Exceptional Women in Business

WELCOME TO EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN IN BUSINESS

In celebration of Women's History Month, Our City is profiling these successful women to inspire the next generation of leaders in our community.

Meirav Susi

Realtor

RE/MAX ParkCreek

HER STORY

Meirav is a Realtor with RE/MAX ParkCreek serving Broward County. She takes pride in knowing and serving her neighbors in all their real estate needs. She sets herself apart by knowing the community inside and out. Schools, churches, health clubs, libraries, parks, zoning codes—these are all important things to consider when looking to buy a home.

HOW HAS BEING A WOMAN AFFECTED YOUR CAREER?

I had to learn fast how to juggle motherhood and a new career when I started Real Estate. I was lucky enough to have a husband that encouraged me and supported me to follow my dreams.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN?

Always reach for the stars and never let anyone tell you that you can’t be successful.

“Don’t be intimidated by what you don’t know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else.” ―Sara Blakely

Kimberly Martin

Owner/Director

Kiddie Academy of Coral Springs

HER STORY

Kimberly’s journey into the early childhood field started when she had to send her daughter to pre-school. She remembers dropping her sweet baby off and thinking how lucky the ladies would be working with the children. She decided then to pursue her dream job: Fingerpainting, playing with play-dough, reading stories, dancing and singing, exploring sand, and making an edible school bus.

Kimberly eventually changed her degree path from

nursing to Early Childhood Education and has been in the field for over 30 years. Every hug, smile, and laugh of each of the children she has had the pleasure of teaching makes it all worthwhile.

HOW HAS BEING A WOMAN AFFECTED YOUR CAREER?

Being a woman gave me a better understanding of how hard it is to juggle family and career. As a mother of four, and a grandparent of 7, I know what a big decision it is to leave your baby or young child in the care of someone you do not know. It is such an honor when parents choose our program. I do my best to provide a family-friendly atmosphere with all my heart while also providing a safe environment with open communication with parents. .

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN?

I believe that caring for and teaching young children is the most important job on the planet. It is also the most rewarding career that impacts little humans’ lives. The day you spend with the children exploring, playing, and growing help turn each child in your care into a good citizen. Then, in turn, it makes the community where you live a better place, now and in the future..

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Photos courtesy of the Hollywood CRA the Perfect Canvas for Many Masterpieces see Feature story pg 14 See page 17 Helps Children Achieve Healthy & Beautiful Smiles See Story Pg. 40 Extraordinary Service in Our Beautiful Showroom! LEARN MORE ON PAGE 41 PHOTO: LUX IMAGES Photo: Adriana Fonseca Dan Marino & Don Shula Celebrate the ER Expansion at Aventura Hospital and Medical Center See Page 16 PAID FOR AND APPROVED BY SHEILA CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK FOR CONGRESS August 18th Primary Election Vote Guide See Page 23 • LD/ADHD/ASD/Anxiety

Your local communitY news magazine!    JulY 2016 YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS MAGAZINE OurCityMedia.com MAY 2017 YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS MAGAZINE     MAY 2017 Your LocaL communitY news magazine!    June 2016OurCityMedia.com • Honors Classes Available Visit us online at www.ourcitydavie.comOur City We Connect Communities August 2020 DAVIE • COOPER CITY • SW RANCHES Voted Best Preschool in Weston Weston's Premier Early Childhood Learning Academy! The faith-based preschool grows with the addition of Kindergarten Tree of Life court that replicates what the Miami Heat have outside of American Airlines Arena. Between the top-notch facilities, excellent curriculum, and dedicated staff, it comes as no surprise that Tree of Life has already garnered a ‘Best Private Early Childhood Facility’ award. Higher Level of Care & Education Committed to giving your child a Our City We Connect Communities August 2020 PLANTATION • SUNRISE August 2020 Visit us online at www.ourcityplantation.com www.ourcityplantation.com Visit us online at www.ourcitypembrokepines.com We Connect Communities | July 2020| July 2020 Pembroke Pines Our City • Customized Instruction

We have the highest percentage in Weston A Brand New Kindergarten 6 YEARS Remarkable Campus & Facilities of graduates reading at 1st grade level. IN A ROW!

Infants thru Pre-K • Accelerated Reading Program • STEAM Program (Science-Technology-Engineering-Art-Mathematics) Included in monthly tuition: by JASON ZAUDER For centuries, children have learned about the ‘Tree Of Life’ from the Book of Genesis.At the Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool in Weston, children are learning many of life’s lessons in a thriving, mod“My daughter in kindergarten is excelling in reading & writing, she loves learning and I know it’s because of Tree of Life. Their amazing That magic will expand to Tree of Life’s The faith-based preschool grows with the addition of Kindergarten Tree of Life Anniversary Celebration & Charitable EventsTree of Life’s campus has been thoughtful- BEST OF court that replicates what the Miami Heat have outside of American Airlines Arena. Between the top-notch facilities, excellent curriculum, and dedicated staff, it comes as no surprise that Tree of Life has already garnered a ‘Best Private Early Childhood Facility’ award. Infants thru Kindergarten •Low student to teacher ratio •Nurse & clinic on premises Parents of West Broward have spoken!! Higher Level of Care & Education Committed to giving your child a PRICE •SERVICE • SELECTION ACCORDING TO SUBARU OF AMERICA SALES DATA 2019 “EXPECT EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE from FLORIDA’S #1 VOLUME SUBARU STORE! • Confident and Successful Students! photo bY weston photograph Y WESTON PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO 2020 Your LocaL communitY news magazine! June 2016 Helps Children Achieve Healthy & Beautiful Smiles See Story Pg. 20 WESTON 2017 As voted by the readers of our city westonOurCityMedia.com 1250 SW 160th Ave. Weston, FL 33326 954.440.0174 • treeoflifeacademy.com school brings a balance of nurture and structure, giving students the best preparation for school years ahead! We are blessed to have Tree of Life in our community!” - Cruz Family • Armed security officer on premises • Bulletproof entry doors • HD security surveillance cameras The Security & Protection of your precious children is a TOP PRIORITY! • Low student to teacher ratio • Bilingual curriculum (English/Spanish) • Computers and iPads® • Organic & natural lunches TO ADVERTISE CALL 954.384.9666 DRW MAGAZINE 21ISSUE #304 • AUGUST 2014 • CELEBRATING 25 YEARS DRWMAG.COM 20 Anniversary Celebration & Charitable Events As Tree of Life gears up for their fall classes, they are also putting plans together for their one-year anniversary. In addition to their own celebration, the school will be coordinating charitable events for the non-profit Women in Distress in November, and Toys for Tots in December.Teaching their students to give back to the community is just one way that Buitrago measures the impact the school has made.“What makes us know that we are living up to our mission is when children come in for a tour, they often cry at the end. But they’re not crying because they’re worried that their parents are going to leave them here; the kids are crying because they love it here and don’t want to go!” Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool is located at 1250 Southwest 160th Avenue in Weston. They can be reached at 954.440.0174 or online at www.treeoflifeacademy.com. Enrichments: •Computers •Sports •Arts & Crafts •Spanish •Dance •Cooking •Music & more! Infants thru Kindergarten •Low student to teacher ratio •Full-time & part-time bilingual curriculum offered •Latest in computers and iPads® •Tuition includes 100% organic lunches & snacks •Introduction to moral & family values •Nurse & clinic on premises •One of a kind 1,200 sq ft indoor play area •Latest in high security & surveillance •4 outdoor playground areas •13,000 sqft building on 2.5 acres •Convenient drop-off service available •Kids Cafeteria Free Registration and Uniforms! (when transferring from another school) Parents of West Broward have spoken!! 1250 SW 160th Ave. • Weston, FL 33326 www.treeoflifeacademy.com 954.440.0174 Now registering for Fall VPK and Kindergarten New Private School “Tree of Life Christian Academy is definitely the most wonderful place for our baby!! The teachers are so loving and kind! Our baby is happy to go to school every day. I give Tree of Life Christian Academy a 10 out of 10!” -Arias Family “This school is amazing! From the ownership, to the staff, and teachers, everyone gives my kids so much love! We are very happy with our decision to have our children attend this school!” -Tavarez Family “Tree of Life Christian Academy is an amazing school!!! I am so blessed to have such a great school for my daughter to attend. Her teachers & the staff are amazing, & so loving & wonderful with her!!” -Paine Family by JASON ZAUDER For centuries, children have learned about the ‘Tree Of Life’ from the Book of Genesis.At the Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool in Weston, children are learning many of life’s lessons in a thriving, modern school.As Tree of Life approaches their one year anniversary, owners Gabriel and Marcy Buitrago are celebrating what they have accomplished while looking ahead to the future. “We feel like our formula for success is to be different than all the other preschools. Our intention was to create a feeling so that when a child enters our school, there’s a sense of wonder,” said Gabriel Buitrago. “The children are still going to be learning a lot, but we also wanted them to feel like they are in a magical place.” A Brand New Kindergarten That magic will expand to Tree of Life’s brand-new kindergarten program.Their kindergarten will be in a separate room that will not be attached to the preschool, and they are looking to reach a 9-1 student-to-teacher ratio.With kindergarten starting on August 18th,Tree of Life has already reached fifty percent enrollment, and placements will be filling up quickly.There are already wait lists for two- and three-year olds who want to enroll in those programs, and administrators are confident that kindergarten will also prove quite popular. Kindergarten will be open to all children, regardless of whether or not they attended preschool at Tree of Life. “That kindergarten transition is very tough on both the parents and the kids,” said Buitrago.“Many parents have been asking us to start a kindergarten; and with such a low student/teacher ratio, our teachers will have more than enough time with each child.” Remarkable Campus & Facilities Tree of Life’s campus has been thoughtfully laid out to make the most of the 13,000 square foot building.The classrooms surround an indoor play area where a custom-made wooden Tree of Life serves as the hub. Every classroom has their own private bathroom and drinking fountain,as well as an exit to the playground. Students can take advantage of a bilingual curriculum, learn sign language, and utilize the latest computers and iPads.All of these features are protected by a state-of-the-art security system, which includes security cameras throughout and two separate passcode-protected doors one must pass through before entering the building’s interior. When students need a break from learning, they will find organic lunches brought in every day to provide the fuel they need to explore the expansive outdoor area. A miniature soccer field was just completed to add to their four playgrounds and sport TO ADVERTISE CALL 954.384.9666 DRW MAGAZINE 21ISSUE #304 • AUGUST 2014 • CELEBRATING 25 YEARS DRWMAG.COM 20 As Tree of Life gears up for their fall classes, they are also putting plans together for their one-year anniversary. In addition to their own celebration, the school will be coordinating charitable events for the non-profit Women in Distress in November, and Toys for Tots in December.Teaching their students to give back to the community is just one way that Buitrago measures the impact the school has made.“What makes us know that we are living up to our mission is when children come in for a tour, they often cry at the end. But they’re not crying because they’re worried that their parents are going to leave them here; the kids are crying because they love it here and don’t want to go!” Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool is located at 1250 Southwest 160th Avenue in Weston. They can be reached at 954.440.0174 or online at www.treeoflifeacademy.com. Enrichments: •Computers •Sports •Arts & Crafts •Spanish •Dance •Cooking •Music & more! •Full-time & part-time bilingual curriculum offered •Latest in computers and iPads® •Tuition includes 100% organic lunches & snacks •Introduction to moral & family values •One of a kind 1,200 sq ft indoor play area •Latest in high security & surveillance •4 outdoor playground areas •13,000 sqft building on 2.5 acres •Convenient drop-off service available •Kids Cafeteria Free Registration and Uniforms! (when transferring from another school) 1250 SW 160th Ave. • Weston, FL 33326 www.treeoflifeacademy.com 954.440.0174 Now registering for Fall VPK and Kindergarten New Private School “Tree of Life Christian Academy is definitely the most wonderful place for our baby!! The teachers are so loving and kind! Our baby is happy to go to school every day. I give Tree of Life Christian Academy a 10 out of 10!” -Arias Family “This school is amazing! From the ownership, to the staff, and teachers, everyone gives my kids so much love! We are very happy with our decision to have our children attend this school!” -Tavarez Family “Tree of Life Christian Academy is an amazing school!!! I am so blessed to have such a great school for my daughter to attend. Her teachers & the staff are amazing, & so loving & wonderful with her!!” -Paine Family ern school.As Tree of Life approaches their one year anniversary, owners Gabriel and Marcy Buitrago are celebrating what they have accomplished while looking ahead to the future. “We feel like our formula for success is to be different than all the other preschools. Our intention was to create a feeling so that when a child enters our school, there’s a sense of wonder,” said Gabriel Buitrago. “The children are still going to be learning a lot, but we also wanted them to feel like they are in a magical place.” brand-new kindergarten program.Their kindergarten will be in a separate room that will not be attached to the preschool, and they are looking to reach a 9-1 student-to-teacher ratio.With kindergarten starting on August 18th,Tree of Life has already reached fifty percent enrollment, and placements will be filling up quickly.There are already wait lists for two- and three-year olds who want to enroll in those programs, and administrators are confident that kindergarten will also prove quite popular. Kindergarten will be open to all children, regardless of whether or not they attended preschool at Tree of Life. “That kindergarten transition is very tough on both the parents and the kids,” said Buitrago.“Many parents have been asking us to start a kindergarten; and with such a low student/teacher ratio, our teachers will have more than enough time with each child.” ly laid out to make the most of the 13,000 square foot building.The classrooms surround an indoor play area where a custom-made wooden Tree of Life serves as the hub. Every classroom has their own private bathroom and drinking fountain,as well as an exit to the playground. Students can take advantage of a bilingual curriculum, learn sign language, and utilize the latest computers and iPads.All of these features are protected by a state-of-the-art security system, which includes security cameras throughout and two separate passcode-protected doors one must pass through before entering the building’s interior. When students need a break from learning, they will find organic lunches brought in every day to provide the fuel they need to explore the expansive outdoor area. A miniature soccer field was just completed to add to their four playgrounds and sport FREE REGISTRATION & UNIFORM! (new families) Davie/Weston Premier Early Childhood Learning Academy! Feature Story Page 00. 2019 Developmental pre-School anD KinDergarten offers an enriching pre-School experience for your child see story pg. 14 LOOK FOR OUR INSIDE! aUgUSt 2016Back to School Guide photo bY weston photograph OurCityMedia.com Y Negroni Law Group, LLC Handles Personal Injury & Property Damage with a Personal Touch Feature Story Page 20 KIm Ruoff Photography See pg. 21 Your LocaL communitY newS magazine!    JuLY 2016 SubaruOfPembrokePines.com OurCityMedia.com SEE PAGE 21 Coral Springs 954.575.1231 www.centeracademy.com

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS IN CORAL SPRINGS HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY!

NOW OPEN

561.210.7020

Dyan’s 15th Anniversary Special 15% OFF

On All Checks Before Tax

Only at Dyan’s. Cannot be combined with any other discounts or coupons. Must mention coupon to redeem. Valid through 3/31/21.

Dyan’s 15th Anniversary Special FREE Glass of Wine

with Regular Dinner - OR Mimosa on Sundays

with Breakfast Entrée

Only at Dyan’s. Cannot be combined with any other discounts or coupons. Must mention coupon to redeem. Valid through 3/31/21.

Open 7 Days Sunday - Wednesday: 6:30AM to 3PM Thursday - Saturday: 6:30AM to 8PM (Serving Dinner) 954.755.7590

9100 Wiles Road, Coral Springs, FL

(SE Corner of University Drive and Wiles Road)

Dyan Harpest

Owner

Dyan’s Country Kitchen Bagels & Deli

HER STORY

Dyan has been a restauranteur, entrepreneur, and owner/ operator for over 40 years. She opened Dyan’s Country Kitchen about fifteen years ago with the idea that combining fantastic guest relations with fresh, quality food preparation will bring in long-term customers. Dyan oversees all of the day-to-day management of the restaurant. Everything from ordering food to hiring staff to accounting is part of her job. It is the life of a true entrepreneur!.

HOW HAS BEING A WOMAN AFFECTED YOUR CAREER?

I have always loved people, and being in this business since before my college days was a great way to learn to be hardworking and self-reliant as a young woman. It took me in a direction to where I am today and to allow myself the opportunity to have my own business and the many sacrifices and responsibilities that go with that. I have raised three wonderful daughters, and as a woman, that and family are the most important things to me.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN?

Find what you love or what genuinely interests you or your natural abilities, and work with that towards what you may choose as a career. Have faith in God and faith in yourself always. Enjoy what you do and get educated continually. Balance your life and be good to yourself and others. Save your money. Most importantly, have joy and love in your life as a woman, and don’t be afraid to work hard even if your business is in a “man’s” world!

Every day is a workday in our business, seven days a week, in the range of 60-80 hours a week. You must be committed to be successful in the restaurant business. There are many “hats” you will wear at a restaurant. Always make the customer your #1 priority. It is very rewarding when you are successfully doing it..

Dr. Monique Rodriguez(Bain)

Acupuncture Physician

Five Element Wellness Center

HER STORY

Dr. Bain helps her patients with physical pain, emotional pain, recovery from injuries, infertility, and sports injury prevention. She also helps people increase sports performance, improve immune system response and, much more. An acupuncture Physician uses an entire system of Chinese Medicine to help patients. Dr. Bain is an expert in diagnosis, nutrition, physical/orthopedic exam, herbal medicine, supplement prescription, rehabilitation, and the ordering and interpretation of lab tests and images(such as blood work or x-rays).

HOW HAS BEING A WOMAN AFFECTED YOUR CAREER?

I don’t believe that being a woman has affected my career negatively. I never thought being the only woman in the room was a challenge. I looked at it as an opportunity to stand out and more likely to be remembered. The only challenge I have faced as a woman is balancing career and family. Being a wife, parent of 4, and entrepreneur can be challenging at times; having the responsibilities of my practice, family and trying to find ways to devote time to both is key to achieving that “elusive” work-life balance.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN?

Hard work and perseverance are the keys to success. Be eager to learn without being a pushover. Find other women to connect with that can mentor you. Play your own game and stay away from comparing yourself and your journey to others. Don’t ever stop learning, be independent in your practice and a team player at the same time.

“At the end of the day, you are the only one that is limiting your ability to dream, or to actually execute on your dreams. Don’t let yourself get in the way of that.” ― Falon Fatemi

Nadilia Gedeon

Owner

Custom drapery made by Nadilia Inc

HER STORY

Nadilia has been helping homeowners customize their homes for over 30 years. She specializes in working closely with the families she works with to find the perfect window treatments, bed skirts, and upholstery choices for them. Her business has prospered for three decades because she has always given her clients excellent service at a fair price.

HOW HAS BEING A WOMAN AFFECTED YOUR CAREER?

The biggest challenge in our field about being a woman is the competition from other women! I believe as long as you have integrity and satisfy your clients, you will succeed in our industry.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN?

Be yourself to represent the company & accomplish success. Pursue what you love.

“It is pure mythology that women cannot perform as well as men in science, engineering and mathematics. In my experience, the opposite is true: women are often more adept and patient at untangling complex problems, multitasking, seeing the possibilities in new solutions and winning team support for collaborative action.” ― Weili Dai “The most successful entrepreneurs I know are optimistic. It’s part of the job description.” ― Caterina Fake

Vanessa D’Souza

Realtor

RE/MAX In Motion

HER STORY

Vanessa has provided guidance and assisting sellers and buyers in marketing and purchasing a property for over 21 years. Her ability to develop relationships and build trust is central to what has made her successful over that time. Every person who works with Vanessa will confirm she has the highest integrity and professionalism.

HOW HAS BEING A WOMAN AFFECTED YOUR CAREER?

Being a single mom of three during the early years of my career was the most challenging as I had to juggle being a mom and full-time Realtor. Finding the right brokerage that is supportive and gives you the technology and resources needed in a fast-growing paced environment went a long way in helping me stay balanced. I could grow my business and still spend the time I needed to with my family.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUNG WOMEN?

For young women who have a passion for working with others and are looking to get into the real estate business, becoming a real estate agent can be a great career option. While being a young real estate agent has its challenges, you should not let your youth deter you from achieving your dreams. Instead, it would help if you used it to your advantage. Learn as much as you can and find a mentor who has been in the business for years and will guide you.

20 Years Believing in Miracles, AND WE STILL DO!

PROVIDING SERVICES THAT PROMOTE TOTAL BODY WELLNESS TO SOUTH FLORIDA FOR OVER 2 DECADES

Acupuncture • Massage Therapy • Pain Management • Mesolift Homeopathic Injections • Endermology • Derma Roller • Cupping Teeth Whitening • Stretching • Sport Injury Prevention & Management

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