how it relates to tax planning as well as legal planning and trying to solve each person’s situation.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
Women need to know that the world is in their hands and that they can make their own choices and control their own finances. We are in an era where we can make more money than men and make investment decisions without having to rely solely on a male partner.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I believe setting a good example for younger generations through life lessons learned, values, and beliefs—and teaching how to set high goals—would be the legacy I would like to leave behind. I always enjoy guiding younger adults in having dreams and trying to turn them into realities by establishing goals that can be measured in small steps and in the right direction.
NAZ HAQUE, DDS
DENTIST | MARKET PLACE DENTISTRY
The ability to alleviate pain and help someone smile is a privilege. Growing up in Orange County, I was always energized by the kindness and support of the diverse community around me. After attending UCLA, I went to NYU School of Dentistry and completed my residency at LAC+USC. Serving Orange County for the past 20 years, I take pride in being at the forefront of dental technology and advanced dental care. At Market Place Dentistry, we help restore function and transform people’s lives through smile transformations.
During the pandemic, there was tremendous suffering. I had the opportunity to help the community and opened a vaccination site in The Market Place with the generosity of The Irvine Company. It started with a simple vision to alleviate the OC community’s suffering and help increase access to preventive care. Amazingly, we were able to provide free vaccinations to over 40,000 people with the help of hundreds of volunteers and
staff. Thankfully, we emerged as a stronger and more vibrant community.
The opportunities and encouragement I have received growing up were not available to the previous generations of women in my family. As the daughter of immigrant parents, I have learned tenacity and resilience. As a woman, I have learned to adapt to many roles and work endlessly. As a mother of three boys, I have learned compromise and compassion. I have had the freedom to dream. Hope can change lives and build communities. Supporting my community and building relationships has given me immense joy. The journey continues to be rich, powerful, and inspiring. It motivates me to learn, stay engaged and continue to serve my community.
2925 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92782
714-505-0123 | mp.dental
GHADA Y. AFIFI, MD, FACS
CEO AND MEDICAL DIRECTOR
AFIFI MD PLASTIC SURGERY AND MEDSPA
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
When I was 12, I watched a plastic surgery documentary about surgeons who went abroad to third-world countries to operate on children with birth defects, such as cleft lip and palate. I recall staring at the television screen and watching the grateful hugs of the parents as they saw their previously deformed children transformed after only a few hours into their newly reconstructed selves. The psychological and societal impact of plastic surgery amazed me, and my life’s dream began.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
My goal is to educate, empower, and empathize with patients to help them feel confident about themselves and not feel any need to conform to societal expectations of beauty—or anything else in that manner. Studies have shown that if you look good, you feel good, you do good. But the definition of what “looks good” is critical. My own definition is a combination of my artistic sense and the patient’s personal goals. On a side note, my high school art teacher was incredibly disappointed when I told her I wanted to be a plastic surgeon and not an artist. I tried to explain that my artistic expression would find itself within my patients’ transformations—it would be a “living art.”
My goal for each of my patients is to present options— sometimes options they may not have previously thought of—with pros and cons so that they are enabled to make the best decision for themselves: to be the best version of themselves, inside and out.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
The legacy I hope to leave behind will always first be my son, whom I hope becomes a strong man of excellent character, honor, and charity. This would be followed by having patients remember me as one who truly cared about how they felt and who enabled them to be the best versions of themselves through excellent artistic care, empathy, and integrity.
1101 Dove Street, Suite 130 , Newport Beach, CA 92660
949-767-7444
AJ OLSON WHITFIELD
BROKER ASSOCIATE
PACIFIC SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL
A distinguished force in Orange County’s luxury real estate market, AJ Olson Whitfield has built an impressive career with over $250 million in sales. Beyond her remarkable track record, AJ sets herself apart with extensive hands-on construction experience, offering her clients a distinct advantage in both buying and selling. Since launching her career in 2009, she has earned a reputation for unparalleled client service, deep market insight, and a best-in-class network—consistently delivering exceptional results.
AJ’s expertise extends beyond traditional real estate. She has played an integral role in multiple new construction projects alongside her husband. This firsthand involvement provides her with invaluable knowledge of planning, building, and design—insights she leverages to help clients maximize property value. Whether advising on strategic renovations or offering design recommendations to enhance a home’s appeal, AJ’s keen eye and construction acumen empower clients to make informed decisions with confidence.
Rooted in the community, AJ resides in Eastside Costa Mesa and is an active member of Newport Harbor Yacht Club and Big Canyon Country Club. Her passion for real estate, combined with her hands-on construction expertise, makes her an invaluable resource and trusted advisor in Orange County’s competitive market. With a commitment to excellence, AJ Olson Whitfield continues to redefine what it means to provide full-service luxury real estate representation.
1200 Newport Center Drive, Suite 100
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949-433-8989
ajolsonwhitfield.com
CANDICE SILVER
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL | PRESIDENT
SILVER REAL ESTATE REALTY OC, INC.
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
My caring and commitment to my clients and their families motivate me to do whatever it takes to help them realize their dreams. My clients’ trust in me fuels me to never stop until they are 100% satisfied with my services. This deep commitment to service and my clients’ success has honored my being recognized by Orange Coast magazine as a top producing real estate professional in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024; with an annual sales volume in the top 1% of all agents in the County. Other accolades include being named one of Orange County’s Top 35 Power Women in both 2022 & 2023, as well as holding the title of Top 10 Agents in the State of California in 2023 for outstanding client service and satisfaction by the American Institute of Real Estate Professionals.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I strive to spend some of my time to not only mentor new female agents in real estate, but also devote my time to various philanthropy efforts as well. My mother actually played a vital role in my career path. Having been in the real estate business for 30 years, her valuable teachings lay the groundwork for my success today. I hope to be able to pass along that same guidance that was so graciously granted to me.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
In addition to my career, I focus on my beautiful husband and two children. While I am not working and spending time with my family, I focus heavily on my partnership with the City of Hope in helping raise money and contributing to philanthropy efforts in clinical trials to cure cancer. I work closely with this amazing organization, which is near and dear to my heart. I also hold a special place rescuing animals. I work closely with animal rescues and have fostered and rescued my two amazing puppies, Ramy and Hope.
I hope the legacy I leave behind will make a difference in proving that one should never settle spending your life doing something unfulfilling. If you are fulfilled in your career and life endeavors, as I have been so blessed to be, you will never have to “work” a day in your life and your legacy will naturally pave its own way.
KATAYUN SAADAI, MD
COMPREHENSIVE PULMONARY & PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIANS
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
Growing up in a large, close-knit family with two professional sisters—one in pharmacy—instilled in me a strong sense of determination and compassion. My parents valued education and hard work, encouraging me to pursue medicine. However, my grandmother’s healthcare struggles truly inspired me to become a doctor. Watching her navigate the medical system, I realized the importance of empathetic and personalized care. I wanted to make a difference—to be a source of comfort and healing.
Now, as a physician at Comprehensive Pulmonary & Primary Care Physicians, I am grateful to be living my dream, making a difference in patients’ lives, and inspiring the next generation of women in medicine.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
As a female physician, I strive to inspire and empower women globally to pursue careers in medicine, especially in regions where women face restrictions in accessing healthcare from male physicians. I envision a future where women have equal opportunities to become healthcare providers, leaders, and changemakers. Through my planned podcast, I aim to:
• Raise awareness about the importance of women’s participation in medicine.
• Support education and training initiatives for women in healthcare.
• Inspire women to pursue their dreams in the medical field.
By empowering women in medicine, I believe we can improve healthcare outcomes and create a more inclusive and compassionate system.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I hope to leave a legacy of compassion and excellence in healthcare. As a physician, my goal is to provide empathetic and personalized care to every patient, ensuring they feel heard and valued. I aspire to be a role model for future generations of medical professionals, demonstrating that with determination and passion, they can overcome any barriers and make a meaningful impact in the world of medicine.
714-361-6600
cppcorange.com
REGAN DEAN PHILLIPS
CEO
COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES OF ORANGE COUNTY
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
My passion for children’s rights advocacy stems from deep gratitude for my own upbringing and a commitment to helping those without the same opportunities. Inspired by my late mother, Susan Dean, who dedicated her life to serving others, I believe every child deserves the chance to thrive. At CASA, we know that every child needs a champion—someone to advocate for their well-being, support, and success. I have witnessed firsthand how CASA’s work transforms the lives of children in foster care, and these lifechanging outcomes fuel my dedication, even on the toughest days.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I hope to inspire the next generation of women to recognize that while we are capable of achieving incredible things, we don’t have to do it all alone—or all at once. True empowerment comes from understanding that seeking support isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength. Whether it’s leaning on a partner, friends, mentors, or colleagues, success is built through community and connection. My hope is that younger generations of women will embrace the power of collaboration and the courage to ask for and accept help. By doing so, they’ll be better equipped to achieve their dreams—without the unnecessary burden of carrying everything on their own.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I hope to leave a legacy built on compassion, empowerment, and community. Through my work in children’s rights advocacy and leadership, I strive to create a world where both children and women are supported, valued, and given the resources they need to thrive. My mission is to help remove barriers that children shouldn’t have to face and to contribute to a more just and equitable future. Above all, I want to empower women—including my daughter—to pursue their dreams with resilience, confidence, and an unwavering belief in the strength of community. Because when we lift each other up, we create lasting change for generations to come.
SOUTH COAST FERTILITY SPECIALISTS
REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY AND INFERTILITY PHYSICIANS
FROM LEFT: FANGYIN MENG, MD, BANA KASHANI, MD, NIDHEE SACHDEV, MD
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
The ability to help people in a way that changes their lives forever. Fertility is both medically complex and emotionally challenging. To be able to help patients navigate this difficult time in their lives is a privilege. Being mothers ourselves, family is the most important thing to all of us, and the opportunity to help patients build theirs is so rewarding.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
By showing them that women have the ability to do it all. We three are all wives, mothers, doctors, business owners, and entrepreneurs! We divide and conquer, lean on each other for
support, and still make sure we show up for our families and patients. With the right colleagues and mindset, women have the ability to accomplish every goal they set for themselves.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
A fertility practice where every patient receives personalized treatment, feeling like they are family. We want to be known for the excellent care we, as physicians, and our team provide— extending beyond statistics and outcomes to one that creates the best healthcare experience patients could ask for.
24541 Pacific Park Drive, Suite 109, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
KIMIA VAKILI
REALTOR | FOUNDER & CEO
THE VAKILI GROUP
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
I’ve always had a passion for entrepreneurship and knew from a young age that I wanted to build something of my own. Growing up, I was immersed in luxury home remodeling, with a family deeply rooted in real estate development and design. From an early age, I witnessed the transformation of spaces and the impact of thoughtful design, which sparked my love for the industry. Beyond that, I’ve always been drawn to connecting with people, guiding them through important decisions, and being the best advisor possible. Whether it’s helping clients find their dream home or maximizing their investment potential, I take pride in providing expert guidance and making a lasting impact.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
As a woman under 30 who has risen to the top 1% in real estate on a local, national, and global scale, I want to show the next generation that success isn’t defined by age—it’s fueled by passion, drive, and the courage to carve your own path. My advice to young women is to choose a career that allows you to embody your passions and creativity every day. When you align your work with what truly excites you, success becomes inevitable. I hope to inspire others to break barriers, trust their vision, and know that with relentless dedication, anything is possible.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I want to leave behind a legacy of inspiration, empowerment, and excellence. My goal is to show that success isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s about elevating others along the way. I hope to inspire the next generation, especially women, to pursue their ambitions fearlessly, knowing that passion and persistence outweigh age or circumstance. Beyond business, I want to be remembered for the impact I made—helping people build wealth through real estate, creating meaningful connections, and proving that you can design a career and life that align with your passions. My legacy will be one of breaking barriers, setting new standards, and leaving a lasting influence on the industry and those who follow.
840 Newport Center Drive, Suite 100
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949-812-8913 | kimiavakili.com
RENEE BODIE
GENERAL MANAGER
SOKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
Live music has an undeniable power—it transforms, uplifts, and transcends the everyday experience. This transformative quality inspired me to dedicate my life to the performing arts. Music has the ability to heal, inspire, and connect in ways words alone cannot. I’ve watched an audience hold its collective breath in a moment of sheer musical beauty, witnessed the unspoken connection between a performer and a listener, and felt the energy of a room shift as a single note breaks through silence. Being part of that transformative process—helping to bring those experiences to life Is what I am passionate about.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
My hope is that the next generation of women feels empowered to trust their instincts, take bold steps, and own their ambitions unapologetically. The world needs more women in leadership, the arts, and innovation—women who bring their full selves to their work and change the landscape by leading with passion and authenticity. True success is not measured by titles or salaries but by the happiness, fulfillment, and energy your work brings to you and those around you. My advice: Follow what sets your soul on fire. Trust your passion—that’s where your magic lies.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Through my work in the performing arts, I hope to leave a legacy of connection, empowerment, and transformation. If I have played even a small role in shaping a world where people feel more seen, heard, and enriched because of the arts, then I will know my life’s work has been worthwhile. Beyond the music, I strive to encourage others to pursue their passions, create with purpose, and believe in the power of art to change lives. I want to be remembered not just for what I’ve done, but for how I’ve done it—with heart, integrity, and impact.
1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
949-480-4821 | soka.edu/pac
MARYAM AMIRI
PRINCIPAL AGENT REDFIN
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
My journey into real estate began with a challenging and negative personal experience when I bought my first home. Determined to ensure others wouldn’t face similar situations, I entered the industry 18 years ago to be an honest advocate—dedicated to providing exceptional service and turning my clients’ dreams into reality.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I strive to inspire the next generation of women by leading with honesty, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. In a field where trust and integrity are paramount, I aim to demonstrate that through hard work and genuine care for clients, women can excel and make a significant impact. By mentoring and sharing my experiences, I hope to empower others to break barriers, pursue their passions fearlessly, and create lasting change in any field they choose.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
My legacy is rooted in the belief that intentional actions create predictable results. I aspire to leave behind a reputation built on trust, integrity, and unwavering dedication to my clients’ best interests. Whether helping families find their dream homes or navigating complex transactions with transparency, I hope to be remembered as someone who made a positive difference in people’s lives and set a standard of excellence in real estate.
163 Technology Drive, Suite 150
Irvine, CA 92618
714-675-4224
redfin.com/agent/maryam-amiri
CHRIS COLLETT
DIRECTOR OF CLUB OPERATIONS
RENAISSANCE CLUBSPORT ALISO VIEJO
LAGUNA BEACH
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
Fitness and sports have been integral parts of my life for as long as I can remember. From a young age, my parents instilled in me the values of discipline, resilience, and hard work—lessons that shaped not only my approach to sports but also my approach to life. This early passion led me to play Division 1 volleyball at California Polytechnic State University on a full-ride athletic scholarship.
My love for fitness and wellness evolved into a dynamic career spanning leadership roles in luxury health clubs, boutique studios, and corporate wellness programs, including at Google. For over a decade, I’ve been at the heart of Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo, helping to cultivate a community where health and fitness are more than just goals—they’re a lifestyle.
As the Director of Club Operations at Renaissance ClubSport, I am committed to creating a space where people feel empowered to prioritize their well-being and make fitness an enjoyable and sustainable part of their lives.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I believe that when women lift each other up, we create limitless opportunities. Throughout my career, I’ve mentored and developed strong female leaders in the fitness industry, emphasizing confidence, resilience, and the importance of staying true to one’s values. My goal is to continue breaking barriers and showing women that they can lead with strength and compassion in any industry they choose. Through mentorship and leading by example, I want to demonstrate that dedication and self-belief can open doors they never thought possible.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I strive to leave a legacy of kindness, service, and community. I want to be remembered not just for the clubs I helped build, but for the people I impacted along the way. If people say that I made them laugh, supported them when they needed it most, and helped them grow—whether as a member, a colleague, or a friend— then I’ll know I’ve lived a meaningful life. Renaissance ClubSport has become my home, and I hope it continues to be a place where people feel connected, inspired, and empowered to live their best lives.
50 Enterprise, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 949-643-6700 | clubsports.com
CARLA RHEA
PHOTOGRAPHER
CARLA RHEA PHOTOGRAPHER
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
While pursuing my bachelor’s degree, my professor recognized a unique gift I had — the ability to truly see light in a way few others could. It wasn’t long before people began offering to pay me to capture images, and that’s when I realized I could turn my passion into a career.
When I look through my camera, my aim is always to see my clients as God sees them, capturing their essence in the most authentic and beautiful way. I love highlighting the individual characteristics that make each person uniquely special.
For me, photography is not just about taking pictures — it’s about creativity and showcasing people in the best light possible.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
“The vision passed down to me from my mother has always been centered around serving others and treating people with kindness and respect. Building strong relationships has been the foundation of my business, and it has been the key to keeping clients coming back. As a result, referrals continue to flow, ensuring a bright future for the business.” I hope that the next generation of women can glean something from what has worked for me.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I have faced many obstacles and barriers, but none greater than what my mother experienced as a single parent coming to America from Costa Rica. Pregnant with me and my twin, she moved from New York to California alone, determined to give us a better life. Through it all, she remained steadfast and taught me one invaluable lesson: “Never make an excuse for yourself because you’re Black or a woman… YOU are an American.” This has helped me stay rooted in my dreams and make huge sacrifices, even when things seemed uncertain, in pursuit of my American dream.
Today, I am proud to say that my mother’s dream of coming to America has been fulfilled through me, and it will continue through my daughter.
360 East First Street, Suite 507, Tustin, CA 92780 714-273-6292 | carlarheaphoto.com
KATHY HAO
ATTORNEY/OWNER, FOUNDER
TCW GLOBAL LEGAL GROUP
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
As an immigrant myself, I love to help and educate people. As a first-generation immigrant, I know how hard it is to survive and thrive in a new country without the language, knowledge of the law, or access to resources.
I also understand that many people are frustrated by not knowing where to start. I have always hoped to provide the knowledge, experience, compassion, and professional service to those who will benefit not only from my legal services but also from my experience and knowledge of navigating the system efficiently and economically.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
As an attorney, I hope to inspire the next generation of women with my personal experience and journey, showing them that “you can do anything if you have the education and drive. The sky is the limit.” As a businesswoman, I want to tell them that they can dream big and achieve their dreams if they work hard enough and stay focused on their goals. We are not defined by history or society; we are defined by ourselves, by our own dreams, and by our own actions.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
As women, we need to have our own goals and focus on ourselves. Only when we take care of ourselves can we take care of others and the world we care about.
As mothers, we want to set a good example for our daughters and for the next generation of professionals, businesswomen, and leaders. We can overcome difficulties and challenges and steer our own lives.
490 South Fair Oaks Avenue Pasadena, CA 91105
818-518-4557
tcwlaws.com
AMBER D. ESPOSITO
FOUNDER
& PRINCIPAL ATTORNEY | ESPOSITO LAW PC
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
I became a personal injury lawyer, so that I could represent accident victims. I like to advocate for people who do not know how to do it for themselves. I am passionate about representing individuals against goliath insurance companies and corporate entities.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I hope to empower the next generation of women by telling them that they can do it, too. Female lawyers in the personal injury space are still outnumbered by men, but you can build something for yourself, even in a field dominated by men. The key is giving yourself permission—because nobody else is going to give it to you.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I want my kids to know that it’s up to them to design their own lives. Manifestation is real—you can either build the life you want with intention, or you can let society build it for you, and that usually isn’t what you truly want.
1303 West Valencia Drive, Suite 259, Fullerton, CA 92833 949-209-8332 | espositoinjurylaw.com
SARA MCCARTAN
REALTOR | BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES CALIFORNIA PROPERTIES
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
I worked as a real estate, construction defects, and land use paralegal for 20 years. In 2001, I decided to start my own business so I contacted a real estate brokerage and started “selling” real estate. My legal background has been of tremendous benefit to my clients. I serve the client before, during, and after the closing and NEVER calculate commissions prior to closing.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I am a mentor to new agents at Berkshire Hathaway. I am a staunch advocate for women starting their own businesses. I love sharing my experience with new agents and watching their success.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I am always willing to share my real estate stories and experiences with new agents. I love offering tips and tricks of the trade to run a smooth and rewarding real estate business (I call it “Real Estate 101”) and am always pleased when a realtor says they remember something I taught them many years prior.
BARBARA KLEIN
OWNER | BARBARA KLEIN ATTORNEY AT LAW, P.C.
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
After graduating with a degree in Political Science, I took my first job at a marketing company. I quickly realized that the work wasn’t fulfilling. I craved more flexibility, autonomy, and the ability to make a real impact. That realization led me to law school, where I found my calling as a divorce attorney. I have now been a practicing attorney for 29 years. I provide not only legal guidance but also emotional support to clients navigating one of life’s most challenging transitions. Helping people regain stability and confidence during such a pivotal moment is the most rewarding part of my career.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
We all want to win; however, it’s important to consider what might be lost in the process. In divorce cases, settlement is a victory. Integrity and honesty will take you further than an all-out war.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I practiced law with compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to putting the client first. I want my legacy to be that I helped families navigate difficult times by determining what was best for both my client and their loved ones. Even after my services are complete, my goal is for the family—though divided—to remain a family. No amount of money is worth destroying that in the process of a divorce.
DAWN
S. REESE, CFRE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | THE WOODEN FLOOR
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you’re passionate about?
When I graduated from college, I began my career in management consulting in the high-technology sector. My first mentor encouraged me to give back to the community, and I served on the board of directors for several nonprofits in education, health and human services, and the arts. I brought my “mission-driven, business-minded” philosophy to The Wooden Floor in 2009.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I lead by example as a servant leader. Through the lens of empathy and understanding, I strive to learn about the needs of those I serve at The Wooden Floor and in our community. I coach and mentor, and I serve as an executive sponsor by using my own influence to open doors for women and girls.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I am, and want to be known as a community builder, connector, and advocate for the benefit of children—especially those who need us the most in Orange County and across our nation.
1810 North Main Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706
714-541-8314 | TheWoodenFloor.org
2424 S.E. Bristol Street, Suite 300, Newport Beach 949-475-0468 | kleinfamilylaw.com
