P.O.W.E.R. Magazine Spring 2025

COOKING UP AN EMPIRE WITH TIFFANI FAISON

WHAT’S TRENDING WITH TONIA THIS SPRING CHERYL CASONE FLIGHT ATTENDANT TO FINANCIAL AUTHORITY

VIVICA A. FOX SEXY, SAVVY & STEPPING IT UP

WDEBBIE PINCUS OWNER

ith over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, I started my journey as a passionate entrepreneur selling jewelry, accessories, and handbags through both wholesale and retail pop-up shows. My love for fashion and commitment to helping women express their unique styles have always been at the heart of my work. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I knew we had to adapt to keep our business thriving. We embraced innovation by launching fashion shows on Facebook, allowing us to engage with our customers in a new way. This pivot not only kept our brand present in the minds of our loyal customers but also led to the development of our very own app, enabling us to ship our curated collections nationwide. Today, The Kloset Kouture/TKK, proudly operates both an online store and a brick-and-mortar location in beautiful Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Our boutique showcases a carefully curated selection of trendy and timeless pieces that empower women to feel confident and stylish. I am dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and creating a welcoming environment where every woman can find something that resonates with her unique style. When I’m not in the boutique, you can find me exploring the latest fashion trends, spending time with family, or enjoying the vibrant community around me. I invite you to visit us in-store or online to discover the latest collections and join us on this exciting fashion journey.

Cheryl Casone joined FOX Business Network as an anchor in September 2007. She is the host of “American Dream Home” on FOX Nation. Cheryl also appears as a financial contributor on FOX News Channel, where she provides weekly job reports.

Cheryl has multiple years of experience covering finance, business, and consumer news, including serving as a co-host of “FBN: AM.” She has reported on the impact of war on the economy, consumer fraud, global markets, foreign investment, and corporate governance in addition to her work covering the U.S. markets.

Prior to FBN, Cheryl served as a freelance business correspondent for CNN, primarily reporting from the New York Stock Exchange, and worked for CBS Newspath as a general assignment reporter. She also served as the overnight and early morning news anchor for MSNBC and NBC. Previously, she anchored a business show for San Francisco’s KRON-TV and served as a business and general assignment reporter. She began her career at CNX Media on the nationally syndicated program “Travel Update.”

Cheryl Casone

When did you first become interested in financial journalism?

When I was 22 years old and working as a flight attendant, my great uncle left me a small sum of money. I had studied communications, not finance, but my stepfather advised me to invest the money in the stock market instead of buying something of “short term value,” such as a car or clothing. After I served the drinks on the plane, I would sit down in the last row and read financial magazines and newspapers to learn how the stock market worked and understand what types of investments were good fits for me. That was the start of my personal portfolio, and my interest in financial journalism. Your career has taken you all over the world. What are the most important things you have learned from living in so many different places?

We are so lucky to live in the United States. We have privileges that

women in other countries do not. When I was a little girl, being raised by a single mother, I was taught that I could do or be anything I wanted. My mother felt she did not have those same opportunities in the 1950’s. She believed her choices were secretary, nurse, teacher, or homemaker. If I had chosen any of those roles in my life, she would have supported me. When I told her I wanted to be a flight attendant, she supported me. When I told her I wanted to move to New York and pursue financial journalism, she supported me. I owe her so much. Do you have any specific advice to give to young women who want to pursue a career in finance?

This is something I am incredibly passionate about. Young women must do everything in their power to educate themselves to manage their finances, including when to invest, how much to invest, and where to invest. Young women must be able to

News Anchor

Business Network

be self-sufficient. If I could teach myself the stock market, investing, and money management, anyone can. What criteria do you use to select the families for “American Dream Home?”

We look for individuals that built something from the ground up. A small business, a family legacy, a personal dream they were able to make a reality. Finding and buying their American Dream Home is the culmination of hard work, perseverance, and faith. It’s not about the home; it’s about their story.

What motivates and empowers you?

I am motivated to motivate others. This job is not about me, it’s about our viewers. What do they need to make informed investment decisions? I am just a supporting player in their lives. It is why I got into journalism 25 years ago. Empowering others empowers the soul!

www.x.com/cherylcasone

New York City based artist Deanna First’s work centers on her fascination with the female silhouette and capturing the essence of her muses. Deanna focuses on both fluidity and movement in her portraits and fashion drawings. She explores these themes through a combination of pencils, marker, watercolor, and digital editing. Each commission is individually tailored for private clients as well as emerging and established global brands.

In addition to producing custom prints, book covers, and package designs, Deanna also works as a live sketch artist for events such as galas and weddings. Attendees at these events are gifted custom fashion illustrations of themselves, each created in about four minutes.

Deanna has collaborated with a long list of iconic fashion and luxury brands, such as Hermès, Valentino, Dior, Tiffany & Co., Estée Lauder, Sephora, L’Oréal, Giorgio Armani, Jimmy Choo, Ralph Lauren, Diane von Fürstenberg, LoveShackFancy, Carolina Herrera, Cipriani, Meta, and more. She has also been featured with leading publications such as Vogue, Daily Front Row, and Harper’s Bazaar.

Who were some of the artists that inspired you growing up?

It wasn’t other artists that inspired me. It was more people, places, and fashion. I can appreciate other artists’ styles, but I try to stay in my lane and focus on evolving my own style without comparison to others.

I’m inspired by movement, fluidity, and femininity. I’ve always been drawn to New York City, Parisian scenes, and stylish women walking down the streets. Since I originally studied fashion design, I appreciate runway shows which showcase the models and movement of the clothes. It really makes my illustrations come alive. I find street photographers a

Deanna First

huge inspiration as well since I’m a big people watcher. Capturing New Yorkers in their natural element usually makes for a great sketch!

Why do you think your artistic approach has set you apart from other artists and allowed you to build such a successful career?

I see a lot of artists who copy other artists. That is never going to get you where you want to go long term. My artistic style is constantly evolving year after year. I feel being flexible and open with where my style takes me is crucial to my success.

I love the quote “Too much

intention, creates tension.” Being able to loosen up and not have so much control of your pencil allows for breakthroughs. Small adjustments over time can lead to an unrecognizable style compared to just a few years earlier. Embracing changes and not putting myself in a box is everything! It is my artistic approach paired with my entrepreneurial spirit and business ideas that has allowed me to build my life as an artist. The art is actually a small portion of establishing a thriving career as a full-time artist in a competitive environment like New

Alison Su Photography

Can you describe how your live sketch events work?

Yes! I illustrate guests live at galas, dinner parties, charity events, launches/ openings, red carpets, hotels, weddings, and for luxury brands in-store. I am down to about four minutes per sketch for 2025 (I joke that I try to knock off one minute each year). The guests start off by posing for me and I turn them into an illustrated keepsake they can have forever.

I pretty much fell into live sketch events. I thought my very first live event 10 years ago was not for me. At the time, I felt that I was too much of a perfection ist to create live art, without the use of pencil. I now sketch confidently with ink and have so much trust in my skill set. I use this as a reminder to not be so quick to judge if something is for you or not. With practice, the sky’s the limit. When creating a piece for a client how do you take into consideration the insecurities the subject might feel about their facial features or body image and still create a realistic rendering?

features, but it is so much more than that. I do put emphasis on what I find to be their most captivating features, while making sure their personalities shine through. Whether it is putting them in a power pose or having their favorite drink in hand, I want to make them feel most like their most natural and authentic selves in the sketch. I try to add the most subtle details - like someone’s beauty mark or freckles. People end up framing them so I want to make sure I deliver each and every time, especially knowing it will be a keepsake they will hopefully have forever. Capturing memories and turning them into tangible gifts is what I love most about my job as an artist.

What is your favorite medium to work in and why?

I don’t have a favorite medium; however, I am drawn to Microns and Copic markers as well as pastels. I love how buildable Copics are, since they have an alcohol-based ink, which gives the illusion of watercolor and adds dimension when layered.

sion of sheer fabrics. Pastels are fabulous since I can blend them out with my hands and become one with the process. Microns are lovely for adding the finest of details like sequins or intricate patterns.

Is there someone or some brand that you have not yet worked with that you would like to?

There are plenty! I would love to sketch on all of the major red carpets like the Golden Globes, Oscars, and Grammys. I’ve done Met Gala events before with The Plaza Hotel and at The Mark Hotel but have yet to be on the actual red carpet capturing the biggest fashion moments. Sketching at Paris and Milan Fashion Week and live runway shows globally, in addition to New York, has been on my radar.

My background is in fashion design with emphasis on evening wear, so I appreciate the artistic approach and details that go into couture collections. Gala events merge my love for both fashion and art.

What does the word power mean to you?

I try to capture the essence and aura of a person. You would think it would be solely focused on facial and body

My favorite trick is keeping my almost dried out markers, since they add texture to hair and are great for evoking the illu-

Power to me means standing in my authenticity and having unbreakable boundaries in all aspects of my life.

Instagram: @deanna_first

Tiffany & Co. Commission

Deanna First X Greenlight Creative

The Beverly Hills Hotel Holiday Card

Rachel Zoe

Carolina Herrera Event

Tonia's TRENDS

More subtle than the “Barbie-esque” pink of last year, powder pink is the shade you will be seeing everywhere this spring! Plus, the Hyperwear Vest FIT weighted vest for your workout, Oyu Cosmetics for natural, high-quality skin & haircare products, and fiber-rich Medjool Dates.

As spring brings thoughts of renewal, I am reminded that change isn’t optional. Just like trees grow new leaves, our careers must evolve. If you don’t adapt, you’ll get left behind. It’s that simple.

Cover Story

Vivica A. Fox

Vivica A. Fox is living proof that embracing change in Hollywood isn’t just about trying new things, it’s about survival. With beauty and brains, Fox has mastered what most in entertainment struggle with: the art of reinvention.

Her recipes: Potato gnocchi with salsa verde, taleggio and parsnip fonduta and traditional salsa verde.

Chef, restaurateur, and TV personality

Tiffani Faison has made a name for herself nationwide with her dynamic personality, culinary prowess, and fierce work ethic.

DOLLY COLBY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Lifetime

Dolly Colby works as both a labor and delivery nurse and as a staff nurse at Refined M.D., a cosmetic and medical dermatology practice. Here, she administers semaglutide to assist patients with weight loss. She also provides hormone replacement therapy for both men and women in the form of bioidentical hormone pellets. Produced by BioTe, these pellets are inserted under the skin and provide hormone coverage for three to four months. Dolly’s patients report feeling younger and more confident after hormone treatment.

In the future, Dolly hopes to become more active in Hearts in the Park, a charity benefitting San Francisco General Hospital.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

My friends call me the Martha Stewart of California. It is a joke, but I really enjoy making my home an inviting place for my friends and I to gather. I love to have my friends and family over for a homemade dinner and drinks/dessert around the fire pit.

I grow delicious heirloom tomatoes. I also love heirloom roses. Peachy pink hues are my favorite color, and fragrance is a must!

I like museum exhibits. The Palace of the Legion of Honor is one of my favorites, not only for the exhibits, but the stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.

One of my new projects is that I am learning Italian. It is such a beautiful language, and my goal is to become conversationally competent.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

Work hard at whatever job you are doing, and always try to be your best self, regardless of the situation. What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

I have two books on my nightstand currently: “Next Year in Havana,” and “The 5-Star Weekend.” I love historical fiction and fun poolside reads. Books that both entertain and provide a glimpse into the time period the book was set in.

www.refinedmd.com

Dr. Annette GADeGbeku

Physician,

Senior Associate Dean Drexel University College of Medicine

Dr. Annette Gadegbeku serves as the senior associate dean of Community Healthcare and Inclusive Excellence at Drexel University College of Medicine. In this capacity, she oversees community health programs, in addition to specializing in primary care, family care, and women’s health. She has implemented programs for underserved, marginalized, vulnerable, and at-risk populations with a focus on trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and refugee health and works to advocate for community health.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I was not always sure that I wanted to be a physician. I was a 9th grade chemistry teacher and middle school girls’ basketball coach prior to medical school. I made up my mind when I shadowed a pediatrician and learned of family medicine and community health.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Medical school is a challenging and rigorous journey. As an Afri-

can-American female (under-represented in the world of medicine) the challenges are great. I have experienced nuances, dichotomies, trials, and triumphs due to my layered intersectionality. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

We are judged and treated differently. We are overlooked for leadership positions and other professional development opportunities. There are few of us at executive levels. We do not receive the same level of mentorship and

sponsorship. We often balance the management of our careers and our households, which can significantly impact goals and wellness.

What does the word power mean to you?

To me, power means strength, resilience, impact. It also means opportunity. When one has power, they have the ability to make great things happen…not only for themselves but for others!

www.linkedin.com/in/abg-md

Lifetime

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Rebecca Genteline is a procurement coordinator for the United States Army, with over 15 years of creditable service. Rebecca is currently responsible for quality assurance, contract administration, and contract management. Her career includes positions as the civilian deputy chief of logistics for Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, chief of logistics informatics for Defense Health Agency, and various positions for Army Medical Command. After her Army active-duty time as a truck driver, she worked as a patient access representative and as a senior executive secretary for local Hampton Roads Hospital. She received her MBA from DeVry University, B.S. of Business Administration from Mount St. Mary’s University. She also has certificates in Aligning Supply Chain Organizations and Supply Chain Leadership from Penn State Smeal College of Business, Acquisition Career Field Certification Foundational Life Cycle Logistics, Developing

& Implementing in Outward Mindset and Outward Leadership from the Arbinger Institute, and Lean Six Sigma green belt. She is a member of Sigma Beta Delta and the United States Army Medical Department Regiment.

Rebecca enjoys her many hats: mother, daughter, sister, friend. She is also a certified USSF soccer referee and owns a consulting and contract management company.

Rebecca Genteline

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I got started because I applied for a job in civil service as an office administrator. My director saw my potential and he gave me projects to manage and allowed me to perform “other duties as assigned.” I just worked my way up from there.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

I feel the biggest challenge women face today is harassment. This isn’t just from men and it’s not just sexual, there are issues between women too. The second biggest issue women face is the gender wage gap. According to a SHRM 2024 survey, women in the US earn 83 cents for every dollar earned by men. While I don’t face this issue, I also know how to negotiate my salary because I will always fight for my worth.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is one’s ability to influence. When used properly, great movement occurs. Everyone has power, and we can use it in each of our roles respectively. I even have the power to change my own thoughts and actions.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I have the Bible App. So, on a daily basis, I engage in plans through the app, either by myself or with friends. I also enjoy listening to praise and worship music, coloring, and singing. Then there is soccer, my weekend escape.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

My dad’s work ethic. It wasn’t any single verbal advice, but by my observations and his constructive feed-

back. He taught me responsibility, accountability, and computer skills, to name a few things. As an adult, he helps me navigate my professional options.

What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

I am reading “Engage Your Destiny” by Ben Peterson. He spoke at church and his message resonated with me, as I am a combat veteran, and I am currently writing my own book.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I know everyone thinks they have words of wisdom for their younger self, but I would not change a thing. If I did, I would not be the person I am today, nor would I have the kids I have.

www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccagenteline-0494767b

Procurement Coordinator | Intelligence Center of Excellence Owner | GLion Acquisition Management LLC

Sarah Warden LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Award

Lead Preschool Teacher

Little Hills Learning Center

Sarah Warden is the lead preschool teacher at the Little Hills Learning Center in Maryland Heights, Missouri. She received her associate degree in Child and Family Development from St. Louis Community College in 2023. Sarah’s philosophy is that all children are gifted, they just open their gifts at different times.

What advice would you give women entering your field?

That each child is unique and to celebrate and embrace their differences. Also remember to listen twice as much as you talk. You will be surprised by what you learn.

Who is your role model?

My role model is my mother, who not only worked in special education for over 30 years, but put herself through graduate school while raising both my brother and me. Name one strategy that has helped you get ahead.

role is to make sure that they have the tools that they need to open their gifts when the time comes. What goals do you hope to achieve?

My professional goals for this year include creating and implementing a new preschool curriculum and making sure that my students are ready to start kindergarten in the fall. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I read, workout, play with my kitties, and I love to bake. What advice has helped you get to the next level?

roots to never forget where I came from.

What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

“The Unfit Heiress” by Audrey Clare Farley. It not only shows the strength and courage of a woman who faced struggle at a time when she wasn’t even allowed to vote, but also shows how she did not let her voice be silenced and eventually became a voice for others.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

The strategy that has helped me the most in my field is knowing that all children are gifted, and my

To remember that my family has given me wings to fly and

That it is always darkest before the dawn, and even when it’s dark out, there are always stars to guide you.

www.littlehillslc.com

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Bobbie Kristine Carlyle Lifetime

Bobbie Kristine Carlyle

Loveland, Colorado. Worked in bronze, her sculptures range in size from small pieces suitable for tabletops to outdoor installations larger than eight feet high. Bobbie is best known for “Self Made Man,” depicting a man carving himself and his future from the raw stone from which he emerg es.

The essence of Bobbie’s sculpture is captured in the phrases “bold strength” and “provocative intelli gence.” Her subjects range from figurative to liturgi cal, wildlife to western, all executed with imagination and vitality. She excels at getting to the crux of the moment, the inspiration behind the idea, and presenting that in her own dynamic way. Bobbie’s

Sculptor Bobbie Carlyle

compelling figurative work carries a strong psychological element, dealing with the full spectrum and complexity of emotion, the struggles and triumphs of life.

Bobbie received her B.A. in Fine Arts from Brigham Young University. During that time, she was also raising seven children, who continue to serve as inspiration for her art today. She has studied under many of today’s notable artists and takes influence from Leonardo Bistolfi, Solon and Gutzon Borglum, Daniel Chester French, and Michaelangelo. The result is a style that ranges from classical to art nouveau to contemporary, and is always distinctive, dynamic, and compelling.

With three decades as a sculptor under her belt, Bobbie has also taught workshops at the Colorado Institute of Art and other venues. Her works are displayed internationally in numerous public and private collections in reliefs, smaller works, life size fountains and monuments. Currently she is working with architects, landscape architects, land developers, and art representatives on numerous installations, commissioned pieces, and fountains.

www.bobbiecarlyle sculpture.com

Dr. Elizabeth G. Tolliver’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and transformation. From her roots in West Virginia to her impactful role in mental health, her story reflects how personal challenges can lead to profound change not only in one’s life, but also in the lives of others.

Having faced significant trauma, Liz’s experience could have led her down a darker path. Instead, she harnessed her struggles to fuel her determination, ultimately earning a Ph.D. and establishing Adaptive Counseling Services, LLC. Her commitment to her clients demonstrates her belief in the importance of accessible mental health care.

LIFETIME

ACHIEVEMENT

Prior to opening Adaptive Counseling Services, LLC in 2022, Liz was the school counseling program coordinator at the University of Nebraska, Omaha and taught master’s level clinical and school counseling at the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley and West Virginia University. Liz’s academic career has been marked by her dedication to connecting students with their communities, highlighting the critical need for mental health services across diverse populations. With 15 years in counseling, three of them in private practice, Liz provides counseling services to approximately 30 individuals per week, ranging in age from four to 68. She fosters relationships with other mental health professionals, connecting individuals to appropriate resources from medical care to social security, and regularly collaborates with attorneys, child advocates, and guardians. She believes that anyone can benefit from counseling and that money should not be a barrier to receiving services. Liz utilizes an integrative approach to counseling, while focusing on social justice, feminism, and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

Liz’s recognition of the need to adapt during this critical moment in history reflects her deep understanding of the evolving landscape of mental health and social issues. By leveraging her skills as a mental health professional and researcher, Liz is positioned to educate and empower both individuals and communities. Her focus on social justice and inclusivity enables her to tackle the systemic barriers that many face in accessing mental health services, which is the trajectory of Adaptive Counseling Services moving forward.

Award

Elizabeth G. Tolliver

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

The first is the sauna. It makes me feel like a new human and I believe it has changed my body, skin, and mental health. I have become obsessed with plants and the aesthetic they bring to a space, so when I need a break, I tend my plants. I love cooking with my partner. We are intentional about spending time together as a couple since we live separately. Most importantly, I spend time with my son. We do puzzles, play games, and interact in the community. He keeps me grounded, laughing, and reminds me not to take life so seriously. What advice has helped you get to the next level?

My stepdad is my best friend and biggest cheerleader. He has been my model for parenting, business, and personal growth. His advice when it comes to overcoming my fears and reaching my goals is, “90% is showing up.” I am determined to make a difference, so I show up. What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

“The Let Them Theory,” by Mel Robbins. I have been living those words since the podcast aired in May 2023. I even have them tattooed on my shoulder. So much is out of our control and the concept of “Let Them” allows me to take my power back.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

You were never supposed to be the quiet or tiny girl, AND you were always enough and loveable. She needed to hear that, and I still need to hear that every day. www.linkedin.com/in/adaptivecounselingomaha

Owner, Therapist | Adaptive Counseling Services, LLC

Ph.D.

Amanda Nowlin

Owner | Kidz Fusion Academy

Amanda Nowlin is a dedicated childcare professional and the owner of Kidz Fusion Academy, a non-profit childcare and education organization striving to meet the needs of children spiritually, mentally, socially, emotionally, physically, and creatively. Amanda earned her associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Forsyth Technical Community College and hopes to expand Kidz Fusion Academy to more locations in the near future. Faith is important to Amanda, both personally and professionally, and she credits God with enabling her to help her community through her work.

www.kidzfusionacademy.com

Gertrudis Hernandez-Cohen

High School Counselor

New York Public Schools

Gertrudis Hernandez-Cohen is a high school counselor in New York City Public Schools. Her unwavering commitment to social, emotional, and mental well-being allows her to help students navigate their academic and personal lives. As a counselor, career and college advisor, Future Ready Coordinator, 504 Testing Accommodation Coordinator, and Early College Liaison, she ensures that all students, regardless of background, receive the resources and support they need to succeed.

Born in the Dominican Republic, Gertrudis was determined to pursue her education despite financial hardship and other challenges. Seeking greater opportunities, she emigrated to the United States, where she attended college while also working to support her family back home. Eventually, she became an American citizen, embracing the values of hard work and perseverance that shaped her journey.

Gertrudis attended John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Deviant Behavior and Social Control. She obtained both her master’s degree in School Counseling and a post-graduate degree in School Administration and Supervision from St. John’s University.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Gertrudis went beyond her professional responsibilities to provide food, emotional support, and critical resources to families in need. Her dedication to her community has left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and families. In addition to her work as a counselor, Gertrudis has been an adjunct professor of psychology at CUNY/York College since 2007 and at Kingsborough Community College since 2024.

Gertrudis is married to Dr. Daniel H. Cohen, M.D. Together, they have a son, Jeff.

What made you choose a career in school counseling, and what keeps you passionate about it after 20 years?

Since I was a young girl, I knew I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. Coming from a humble background, I experienced firsthand the power of education and the impact that guidance and support can have. I realized that education was the key to breaking barriers and unlocking opportunities. Now I ensure that every student, regardless of background, has access to resources, mentorship, and pathways to success. I chose a career in school counseling because I wanted to be the advocate and mentor that I needed. How do you advise a student who is completely undecided about their future goals?

I help students explore their strengths, interests, and values by taking career assessments and personality tests and reflecting on their passions. Job shadowing, career fairs, and internship programs give students firsthand experience in different fields. Connecting students with mentors and professionals in various industries can provide insights and guidance. It’s important to help students understand that career paths are flexible,

and it’s okay to explore multiple options. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

In my Probation and Parole class, I was the only Hispanic student, and English was not my first language. I worked tirelessly preparing a presentation, writing my research, and recording myself to hear how I sounded. I practiced over and over until I felt confident. After presenting, I stayed behind and asked the professor, “Do you know of any private school that can help me reduce my strong accent when I speak?”

He looked me in the eye and said, “Young lady, do you know that your accent is beautiful? And it’s not just beautiful; it is your identity. Do not try to change it. Your accent tells your story, and it is something to be proud of.” That moment changed my perspective forever. His words instilled in me the confidence to embrace my identity fully. Instead of seeing my accent as a limitation, I began to see it as a strength, a part of who I am. That advice has stayed with me throughout my career, reminding me to be proud of where I come from and to encourage others to embrace their unique identities.

www.linkedin.com/in/gertrudis-hernandez-cohen-7b7a156a

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Spring brings thoughts of renewal. As I watch the world transform outside my window, I am reminded that change isn’t optional. Just like trees grow new leaves, our careers must evolve. If you don’t adapt, you’ll get left behind. It’s that simple.

This year, more than ever before, this is true. With AI and other technology quickly replacing jobs and even some industries, workers and companies need to re-invent themselves to stay relevant in this ever-evolving world.

Who better to illustrate this point then our cover girl, Vivica A. Fox, who, at the age of 60, embodies everything we stand for at P.O.W.E.R. – resilience, adaptability, and the courage to evolve. From a chance discovery on Sunset Boulevard to becoming a versatile powerhouse, her story isn’t just about survival in Hollywood; it’s a valuable lesson in strategic reinvention.

Vivica knew early on that her youth and fresh-faced look would not last forever. But rather than seeing this as a dead end, she’s turned it into a launching pad for multiple successful ventures – from acting to directing, producing to entrepreneurship. Her journey reminds us that true power lies not in clinging to one identity, but in having the courage to shed old skins and grow into new ones.

I am proud to say that within the P.O.W.E.R. community, I have seen countless examples of women who have masterfully navigated career transitions and professional evolution. Every day, our members demonstrate their ability to adapt, whether through major career shifts or meaningful growth within their chosen fields. These women recognize that we have the power to reinvent ourselves at any age.

But reinvention isn’t just about big, dramatic changes. Sometimes, it’s about the small pivots – learning a new skill, taking on a different role at work, or simply shifting your per-

spective. What matters is staying open to possibility and having the courage to say, “where do I go from here?” instead of “it’s too late for me.”

The beauty of reinvention is that it keeps us growing, learning, and evolving. Like Vivica’s expansion from actress to producer to business mogul, each new role we embrace adds another layer to our expertise and another dimension to our power.

In this issue, you can also read stories about chef Tiffani Faison, financial expert Cheryl Casone and author Minda Harts; find delicious recipes; discover the latest trends in fashion, fitness, beauty, and food and discover some great reads written by our P.O.W.E.R. members in our Book Corner.

As we embrace this season of renewal, I challenge each member of our P.O.W.E.R. community to consider: What version of yourself is waiting to emerge? What skills or passions have you left unexplored? What bold new direction might be calling your name?

Remember, reinvention isn’t about erasing who you were – it’s about building on your foundation to become who you’re meant to be. In Vivica’s words, it’s about “versatility” and always asking “What’s next?” This spring, let’s celebrate the power of reinvention and the courage it takes to keep evolving, growing, and surprising ourselves with what we can become.

After all, in the spirit of P.O.W.E.R., true strength lies not in staying the same, but in having the courage to change, the wisdom to learn, and the confidence to begin again – at any age, at any stage, in any season of life.

Tonia DeCosimo PRESIDENT AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Case Manager Homes for the Homeless

DORIS O. IHEAGWAM

Doris O. Iheagwam is a case manager with Homes for the Homeless, an organization dedicated to aiding families experiencing homelessness in New York City. Available services include family residences, early childhood education, after-school programs, treatment for substance use disorders, and vocational training. Some services, such as select after-school and recreation programs, are also open to community members. The goal of Homes for the Homeless is to set families up for success beyond shelters. Doris hopes to have a positive impact on families through her position as a case manager, and to empower families with the security and skills to eventually leave the shelters.

Doris earned her M.S.W. from New York University. Her studies included internships with the Educational Alliance, Jewish Board of Family and Children Services, Brooklyn Kindergarten Society, and Stanley S. Isaacs Beacon Center’s Take Action program. Doris first social work job was

working with the American Red Cross as a family activities worker. She has worked as a social worker and school-based liaison with the NYC Board of Education in public schools where she carried a caseload of 141 students in temporary housing. She has worked in preventive services, foster care, and with those who are disabled. Prior to joining Homes for the Homeless, Doris worked providing essential services to asylum seekers through Platinum Community Care.

Doris earned her B.A. in Sociology from CUNY Brooklyn College. She has taken courses in social work at Fordham University such as Human Behavior and the Social Environment and Social Policy and Practice. Additionally, she studied trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy at the University of South Carolina. She has also taken an Introduction to Human Service course at Robertson College. She has co-led parenting workshops and has given a presentation on suicide prevention to teaching staff in public school.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

I got started in the field of social work when I was an undergraduate student at Brooklyn College. I took an Introduction to Social Work course, and I was interested in learning more about the field.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Some of the biggest challenges and obstacles I faced in my career were working with difficult clients. Clients may have emotional or behavioral problems, and you want to make sure that they are getting services, even when the work is difficult.

What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed?

The advice I would give to women in my field or profes-

sion is to continue to do your best. Social work is challenging, especially when working with families. Women should be able to take care of the families and themselves.

Excellence WOMAN OF

What does the word power mean to you?

Power to me means strength. When you have power, you become strong. You have the privilege to do what you want. Power also means influence. When you influence people, you can change a situation that can work for you and them.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I like to take a break. It helps me to refresh and to be more focused, so that I have more energy to complete tasks. What advice has helped you get to the next level?

The advice that has helped me

get to the next level is to take my time and not rush into doing anything. I find that this advice reminds me to stay focused on the task in front of me.

What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

I keep books about social work next to my bed. I am always trying to improve my skills so that I can support families more effectively. For example, one book has taught me a lot about the importance of empathy and how to channel that into my work. What advice would you give to your younger self?

The advice I would give to my younger self is to not be afraid of being yourself. Also, always do the best you can. There’s so much you can achieve when you try hard.

www.linkedin.com/in/ diheagwam

OF EXCELLENCE Woman

Kris Hoff is an accomplished hospitality professional, coordinating tours of Milwaukee, Detroit, and the surrounding areas through Happy Times Tours and Distinctively Detroit Tours.

After five years as a paralegal, Kris came to the conclusion that the legal field was not the right fit. Though she found the work unfulfilling, the pros pect of leaving a stable job and venturing into the unknown was daunting. Encouraged by a friend, Kris leveraged her talents for research and organiza tion into a career as a tour operator and found herself thriving. The challenge of researching destinations, coordinating itineraries, and ensuring every lo gistical need was accounted for complemented her innate talent for logistics, problem-solving, creativity, and creating seamless customer experiences.

Distinctively Detroit Tours was recently chosen as the recipient of the 2025 TODAY! award, presented by Groups Today. This is an honor for an American Bus Association member who has demonstrated they have what it takes to make an impact in the group travel industry today—specifically related to relevancy, impact, growth, advocacy, and innovation.

Kris Hoff

Owner | Happy Times Tours & Experiences, Distinctively Detroit Tours

How did you get started in your field or industry?

I knew in my heart that I needed a major change. It was only at the persistent urging of a close friend that I finally mustered the courage to take a leap of faith. She encouraged me to consider a front office position with a local tour operator, assuring me that my skill set would be an ideal match. Reluctantly at first, I accepted the new role, still unsure of where this path would lead. But as I quickly immersed myself in the fast-paced, detail-oriented world of tour planning and operations, something clicked. The work energized me in a way the paralegal job never had. I realized with growing excitement that this was my true calling - to be the orchestrator behind the scenes, seamlessly bringing travel experiences to life. It was as if a missing puzzle piece had finally fallen into place. After years of feeling unfulfilled, I had at last discovered my passion and purpose. The transition may have been daunting, but it proved to be one of the best decisions I ever made.

Who do you consider your professional role model?

I admire Kate Scopetti, founder of MARS Tours. We share a creative, passionate spirit for the industry. It was a privilege to meet her recently and receive her compliment on our similar approaches.

What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed?

Embrace your uniqueness and take creative risks. Though not every endeavor succeeds, failure is part of the path to achievement. Dare to stand out - your distinctive perspective is a valuable asset.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is the capacity to influence and make a tangible impact, leveraging unique qualities to shape perceptions and drive meaningful change, while maintaining authenticity, integrity, and a strong work ethic for success. www.happytimestours.com www.distinctivelydetroit.com

TIPHANY YOUNG

Tiphany Young, a distinguished entrepreneur, author, and financial professional, is redefining the landscape of the cosmetics industry with her revolutionary vegan and cruelty-free makeup line, Tiffy Glam Cosmetics. Tiphany was born and raised in Belize and is the eldest of eight children. Her journey, rooted in a strong foundation of family and faith, has shaped her into the successful entrepreneur she is today—someone who exemplifies strength, determination, and an unyielding commitment to making a difference.

Tiphany holds a B.A. from the University of Texas at Arlington and an MBA in Finance from Louisiana State University Shreveport. Her pursuit of knowledge contin ues as she works toward completing her Ph.D. Her career in finance has included vice president roles in wealth management, where she honed the lead ership skills that would later propel her into the world of business ownership.

As the founder and CEO of Tiffy Glam Cosmetics, Tiphany has created a lux ury beauty brand that goes beyond makeup. Focusing on inclusivity and diversity, Tiffy Glam offers high-performance, cruelty-free products that cater to individuals of all backgrounds. Each product is inspired by the elegance and brilliance of diamonds, and meticulously crafted to ensure that it not only enhances beauty but also promotes self-confidence, making everyone feel empowered, beautiful, and unique.

One of the brand's standout collec tions is the Diamond Glow Collection,

a line of liquid lipsticks that combines rich, vibrant hues with a hint of shimmer for a bold and radiant look. The lip-gloss collection, Victorian Gloss, offers hydrating, non-sticky glosses that provide a perfect shine while nourishing the lips. Two stunning eyeshadow palettes offer a balanced mix of rich, matte shades and luminous shimmers, each carefully selected to create versatile looks—from soft daytime elegance to bold evening drama. Each palette is highly pigmented, long-lasting, and easy to blend, making them ideal for beginners and beauty enthusiasts alike. Tiffy Glam offers everything from everyday elegance to bold, show-stopping looks.

Outside of business, Tiphany’s commitment to empowering women and girls is unwavering. She is the author of “Breaking Free from Codependency: The People-Pleasing Prison,” which has resonated with audiences globally. Her writing provides a roadmap for self-discovery and healing, encouraging individuals to step into their full potential.

As a devoted wife and mother of two young girls, Tiphany balances her personal and professional life with grace, inspiring others to pursue their passions without compromising their family values. Her entrepreneurial success, literary accomplishments, and ongoing education embody a life lived with purpose, inspiring women now and in the future.

Tiffani Faison

Chef and Restaurateur

Chef, restaurateur, and TV personality Tiffani Faison has made a name for herself nationwide with her dynamic personality, culinary prowess, and fierce work ethic. Big Heart Hospitality is her Boston-based restaurant group where she creates restaurants that are warm, inspired, and instantly loveable. These include Sweet Cheeks Q and Fool’s Errand, both located in Boston’s Fenway neighborhood. In 2022, Tiffani opened Dive Bar, Tenderoni’s, and Bubble Bath in High Street Place in the Financial District of Boston, and in 2024, added Charming Gardener to the High Street Place line up of restaurants.

Where does your love of cooking come from?

I began working in restaurants at 14 and loved the pace and camaraderie. Once the honeymoon period was over, I really began to explore ingredients, flavors, and creativity. I combined that into cooking for others, enjoying it as an act of love and an expression of care. And like any true relationship, there are days when cooking and I are deeply in love and days when we leave each other well enough alone. The days we are in love far outweigh the others. What chefs have inspired you?

There are chefs that exemplify how to lead and how to contribute to their communities, and chefs that dazzle with their daring, creativity, and ingenuity. It’s the very rare chef that does both with longevity. Nancy Silverton, Elena Arzak, Lydia Shire, and José Andrés are chefs that are certainly on that list. Posthumously, Judy Rogers and Charles Phan as well.

Is it harder to cook under pressure as a contestant on TV or in an actual restaurant setting?

Competition cooking pushes my creativity in a way that is instantaneous and relies on the knowledge that I have to handle the ingredients, constraints, and time of the challenge, which is great fun and entirely nerve-wracking. Cooking in a restaurant is a leadership exercise that requires prior planning, communication, preparation, and teamwork. Both are wildly satisfying when executed properly and heartbreaking when you miss.

As the owner of Big Heart Hospitality restaurant group how have you worked to build an inclusive culture that empowers women in your restaurants?

It’s constant work. The foundation has to be laid properly and then steadfastly maintained. It has to be clear what you value, what you support, and what you will not tolerate.

Tiffani is also a star on The Food Network. In 2022, she won Season Three of “Tournament of Champions,” beating 32 of the world’s greatest chefs. She appears as a judge on “Chopped” and “Guy’s Grocery Games,” and co-hosts “Beat Bobby Flay,” “Best Bite in Town,” and “Beachside Brawl.” Boston Magazine awarded her Best Chef: General Excellence in 2016 and 2022. In 2016 and 2019, the Boston Business Journal named Tiffani to its Power 50 list and in December 2019, The Boston Globe named Big Heart Hospitality as Restaurateurs of the Year and Eater named Tiffani Empire Builder of the Year.

Tell us about one of the most stressful situations you have encountered in one of your restaurants and how you handled it.

We were in the middle of service with the doors and windows open on a beautiful Saturday night in May when a four-legged friend came in from the outside and decided to make itself at home. We spoke to every guest while trying to calmly usher our friend out. We had to completely halt the remainder of the reservations for the evening and find our little trash panda. It was one of the only disasters I’ve encountered that was completely beyond my control, one we couldn’t cook ourselves out of. What does the word power mean to you?

Power is the ability to impact and affect your surroundings. Everyone has it, not everyone realizes it or uses it. The gems among us use it for good.

www.tiffanifaison.com

Let’s Get Cookin’ with Tiffani Faison

Potato Gnocchi with Salsa Verde

Ingredients

3 lbs. russet potatoes, washed

6 egg yolks, beaten

1 Tbsp. kosher salt

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)

Salsa Verde (see recipe below)

Chive blossoms for garnish

Directions

Bake the potatoes at 350 for 45 ° minutes or until fully cooked. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.

While they are still hot, using a clean towel, peel the potatoes with a paring knife. Alternatively, you can cut them in half and scoop out the potatoes into your food mill or ricer. Rice the potatoes (while they are still hot) onto a clean flat surface, spreading them out as you rice. You want them to steam dry as much as possible without getting gummy. Let them cool to room temperature without a cover.

Drizzle the beaten egg yolks over the cooled potatoes. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and begin to gently fold everything together using a bench scraper, touching it as little as possible. Have some bench flour set aside for flouring your bench scraper and your hands but try to add as little as possible to the dough. Bring it all together and gently knead it for 3-4 minutes. Cover and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.

Cut into logs and gently roll into snakes, adding a little bench flour if it starts to get sticky. Cut each snake into thumbnail size squares, about ½- ¾ inch per side.

Hold on a floured sheet pan and cover with a towel until you are ready to cook.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil; add 1 tablespoon salt. Add half of the gnocchi; when they rise to the top (after about 2 minutes), continue to cook until tender, about 15 seconds more. Transfer gnocchi with a slotted spoon to pan with your Salsa Verde and stir gently. Repeat process with remaining gnocchi. Plate and garnish with chive blossoms.

Taleggio & Parsnip Fonduta

Ingredients

3 Tbsp. unsalted butter

½ cup diced onion (one small onion)

1 ½ cups parsnips, peeled and chopped

8 cloves of garlic, minced

½ cup white wine

2 cups milk

½ cup grated parmesan cheese

½ lb. Taleggio cheese, thick rinds removed, thin rinds are fine

Salt, to taste

Directions

In a medium pot, melt the butter and cook the onion and parsnip until soft. Add scant amounts of water while cooking to keep it from developing color. Season with salt and add the minced garlic. Cook until the garlic becomes soft.

¼ cup capers, chopped with their juice

1 Tbsp. honey

1 cup sherry vinegar

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

½ cup lemon olive oil

Deglaze with white wine and reduce by 3/4.

Add the milk and cook for 15 minutes on medium heat. Add the grated parmesan and Taleggio whisking to combine. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring frequently. In batches, combine all ingredients in a blender until completely smooth.

Serve with bread and vegetables for dipping.

Salt and pepper to taste

Splash fish sauce (optional)

Directions

Sprinkle spring garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes, then turn over and grill till soft. Remove from grill and set aside to cool, then chop finely. Whisk all ingredients together in a large bowl. Taste and adjust with more salt, olive oil, or vinegar as needed.

Lakeisha Davis

Author & Speaker

What are some of the biggest obstacles/challenges you faced in your career?

Lakeisha S. Davis is is an author and public speaker in Chicago, Illinois. Her varied background, including an M.A. in Counseling from Chicago State University, qualifications as a licensed insurance agent, and a strong dedication to her faith inspired Lakeisha to publish her first book and begin a career as a speaker and life coach. Her long-term goals include opening a nonprofit to offer counseling to people in need.

An avid reader who always had a journal with her, Lakeisha found inspiration at church, school, and work. In 2021, she published her first book, “Biological Clock: A Sweet and Simple Guide to Waiting on God’s Perfect Timing.” Hopeful that her writing will encourage and motivate readers, Lakeisha is also branching out into coaching.

One of the biggest obstacles that I have faced as a published author is getting people to buy the book. I want readers to be inspired and not give up on their dreams and their aspirations. How do you achieve work life balance?

My faith in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, prayer and meditation daily, and incorporating self-care in my personal life. This keeps me from becoming overwhelmed and burnt out from my responsibilities.

What do you do to escape and recharge even for a few hours?

One of my regimens a few times a week is walking and enjoying nature, especially when the weather is warm. Walking helps me get focused and relaxed, before my daily work, tasks, and responsibilities.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

The advice that has helped me get to the next level is to keep God first, help others get to their dreams and goals, work hard, and stay humble!

What book is on your bedside table and why?

The book that is on my bedside table now is the Bible. It has been the foundation of my life which includes faith, aspirations, strength, finances, relationships, careers, decisions, and wisdom.

What does empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means to me growth, strength, confidence, perseverance, dedication, support, and achievement. What advice would you give to women entering your field?

The advice I would give a woman who wants to become an author or speaker is to study those who have a track record of success and implement those techniques into your own style.

Who is your role model?

That is a phenomenal question. I have been inspired and mentored by many amazing individuals, whether in my family, the limelight, or just astonishing people who took me under their wings to mentor me. Many people saw my potential and have been role models. I would have to say my biggest role model is my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who is the basis of my faith.

What strategies have helped you succeed in work?

The strategies that have helped me succeed in work are my faith, prayer, hard work, perseverance, and a great support system of people to keep me accountable.

Do you have any personal or professional goals for the future?

Yes, my goals are to strive for personal and professional growth and obtain my certification in life coaching before the year is up. I want to continue to work hard while maintaining balance between my personal and professional life (including self-care). Hopefully, I can help others achieve their goals. www.linkedin.com/in/lakeisha-s-davis-ma-qmhp-6728153a

CRISTIE HOPE

A Story of Resilience, Dedication, and Success

For Cristie Hope, real estate is more than a profession— it’s a passion driven by an unwavering commitment to her clients. As a top-producing Realtor® in Alabama, she has built a career on trust, integrity, and perseverance. Her journey to success is not just about closing deals; it’s about overcoming obstacles, pushing through adversity, and proving that true dedication knows no limits.

Cristie’s path to real estate wasn’t traditional, but it was purposeful. Before stepping into the industry in 2019, she dedicated 13 years to the medical field, working in the X-ray department at CVMC. However, after the heartbreaking loss of her father in a motor vehicle accident and the earlier passing of her father-in-law to esophageal cancer, she felt a shift in her purpose. She turned to real estate, a career that blended her love for homes, construction, and interior design with her natural ability to connect with people.

Her rise in the competitive Alabama market was swift. Serving Sylacauga, Birmingham, and surrounding areas, Cristie quickly became a leader in the industry, known for her tenacity, market expertise, and genuine care for her clients. Her hard work earned her numerous accolades, including Alabama’s Top 10 Realtor® 2023 and Top 15% Realtor® of Homesnap. She is also recognized as Keller Williams’ Metro South Top 20% Producer for 2024 and 2025. Whether she’s marketing multi-million-dollar estates, navigating complex commercial deals, or guiding first-time buyers, she approaches every transaction with a personal touch and strategic mindset.

What sets Cristie apart is not just her success, but her ability to push forward, no matter the challenge. In November 2021, she suffered a life-altering accident that resulted in a double concussion. The impact caused two separate head injuries, leading to a mild stroke. Yet, even in the midst of recovery, Cristie never stepped away from her business.

Months later, while preparing for an auction for one of her sellers, she suffered another traumatic injury, falling down a set of stairs and sustaining a devastating leg injury. Though she immediately knew something was wrong, she refused to let her client down. She bandaged herself up, attended the auction, and completed her duties before seeking medical attention. What followed was a grueling year of misdiagnosis, repeated infections, and a long battle to save her leg. After enduring multiple treatments and setbacks, she finally found the right specialist who diagnosed her with crush syndrome, a severe condition caused by the impact of her fall. With the correct treatment, her wound healed within weeks—just in time to continue achieving new heights in her career.

Despite these challenges, Cristie’s clients never knew the extent of what she was going through unless she chose to share it. Her resilience never wavered, and her work never slowed. Just months

after both life-altering incidents, she was awarded Alabama’s Top 10 Realtor®, a testament to her relentless spirit and dedication to excellence.

Beyond real estate, Cristie is a devoted wife of over 31 years, a proud mother to her daughter, an OR nurse, and her sonin-law, who serves in the Navy. She and her husband cherish their time outdoors, enjoying camping, boating, and life on the water with their fifth wheel and boat.

Cristie’s story is one of strength, perseverance, and passion. Through every challenge, she has remained committed to her clients, proving that success isn’t just about selling homes, it’s about resilience, relationships, and making a lasting impact. No matter the obstacle, she continues to rise, inspiring others along the way.

Tough times don’t last, but tough people do. Keep fighting, keep believing, and keep moving forward—your resilience will lead you to victory!

MINDA HARTS

Author, Speaker, Workplace Consultant

Minda Harts is the bestselling and award-winning author of “The Memo,” “Right Within,” and “You Are More Than Magic.” She is a highly sought-after speaker and thought leader, frequently presenting on the topics of advancing women of color, leadership, diversity, and management at companies like Nike, Google, JP Morgan, Aspen Ideas Festival, Dreamforce, The Atlantic Festival, Forbes Inclusion in The Workplace, and DraftKings, to name a few.

Minda is an assistant professor of public service at NYU’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service and the founder of The Memo LLC, a career development company. In 2020, LinkedIn named Minda as the #1 Top Voice in the Workplace. In 2022, She was named by Business Insider as one of the top 100 People Transforming Business. Minda has a new book coming out this summer called “Talk To Me Nice: The Seven Trust Languages For A Better Workplace” with Flatiron Books.

What are some of the reasons women do not trust the workplace?

Looking back on my career journey and conversations with countless women, trust erosion often stems from lived experiences that haven’t been acknowledged. When women share ideas in meetings only to have them overlooked and then see those same ideas celebrated when presented by male colleagues later, it creates a ripple effect of distrust. Add to this the persistence of pay inequity, the exhaustion of being the “only one” in the room, and the burden of navigating office politics while maintaining professionalism – we’re talking about challenges that impact psychological safety. What I’ve learned is that distrust isn’t just about isolated incidents; it’s about patterns that haven’t been adequately addressed in our workplace cultures. Name three ways women can advocate for themselves in their careers?

First, consistently document your wins. Keep an “I am that girl log” -not just what you achieved, but the measurable impact of your work. This will become your personal playbook during performance reviews and negotiations.

Second, build authentic relationships across your organization. Not just networking up, but creating genuine connections with peers and emerging talent. These relationships often become your strongest advocates. Success is not a solo sport.

Third, learn to articulate your value in terms of business impact. It’s not enough to work hard; you need to be able to tell the story of how your contributions directly affect the organization’s goals. This isn’t about bragging; it’s about owning your narrative. Why do you think people gravitate towards you and your message?

I believe it’s because I speak from a place of authenticity and shared experience. When I talk about the challenges of being a first-time manager or navigating difficult workplace conversations, I’m not speaking from theory – I’m sharing real stories of both successes and stumbles. I’ve learned that vulnerability in leadership isn’t a weakness; it’s an invitation for others to bring their whole selves to the conversation. People don’t need perfect leaders; they need authentic ones who can create psychologically safe spaces for growth and dialogue. They want someone to keep it real. What changes have you seen in diversity in the workplace in the past few years and what do you expect the future will hold?

While we’ve seen increased conversation about diversity and some progress in representation, particularly at entry levels, the real work of inclusion and belonging is still ahead of us. The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges but also opportunities – remote work opened doors for talent that might have been overlooked in traditional settings. However, what I’m most interested in isn’t just demographic diversity, but the evolution of workplace cultures that truly value different perspectives and experiences. Looking forward, I believe we’ll see a stronger focus on equity in advancement opportunities and decision-making power. The future isn’t just about who’s in the room; it’s about who has a voice at the table and how that voice is heard and valued. My hope is we see a workplace that works for everyone. How do you hope young women will benefit from your book “You Are More Than Magic?”

“You Are More Than Magic” is my love letter to young women, but it’s also a practical playbook for navigating their path forward.

I wrote this book because I wanted our girls to have what I didn’t – a safe space to process their experiences, prepare for challenges ahead, and most importantly, recognize their inherent value beyond any external validation. When I think about impact, I hope readers walk away understanding that their magic isn’t just about achieving success – it’s about owning their narrative, building their confidence, and creating change in their own authentic way.

As I often tell my students, your journey isn’t just about you – it’s about lighting the path for those coming behind you. What do you think is the difference between good power and bad power?

Good power is fundamentally about elevation – it’s about creating spaces where others can thrive and grow. When I teach about leadership at NYU, I emphasize that good power isn’t about having authority over others; it’s about having the capacity to empower others. It’s collaborative rather than competitive, focused on building rather than controlling.

Bad power, on the other hand, operates from a place of scarcity and fear. It’s about maintaining control through limitation rather than liberation. I’ve seen how toxic environments emerge when leaders use their position to diminish rather than develop their teams. The key difference lies in the impact: good power creates more leaders, while bad power creates more followers. www.mindaharts.com

TRENDS Tonia's

FASHION

Powder Pink

More subtle than the “Barbie-esque” pink of last year, powder pink is the shade you will be seeing everywhere this spring! This demure color is pale and muted yet makes a strong statement and some say it will be the season’s new “neutral’ color. This hue can be found in shirts, dresses, shoes, and accessories. Feminine, but bold – just like the women of P.O.W.E.R.!

BEAUTY

Oyu Cosmetics

IFITNESS

Weighted Vest

don’t know how I lived without this for so long! Designed specifically for women, this Hyperwear Vest FIT weighted vest comes in a variety of sizes and is super comfortable. A great addition to wear during your workout or even just doing chores around the house, it can help improve your strength, bone density, balance, and burn more calories. It comes with individual weights so that you can customize your workout, up to 10 pounds. Get yours on Amazon!

If you are concerned about using skin and haircare products that are natural, high-quality, cruelty-free and affordable, check out Oyu Cosmetics from P.O.W.E.R. member Tugsoyun Davaadorj. All her products are lovingly handmade from carefully selected USDA organic certified ingredients that include superfoods! Not only are they paraben and phthalate-free but they are highly effective! But don’t take my word for it…visit www.oyucosmetics.com and try them for yourself!

Use the QR code to get your vest on Amazon

Medjool Dates

FOOD

Medjool dates are a superfood rich in dietary fiber, potassium, antioxidants, and a host of other vitamins and minerals. Because they are naturally sweet, they are a great way to keep your sugar craving in check in a healthier way. You can find tons of recipes on the internet to use Medjool dates in desserts. No, they are not chocolate, but they do the trick if you are looking to make a better swap for high fat and sugary treats.

Megan R. Woodard

Global Trading COE Analyst

Megan R. Woodard is a highly esteemed supply and trading professional, boasting 17 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. She is also a published author. Megan’s leadership style is characterized by a collaborative and inclusive approach, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. This has led to a proven track record in delivering complex, multi-million-dollar projects globally. She is known for her ability to inspire and motivate, leveraging her deep industry knowledge and strategic vision to drive success. Further, Megan prioritizes mentorship and professional development. She has demonstrated her commitment to community service as an ambassador for United Way and through participation in the Tulsa Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., the Houston Gas Processors Association, and the

How did you get started in your field/industry?

My career in the oil and gas industry was inspired by my parents. My passion for energy solutions and hands-on experience in various projects solidified my career path. I pursued a degree in business management, which provided a strong foundation. Internships and mentorship from industry professionals further fueled my interest, leading to a fulfilling career dedicated to innovative energy solutions and sustainability. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Balancing motherhood and navigating industry biases while ensuring my twin children thrived required resilience and support. My journey highlights the need for greater inclusivity and work-life balance in the industry.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Women today face significant challenges, including workplace inequality, reproductive rights challenges,

CHEVRON

Houston Chapter of the Women’s Energy Network. Previously, she served on the boards of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma and Total Source for Hearing Loss and Access. With a B.S. in Business Management as well as an MBA, Megan is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration from Prairie View A&M University and has made significant academic contributions as the lead author of the article, “How Will the SCOTUS Affirmative Action Ruling Affect the Integrity of University Leaders?” Megan attributes her professional achievements to the invaluable support of her mentors, community, and family, with special recognition to her twins, Jeffrey and Jordan.

gender-based violence, healthcare disparities, balancing career and family, educational barriers, and mental health struggles, all influenced by societal pressures and gender-specific stressors.

What does the word power mean to you?

Power is misconstrued as autocratic; however, power is servantry. It gives you autonomy and the ability to inspire while embodying confidence, courage, and resilience for promotion of growth and change. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I find solace in nature, whether it’s walking in the park or a weekend hike. I am also an avid reader. Disconnecting from technology helps me recharge and return with renewed focus and energy. What advice has helped you get to the next level?

Embrace authenticity and resilience. Bring your whole self to the table and adapt to challenges with grace. Surround yourself with mentors and allies who support your vision. Stay curious and committed

to continuous learning. This mindset has been key to my success. What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

“The Artist’s Way,” by Julia Cameron. This book is a transformative guide to unlocking creativity and overcoming creative blocks. As a professional, it inspires me to embrace my creative potential and approach challenges with renewed energy and innovation. What advice would you give to your younger self?

Believe in yourself and face challenges head-on. Stay curious, continue learning, and view mistakes as lessons. Value your relationships, take care of your health, and follow your passions. Trust YOUR journey and embrace every moment. Who would you consider your role model?

I have had the privilege of meeting many inspiring individuals throughout my life and career. However, one person who stands out as a role model is Barbara Jordan. Meeting her as a teenager left an indelible mark on me as the president of Top Teens

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

of America. Her unwavering commitment to justice and trailblazing achievements as a lawyer, educator, and politician have continually inspired me. Barbara Jordan was the first African American elected to the Texas Senate after Reconstruction and the first Southern African American woman elected to the United States House of Representatives. I strive to embody her values of integrity and perseverance in my community and industry.

Additionally, my grandmother, Betsy Ann Bonton (Blackman), has been my guiding light and source of inspiration. Born in Mansura, Louisiana, she exhibited remarkable poise and confidence from a young age. Her passion for her craft and sincere love for others were evident in everything she pursued. As I grew older, I learned more about her incredible journey.

Award

vestment will be pivotal not only for my personal development but also for enhancing my capacity to mentor and guide within our organization. The course will offer invaluable insights into emerging trends and technologies, which I can now leverage to drive our collective success and innovation.

Additionally, I believe in the importance of setting a positive example for my 22-year-old twins, who are both successful in their own right. By continually investing in my education and professional development, I hope to inspire them to pursue lifelong learning and personal growth. This $100 investment is a testament to my commitment to both my career and my family’s future, reinforcing the idea that the best investments are those that benefit not just oneself, but also those around us.

Professionally, where do you see yourself in five years?

My grandmother was not only a loving and supportive figure in my life but also an accomplished educator. She earned her education degree from Grambling State University, a testament to her dedication and hard work. Her achievements in education were a source of immense pride for our family and inspired me deeply. Her commitment to learning and teaching motivated me to pursue my own education and seek a doctoral degree. Her legacy of passion, perseverance, and love for others continues to inspire me every day. I strive to honor her memory by embodying those same values in my own life. What is the best $100 you recently spent? What did you buy and why?

The best $100 I recently spent was on the Harvard Business School course on Leadership, Ethics, and Corporate Accountability. This in-

I envision myself utilizing my 17 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, along with my Doctorate in Business Administration, to assume a strategic leadership role. My goal is to drive innovation and sustainability in energy trading, ensuring we meet and exceed industry standards. I aim to lead the integration of advanced technologies and sustainable practices into our operations, contributing to a more efficient and environmentally responsible energy sector.

Additionally, I aspire to advance my career as an author and deliver my inaugural TEDx talk, sharing my insights and experiences to influence the broader discourse on business excellence. I firmly believe in the power of knowledge-sharing and collaboration to foster a culture of continuous improvement and forward thinking.

Ultimately, I see myself as a catalyst for positive change, working to create a more sustainable and innovative future. My goal is to inspire and lead teams to achieve excellence, driving both organizational success and industry-wide advancements.

Nadine Della Pelle

Host | AM Show

Nadine Della Pelle is the host and producer of “The AM Show” on the LFN Network.

The show, which airs on weekdays, features engaging interviews with a wide range of guests from the worlds of sports, nutrition, fashion, entertainment, and more. With a strong passion for visual storytelling, and a bubbly personality, Nadine captivates her audience and brings every interview to life in a fresh and engaging way. Nadine and her co-hosts discuss trending hot topics, play games, and show fun segments, all designed to energize the audience and get them ready to tackle their day.

Nadine earned her degree in Broadcast Journalism from the renowned Newhouse School at Syracuse University. Before becoming an on-air talent, Nadine was an executive producer at Digomind Productions, where she played a key role in developing innovative formats for Disney, including “Quizney,” “Parker Plays,” and “Polaris Primetime.” She also produced “Streaming IRL,” a series of documentaries for Amazon Prime featuring top gamers like Pokimane and Myth. Her experience in both hosting and production has shaped her into a versatile talent with a comprehensive understanding of both front- and back-end production.

Cenequa Nikkole, the CEO and founder of I AM YOUR MOTIVATION, is a virtual life and style coach guiding individuals toward holistic transformation by aligning personal growth with self-presentation. Her unique approach blends life coaching—helping clients uncover their purpose, overcome obstacles, and set actionable goals—with style coaching, curating wardrobes that reflect identity and aspirations.

What sets Cenequa Nikkole apart is whether you need life coaching, style coaching, or both, her personalized, impactful sessions are conducted completely online. With one click, Cenequa is with you for all your life coaching and style-on-the-go needs. She tailors each session individually, offers accessible virtual coaching, and emphasizes sustainable empowerment over quick fixes. By addressing both internal growth and external presentation, she enables clients to achieve lasting clarity, confidence, and alignment, transforming not only how they feel but how they want to be presented to the world.

www.iamyourmotivation.com

Roberta Kay has dedicated her life to uplifting, equipping, and empowering women to step boldly into their God-given purpose. With over 35 years in ministry, she has walked through adversity, loss, and seasons of uncertainty—but through it all, she has remained steadfast in her faith. She believes that every challenge carries an opportunity for transformation, and she uses her personal journey to inspire others to move forward with faith and confidence.

Through Roberta Kay Ministries, she provides women with practical tools and strategies to help them turn their dreams into reality. Whether through her dynamic speaking engagements, vision board luncheons, or one-on-one mentorship, she equips women to dream bigger and take action. As the host of “The Roberta Kay Show” podcast, she creates a space for real conversations about faith, resilience, and stepping into one’s purpose. Her message is clear: faith isn’t just about believing—it’s about doing

How did you get started in your field/ industry?

Roberta Kay Ministries

My greatest passion came from my personal trials. After my husband’s passing, I faced the overwhelming challenges of being a widow, single mother, and leader. In that season, I learned to fully rely on God. It birthed a new purpose in me—helping women push past their fears, activate their faith, and step into the destiny God has for them. What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career?

One of my greatest challenges was managing a church and school while navigating the personal and financial weight of my husband’s passing. There were moments of doubt, but I refused to let fear define me. I had to ignore the fear that I wasn’t capable and trust that God had already equipped me for the journey ahead.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges women face today?

Many women battle self-doubt and fear of failure, believing their dreams are out of reach. But I’ve learned that faith requires movement. That’s why I’m passionate about helping women not just believe in their dreams but take practical steps toward them. www.robertakay.com

Karen E. West

How did you get started in your field/industry?

When money market mutual funds were coming into existence, I was offered a job with the Wellington Management Company. When Jack Bogle decided to start his own mutual fund company, he asked me to join him at his Vanguard Group, and I did. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Even a penny error in the price could be very expensive. I designed a control system where it was almost impossible to allow an error, which Vanguard then sold to other companies.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Most senior positions are held by men. Women are judged as too emotional.

Principal and Fund Controller, Retired Vanguard Investment Co.

aren E. West previously served as a principal and fund controller with Vanguard Investment Co. Currently retired, Karen spent over 40 years in the financial industry. She served on the board of directors and has extensive knowledge of mutual funds, fiscal compliance, IRA’s, ETS’s, 401(k) plans, and financial investments. She received an associate degree from Goldey-Beacom College and is the chairwoman of the preschool and chair of investments for the Epworth United Methodist Church. Karen is also an ordained deacon with the United Church of Christ. During her career, she was the first female vice president of Vanguard and received both a Quality Award and the Vanguard Award of Excellence. She was featured in the book, “The Vanguard Experiment.”

Karen enjoys church activities.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Power means giving people the power to make their own decisions until they prove they are not able to do that successfully, instead of deciding they are not capable with little or no evidence of that fact.

What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

Playing tennis was mostly how I recharged. It had been my passion ever since grade school. In fact, Jack Bogle was invited to the U.S. Open by a broker firm to play against some professionals, and he sent me because he knew I was pretty good at it. However, I had never played on grass, and I drew playing against Ilie Năstase in the first round. I think I did pretty well, considering. I was always able to hold my own against male players.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

The advice to take on difficult roles that were not very appealing to others. Being the fund compliance controller was a lot more difficult than being the business expense controller. What book is on your bedside table right now and why?

“Saved by the Light” by Dannion Brinkley. It describes the author’s two near-death experiences and was very inspirational to me. At age 15, I passed out in school due to high blood pressure and I have been on heart medication my whole life. What advice would you give to your younger self?

Know what you are capable of and don’t turn away from challenges of any kind. Don’t ever let anyone convince you not to try.

www.linkedin.com/in/karen-west-94466048

VIVICA A. Cover STORY

“You’re not always going to be the hot chick,” Vivica A. Fox says frankly. At 60, she is living proof that embracing change in Hollywood isn’t just about trying new things, it’s about survival.

With beauty and brains, Fox has mastered what most in entertainment struggle with: the art of reinvention. While many actors fade away as they age, she’s built an empire by constantly asking herself, “What’s next?” The result is a career that spans four decades and encompasses a variety of roles including actress, producer, director, entrepreneur, author, and philanthropist.

“Versatility has been the key to my longevity,” Fox explains. This philosophy has transformed her from a fresh-faced model discovered on Sunset Boulevard into one of Hollywood’s most adaptable performers. Her career began with music video appearances with Tupac and Michael Jackson which then led to soap opera roles in “Days of Our Lives” and “Generations.” These early opportunities opened doors to her career-defining roles in films like “Independence Day,” “Set It Off,” “Soul Food,” and “Kill Bill.” But unlike many who enjoy such great success, Fox did not rest on her laurels; she was always thinking about her next move.

This Indianapolis native’s strategic approach to career-building has been evident from the start. Rather than getting pigeonholed as just another pretty face, Fox consistently sought opportunities to showcase her range. She’s comfortable in multiple genres—from action blockbusters to intimate dramas, from horror films to romantic comedies. This versatility helped her build a devoted following and establish herself as a reliable box office draw that crosses generations.

Fox has continued to evolve over the last several years. In 2022, she produced and starred in the So Wrong Franchise with a

FOX

new Lifetime mini-series called “The Wrong Family” and the series “Keeping Up With The Joneses.” The year also included a hilarious cameo on ABC’s hit show “Black-ish” as herself, and she starred in “A New Diva’s Christmas Carol,” executive produced by Idris Elba.

In 2023, Fox received a Best Lead Actress award at the California Women’s Film Festival for “Twisted Vines,” and stepped behind the camera for her directorial debut with “First Lady of BMF: The Tonesa Welch Story” for BETplus. This project garnered her a nomination for Outstanding Direction in a Television Movie or Special at the NAACP Image Awards.

Last year, Fox expanded her already impressive portfolio with numerous exciting projects. She starred in the film “Every Day” on Amazon Prime VOD as well as in an impressive lineup of films, including “Like Father Like Son,” “The Lost Holliday,” and “Not Another Church Movie.” Most recently, she delighted audiences in Lifetime’s holiday movie “Make or Bake Christmas,” playing Leslie, a successful lifestyle business owner - a role that perfectly demonstrates her ability to bring depth and authenticity to every character.

Not limiting herself to just the small and big screen, Fox has a strong presence across multiple platforms, including hosting YouTube’s “The Screening Room,” where she showcases African American filmmakers, and her podcast “Hustling With Vivica A. Fox” - made possible by Dr. Phil’s Stage 29 Productions. Here, she shares conversations about the industry and the hustle spirit with

special guests from all walks of life, ranging from actors to tech entrepreneurs. She is also the author of “Everyday I’m Hustling,” which provides start-today strategies for success in business and “been there” lessons in love, mixed in with stories from her early family life and career.

Her strong business acumen has led her to expand beyond the entertainment industry. She’s built The Vivica Fox Hair Collection into a thriving enterprise, celebrating its tenth year of providing high-quality wigs and extensions to women world-

wide. The company does more than turn a profit—it gives back by donating hairpieces to women undergoing cancer treatments. Fox also represents major brands including Cadillac, Google, and CarShield, as their spokesperson. Her latest venture is a partnership with HSN for an inclusive fashion collection. The clothing features pieces that combine luxe fabrics, vibrant colors, and embellishments that are affordable and come in a wide variety of sizes. Designed to flatter various body types, the line strives to make fashion accessible to

all women and let them know you can be sexy at any age.

Always looking to pay it forward and inspire, Fox is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and frequently speaks at women’s empowerment events, sharing her expertise in business and entertainment. Her commitment to giving back extends beyond motivational speaking—she actively creates pathways for the next generation of talent through her various platforms and production ventures.

Fox says that her passion for lifting up future stars was deeply influenced by Pam Grier, who blazed trails as Hollywood’s first female action hero in the 1970s. Grier personally challenged her to become an inspiration for future generations of young women. Fox took this mission seriously, as Grier was her own role model; a beautiful Black woman commanding the screen with power and presence. Her admiration for Grier ran so deep that Fox even named her production company, Foxy Brown Productions, after one of Grier’s most iconic characters. What sets Fox apart isn’t just her longevity in a notoriously fickle industry - it’s her ability to anticipate and adapt to change while maintaining her authentic self. Whether she’s directing a new project, expanding her business empire, or championing diverse voices in entertainment, she approaches each new chapter with the same determination and grace that marked her early days in Hollywood. In an industry that loves to write people off, Fox isn’t just surviving—she’s writing the rulebook for what comes next!

P.O.W.E.R.’s Founder Tonia DeCosimo spoke with Vivica in a candid interview and here is what she learned: What prompted you to go into acting? How did you get this acting bug?

I was discovered by a gentleman named Trevor Walton. I kind of have a Lana Turner story - discovered on Sunset Boulevard. I was modeling and decided to have lunch with a girlfriend across the street from my modeling agency at Cravings. This gentleman just walked up to me and said, ‘Wow, you have a really cool look to you. Are you an actress?’ And I said, ‘No, I’m a model.’ When he gave me his card, my girlfriend was skeptical - he just had on a little tennis outfit. She said, ‘Listen, if he invites you out to dinner or to his apartment, don’t go - he’s not legit.’ Well, he ended up being legit. He worked at Paramount Studios. I went in. I didn’t get the part - I was very green. But after that, I started auditioning. He got me an agent, Chris Mitt, who I was with for many years, and the rest is history.

You juggle so many different roles: actress, producer, director, entrepreneur. What have you found is the most rewarding and the most challenging?

The most rewarding thing is to sit in a theater and see how your story or

www.hsn.com/shop/vivica-a-fox-collection/24279

your acting abilities touch people. Like the character Shante - she just lives on. Frankie from ‘Set It Off’ - she just lives on. The rappers use my lines in their videos - and when you see that feedback from the audience, that’s the most rewarding. The most challenging thing is going into new chapters. Young actors say to me, ‘Gosh, Vivica, you’re doing so much. How do you do this?’ And I say versatility has been the key to my longevity. Don’t just act. Be able to be a triple threat - sing, act, dance. Then, be a good businesswoman as well. Never limit yourself. But do know what you’re good at. The hardest part is finding the new chapters – playing a different type of role, stepping behind the camera, just always evolving can be the most challenging. But, if you accept those new chapters, it can equal longevity. How do you use your position in Hollywood to inspire and elevate Black women in the industry?

I feel it’s my goal to enlighten and encourage because someone did it for me. My role model is Pam Grier, who I got to interview. And Pam challenged me - as nice and as kind as she was to me in the interview - she said, ‘You have to be that role model for the next group of girls that are coming up. I challenge you.

I hand you this baton.’ I took that to heart because she was the first beautiful African American woman that I saw on screen that inspired me. Now people call me ‘Legend,’ and it’s my job to make sure that I uplift women. I just turned 60, and I want to show that there are many chapters in your life. What inspired you to start your various business ventures?

That would be my business partner, Lita Richardson. She always read my contracts with a magnifying glass. I used to be like, ‘Girl, I just need to know how much I’m gonna make and when they gonna pay me.’ And she said, ‘No, you have to learn everything that you signed up for and everything that your name is bringing to the film.’ After we did three or four films back-to-back, she said, ‘Time to become a producer.’ I said, ‘Oh my God, you’re giving me another job!’ She said, ‘No, I’m giving you another check!’ I have learned that when you’re in a business called show business, the more you know about the business behind the show, the longer and more successful of a career you will have. How do you juggle it all?

I’m able to handle everything because everybody connected to me knows their place, position, and stays in their lane. That’s how you can have a successful career - to have a good team of people that are honest with you, that challenge you, that find you opportunities. Like BJ Coleman, my publicist, encouraging me to write a book; my agent getting new roles for me to do in theater, television, and films; How Lita turned me into a businesswoman with the hair line and HSN - it takes a good team. You’re very humble. Why is that?

Well, my mama, Everlyena Fox, raised me across the street from the church and she used to keep us in church as often as possible. It seemed like every time those church doors were open, we were

running across the street – we went to services, vacation bible school, and every church function. When I go home, I still go to church and I’m still good friends with a lot of the church members. So, I would say it was my upbringing, and watching my mother, who raised four children by herself with two jobs and still managed to be a loving, caring parent, is what keeps me grounded. What does the word ‘power’ mean to you?

Power to me means being comfortable in your own skin and not being afraid to be all you can be. It’s a beautiful time for women right now. We’re the most powerful that we’ve ever been, and that’s happened because we’ve learned to stick together and stand up for ourselves. We can be vice presidents, CEOs, owners, mothers, lawyers. Women are capable of being everything, anything that they want to be, and that’s because we have the power!

Planning a girls’ night - would you rather go out or stay in?

I don’t mind a good old party, honey, because I like to dress up and put on my drag. I like to put on a Vivica A. Fox wig and a great outfit and go out there and have a good time. I love going to a wonderful dinner with good conversation. But I’m also a sports junkie - I grew up playing basketball, volleyball, track, and I was a cheerleader. So, I don’t mind taking my girls to sporting events, sitting courtside, and watching the boys run by and dunk. I’m also a huge supporter of the WNBA. And, sometimes I’m cool with just chilling here in my house watching the games.

If you could raid anyone’s closet in Hollywood, who would it be?

Beyoncé! She can go all the way from country to rock star to the red carpet. She’s just everything to me. I used to say Diana Ross was fabulous, but now I’ve got to update that to my new fabulous diva - Beyoncé. I’d love to raid her closet.

She’s got great stage costumes. The dress she had on winning the Grammy was just stunning. She was glowing. She’s very classy - that’s my kind of girl. What is a motto that you live by?

“Live, love, laugh.” That is my motto for life. Keep living, keep loving, keep laughing. Because we are living in such challenging times that some days that’s all you can do is just live, love, and keep on laughing.

Do you have a pet peeve?

Messiness! I am a super neat freak because I have to be organized to be productive.

Do you like to cook?

No, I do not! I live by myself, so I am not cooking a whole bunch of food to waste. However, I do have my friends over, and I order fantastically. My favorite little restaurants around here know me – I love going to CPK and PF Chang’s and sitting at the counter, ordering my favorite foods with a nice glass of Pinot Noir, chilling and sometimes watching my sports, answering emails, or reviewing projects.

You’re going out for the night. You can only bring one piece of makeup with you. What are you bringing?

My lipstick! I believe a nice pop of color just livens up your face. Tell us about your new HSN collection. I’m so happy to be creating a product line for the grown and sexy woman. My main goal is to tell women that just because you get older doesn’t mean that you still can’t be sexy and vibrant. The three things I want the Vivica A. Fox collection to be is current, chic, and colorful. We’re very inclusive - the line goes from extra small to 3X, so there’s something for everyone. It’s affordable, stylish, and designed to make every woman feel confident and beautiful.

The full interview can be found on the P.O.W.E.R. website in the podcast section.

Dr. Susan K. Grunin

Author

Aretired college professor, Dr. Susan K. Grunin is the author of the children’s book series, “Life Lessons and Tales of Little MisFit.” She has recently published “Life Is Like a Fountain – It Has Its Ups (Successes and Opportunities) and Downs (Failures and Disappointments).” Her first two books, “Life Isn’t Always What It Seems” and “Life Isn’t Always Fair” won the NABE Pinnacle Achievement Award. Dr. Grunin plans for the series to include seven books in total. In addition to writing, Susan creates original oil paintings and photography, which are available for sale on her website.

Dr. Grunin worked with children and adults for over 30 years, coaching, counseling, and teaching. During that time, she noticed that children who had an adult mentor at a young age were more confident and successful as adults. As an ex-

ecutive coach and probation officer, she found that her conversations with successful executives often led to a discussion about a mentor who had influenced them at an early age in life. After retiring from executive coaching and college teaching, and having written a graduate-level business textbook for the University of Virginia, she began contemplating writing a humorous book series for parents, grandparents, teachers, and coaches to use as a tool to bond with children. She thought that humorous tales would be the best medium and came up with a character who would demonstrate life lessons using humor and building self-confidence along the way.

and other colleges and universities. In addition, she holds a coaching certificate and served as an executive coach and CEO of Think Strategic Consulting. She also held positions as a human capital consultant and a federal law enforcement officer for over 25 years, where she was the first female regional administrator in the federal probation system. A future book about her federal law enforcement experiences is also planned.

During her career, Dr. Grunin spent more than three decades teaching for the University of Virginia

Finally, Dr. Grunin is a member of the executive board of the Gulf Coast Writers Association of SW Florida and a member of the Society of Book Writers and Illustrators. She and her husband, Howard, live in Naples, Florida with their Shiba Inu, Kona. They have two sons and one granddaughter. www.SKG-Creations.com

Parissa Eliassian

Parissa Eliassian is a Realtor® with Douglas Elliman Real Estate on Long Island. She received her master’s in Counseling Psychology from Long Island University and uses the skills she developed there to listen attentively, negotiate strategically, and communicate empathetically with her clients. Before becoming a Realtor®, Parissa worked in home design and construction with her husband. Together they have four children. Parissa is dedicated to giving back to her community and volunteers frequently. Among other awards, she is ranked among the top 2% on Long Island Realtors® and in 2024 she earned the Gold Award from Douglas Elliman, recognizing her as a top 15% producer company-wide.

How did you get started in your field or industry?

I started working in this industry more than 20 years ago alongside my husband, assisting him with all aspects of building a luxury new construction.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Real estate is a very competitive industry and it takes a strong person with true ethical values to work in this profession with honesty, integrity, and commitment.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Real estate is still dominated by men. There are still many more men investing in real estate than women.

What does the word power mean to you?

Dream, believe, and achieve. “All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them.”

www.parissaeliassian.elliman.com

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION OF WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE RECOGNIZED

YOUR P.O.W.E.R. MEMBERSHIP!

As a P.O.W.E.R. member you have exclusive access to services that can assist in taking your career to the next level.

Awards Gala/Charity Event

Join P.O.W.E.R. members for a red carpet evening celebrating women. This exciting night is filled with live entertainment, great food and drinks, and fun raffle prizes. Mingle with other P.O.W.E.R. members and some of the celebrities and icons that have graced P.O.W.E.R. Magazine’s pages. A portion of the proceeds of the event go to a breast cancer charity.

Travel Club

The perfect way to mix business with pleasure. Join President and Editor-in-Chief Tonia DeCosimo and fellow P.O.W.E.R. members on exciting getaways that may include important keynote speakers, educational components, and fun activities.

WHAT IS P.O.W.E.R.?

P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized) is both a women’s organization and a magazine.

P.O.W.E.R. ORGANIZATION

P.O.W.E.R. is an organization and networking website designed to empower hardworking women from different backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities. The women of P.O.W.E.R. work in various industries and professions and represent those who have achieved success as well as those looking to advance their careers. Through networking on our website, webinars, special events, and other unique opportunities, P.O.W.E.R. connects like-minded professional women, facilitates networking opportunities, and helps women gain the recognition they deserve. P.O.W.E.R. believes that by collaborating with like-minded professionals and building positive relationships, there is nothing women can’t achieve together!

P.O.W.E.R. MAGAZINE

P.O.W.E.R. publishes a print and digital quarterly magazine featuring our amazing P.O.W.E.R. members as well as celebrities and “icons.” The pages are full of inspirational biographies and empowering information. The publication also features lifestyle articles keeping you up-to-date on the latest trends in fashion, health, and beauty, and includes book suggestions, delicious recipes and so much more!

TIMES SQUARE PHOTO RECOGNITION

Your photo, name, and company name are displayed on a famous Times Square billboard in NYC. Times Square is considered the busiest area in Manhattan with approximately 330,000 people passing through daily, many of them tourists. Over 460,000 pedestrians walk through Times Square on its busiest days. It is also the hub of the Broadway Theater District and the world’s entertainment industry. It is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing an estimated 50 million visitors annually. This is a great way to attract attention and high visibility for yourself and your company.

PRESS RELEASE

A press release is a written public announcement covering your business and personal accomplishments designed to enhance your exposure and market reach. This newsworthy communication is distributed to print, radio, broadcast and social media sites. A press release can include your photo or company logo as well as a hyperlink to your company website so readers can instantly learn who you are and what your company offers.

If you are interested in being interviewed to get your story on social media, consider an in-person interview, podcast, press release, video, or possibly a Times Square billboard display through P.O.W.E.R. We can help get you the additional exposure you deserve to take your career to the next level.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Website: www.powerwoe.com email: info@powerwoe.com Phone: 516-365-3222 or 631-393-6760

P.O.W.E.R. TALK RADIO

Our podcasts are pre-recorded audio interviews which give our members the opportunity to convey a message or story. This is a great way to increase your exposure and market reach.

P.O.W.E.R. TALK TV

Set up your in-person interview through P.O.W.E.R. Talk TV. Allow others the opportunity to visually get to know you and your business.

P.O.W.E.R. PUBLICITY

Darcy Knapp-FricKs

TOP Entrepreneur

Darcy Knapp-Fricks serves in a variety of industries including real estate, investments, ranching and self-storage. She is the president and co-owner of Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd., started with her sister, Shelly Knapp, in 1999, which specializes in land rentals. They also own D&S Investments. She provides, maintains, and manages rental properties and real estate.

In addition, Darcy and Shelly own The Knapp Sisters Self Storage which consists of five self-storage building facilities. The facility is a AAA business with the largest of the five being climate controlled. They are open seven days a week. Their business was rated the #1 U-Haul dealer in the state of Texas and #3 U-Haul dealer in the U.S.

Darcy and her sister are members of the Texas Self Storage Association, the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, the Arlington Historical Society, the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. Darcy attended the University of Texas at Arlington and Texas Wesleyan University. She

Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd.

Knapp Sisters Cattle Company D&S Investments President Co-Owner

was featured in an article regarding her family donating land to make a historical park. In her spare time, she enjoys time spent on her ranch in South Texas and travel.

Darcy’s advice to others is to always go with your gut feeling; it will not steer you wrong. There is nothing too big or too small for you to accomplish. If you believe in yourself and whatever your plans are, you can be successful. She feels strongly that you should never let anyone take your dreams away from you. When she got the idea to build the self-storage facility, she had made up her mind that it was going to be different from others. Even though she knew nothing about the storage business until then, Darcy listened to her gut that told her to go with it, and it has been a success.

Distinction WOMAN OF

How did you get started in your field/industry?

The real estate company that my sister and I own together was inherited from my grandfather and my father. As a result, it just made sense to create a rental business, since most of the property was residential. My grandfather was instrumental in the development of Arlington, Texas, and retained a lot or two out of all the developments that he created. These were residential neighborhoods with small homes that we put together to create Knapp Sisters Rental, Ltd., along with other purchases we made over the years. We then used them as rental properties. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

The oil and gas industry has been very challenging. It has been a learn-as-you-go experience with these companies. My grandfather was an attorney by trade, but his passion was real estate. In the process of closing real estate deals, he retained all the mineral

rights to every real estate deal that he had a hand in. He said that eventually technology would catch up, and it did. My sister and I inherited those mineral rights to properties that we never knew anything about. This became a blessing when the Barnett Shale (one of the largest onshore natural gas fields in the U.S.) came into play in Texas. That opened a whole new field for us, but the learning curve was difficult. How do you achieve work/life balance?

I have a ranch in South Texas that I escape to whenever I have a free weekend. It is in the middle of nowhere with river front property that is spring fed. Being there is an amazing experience. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours?

I get back to nature. I have a hanging bed on my back porch. After a long work day, I make myself a cold drink, relax on my back porch, and watch the wildlife in my wooded back yard.

What advice has helped you get to the next level?

Always go with your gut feelings. What does empowerment mean to you?

Being empowered means being able to move forward with the knowledge and experience that gives you the self-confidence to do whatever you dream of doing. Who is one of your favorite designers?

Free People. What is your favorite meal?

Fajitas. How often do you cook?

I cook three to four times a week.

Name your favorite makeup products.

Estée Lauder.

What is your favorite perfume?

AMPERSAND from Tiffany & Co.

If you are having a dinner party, who is the first guest on your invite list (besides your children)?

My best friends.

www.knappsistersselfstorage.com

Whether you’re in the process of moving or are trying to clear some space in your home, you need a place to store your belongings with the peace of mind of knowing your items are safe and secure. Knapp Sisters Self Storage is an AAA, top-of-the-line facility in Mansfield, TX offering climate and non-climate-controlled storage units. We are also a Top 100 U-Haul dealer with trailers, trucks and vans for all of your moving needs! From a state-ofthe-art alarm system, to key-fob entry, to 24/7 security and surveillance, your things are protected with us.

OF THE MONTH Women

Beth A. Barnes

Beth A. Barnes is an attorney with CGRB P.C., representing clients across all aspects of family law. She is a certified family law mediator and a trained guardian ad litem. Beth earned her Juris Doctorate from Indiana University School of Law-Indianapolis in 2009 and was named a “Rising Star” by Indianapolis Monthly Super Lawyers magazine for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, and a “Super Lawyer” by Indianapolis Monthly Super Lawyers magazine for 2025. An active member of her church, Beth is a mother of three and enjoys cooking, baking, and traveling. How did you get started in your field/industry?

I started out as an insurance defense attorney and took one family

law case. That one case turned into 75% of my practice over a four-year period, so I switched practice areas. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Being the only female attorney at an all-male firm, having male attorneys constantly ask if I was the court reporter, and learning how to use my personal background story as a way to connect with clients and not trigger old wounds.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Being treated as an equal by male counterparts, having other women who have made it up the corporate ladder treating women as an equal rather than a threat, finding supportive mentors, and balancing family and career.

www.cgblawfirm.com

Admiral Helene Tonique Laurent Miller

AHelene Tonique Laurent

is a Hawaiian Pacific/Cherokee Native American Indian/Israeli/ Caribbean woman from Englewood Chicago, Illinois. She served in the United States Armed Forces as a State Guard of Illinois as well as a U.S. Navy Legacy Defender through the American Legion Post 208. Admiral Laurent has served in the United Service Operation (USO) and the United States Navy Memorial for the past five years. She has been awarded a Patriot Medal of Honor from the National Rifle Association and earned a Certificate of Service from the American Legion. She represents on behalf of her late great-grandfather, Medal of Honor recipient, Dori Miller, and salutes his leg-

acy as well as his services to World War II Pearl Harbor Hawaii. Admiral Miller is also a proud service member and survivor of the post-9/11 war era as an “Operation Homefront First Responder.” How did you get started in your field/ industry?

It was the end of the post-9/11 war era and Covid-19 government shutdown. I was summoned by the United States Federal Reserve and other service organizations to be a professional first responder.

Dr. Katie Eastman

Dr. Katie Eastman is a licensed psychotherapist, life coach, and an organizational change consultant specializing in the transformation process of change, loss, grief, and growth. She focuses on offering compassionate guidance through life’s changes, from daily transitions to the most serious events that challenge us. Recently, Dr. Eastman has been working with THE SOUL Psychology Center, a woman-led group offering mental health care in Ukraine. She works as the clinical supervisor of their holistic mental health recovery program, the Ukrainian Circle. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

In college, studying historical changemakers ignited my passion for psychology and understanding human resilience. Inspired and later mentored by Dr. Elisabeth KüblerRoss, I dedicated my career to empowering others to transform loss and change into compassionate, purposeful growth. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

My greatest career challenges involve navigating difficult conversations and ad-

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

I say my biggest challenges were having to serve during a global pandemic, finishing college, and my enlistment process for the U.S. Armed Forces. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges women face today?

I feel some of the biggest challenges we women face are power and equality! What women want is equality and to be powerful. These things mean the most to us women!

What does the word power mean to you? Presentation, Organize, Work, Education, and Represent. If you want to be powerful, presentation, self-organization, working, being educated, and representing is the key!

vocating to normalize grief. I’ve learned to stay compassionately present, using growth-oriented talking points to address discomfort and foster understanding in those hesitant to engage with the topic of loss.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

As a woman in psychotherapy, leadership coaching, and consulting, I’ve faced challenges including gender bias, advocating for compassion in results-driven cultures, overcoming self-doubt, juggling work-life balance, and redefining women’s roles as leaders.

www.drkatieeastman.com

Attorney | Cross Glazier Reed Burroughs P.C.

Master Grief Coach

dmiral

Miller

Retired Military

Alice Kay Locklear

Alice Kay Locklear is a professor of social work at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. She received her Ph.D. in Professional Leadership from Capella University in 2014. Her research encompasses cultural competency, mental health and substance abuse treatments, and community engagement. She has done extensive social work with the Native American population. How did you get started in your field/industry?

Early one morning I had a nearly head-on collision with a vehicle that crossed over into my lane. The accident changed my life forever. I

endured the weakest months of my life. Ultimately, social work called me to help others escape calamity. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Perseverance takes strength that comes from the core of one’s being. I was taught the importance of trust, hope, and faith. Individuals and situations will present dilemmas and unethical practices that lack a moral compass. Displays of these various conditions, along with building per-

Dr. Maribeth Hartwick

Dr. Maribeth Hartwick is a dedicated veterinarian with Westwood Regional Veterinary Hospital, where she serves as the assistant medical director. In addition to overseeing other veterinarians and offering mentorship, Dr. Hartwick handles all aspects of treatment, including internal and emergency medicine, surgery, and dentistry. She obtained her DVM from The Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine in 1994. www.wwrvh.com

sonal esteem, have been some of the biggest challenges/obstacles in my life as a Native American female. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Women face challenges of societal acceptance and are often expected to mold into dominant societal expectations while embracing their femininity without failure. These societal expectations demand a display of strength and yet also call for the presence of weakness depending upon the circumstances.

www.linkedin.com/in/

dr-alice-kay-locklear-08700b36

Rev. Natalie P. Alford uses her ministry work as an opportunity to provide counseling and coaching services. She also serves as an advocate and speaker in her community. Natalie received her doctorate in Education from the University of Rochester. In addition to ministry work, she also conducts workshops for the public.

tion at AT&T in their Management Development Program, created to equip and place candidates in their third-level management positions. I excelled, but after a few years the program was discontinued.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

While many women in general face big challenges today, one that stays at the top of “The List” of the biggest challenges is gender discrimination. Gender discrimination is unequal treatment and/or prejudiced behavior towards women based on their gender.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

My undergraduate degree is in Business Science, and I did not witness the presence of many Black women employed in this field. After graduating with my B.S. in Management Sciences, I was offered a posi-

One of the largest obstacles I faced was the lack of respect for Black women serving in upper management positions. These attitudes were shared by both genders and among a combination of ethnicities, including those who shared my ethnicity.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means I exhibit confidence in all areas of my life, i.e. those who are among my family blood and extended, and within other aspects of my life.

www.linkedin.com/in/rev-dr-natalie-p-alford-ed-d-m-div-28348025

Natalie P. Alford

Minister | Natalie P. Alford Ministries, Inc.

Professor | University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Veterinarian | Westwood Regional Veterinary Hospital

Dee Ann Summers

Dee Ann Summers is the CEO of Summers in Italy, where she designs high-end clothing using quality Italian fabrics. As a fashion stylist, Dee Ann uses her expertise to design clothing that flatters each client and encourages them to feel beautiful and sophisticated. She is responsible for all aspects of the business, including operations and sales and marketing. Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?

Growing up, I was always enamored with the style and grace of Jackie Kennedy. That led me to begin modeling

at a young age, which allowed me to experience international travel. Traveling inspired my dream of being a fashion designer. How do you empower other women?

I give each woman the proper styling for their body type and make them feel beautiful inside and out. Proper styling is what brings out the natural beauty and confidence everyone deserves.

Johnnie J. Holmes

Johnnie J. Holmes is the CEO and president of In His Presence, which produces Christian spiritual television for the Dayton, Ohio area. Johnnie conducts TV broadcasts for the organization, serves as a gospel soloist, and performs ministry work in local shelters. She received her master’s degree from Canterbury University in 1994 and her B.A. in Business Management from Tuskegee University in 1982. In 2024, Johnnie received the Trailblazer Christian Award. What advice would you give to women entering your field?

Deepen your relationship with God. Identify your unique gifts. Seek out sup-

portive communities. Be prepared to face challenges. Confidently utilize your strengths. Understand theological nuances. Actively seek opportunities to serve and remember your calling. Who is your role model?

My personal role model is my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He showed us how we are to live on Earth with all of the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith-

Rebecca L. Feliciano

Rebecca L. Feliciano recently joined Ocala Health and Rehabilitation as a staff development RN. She earned an A.D.N. from the St. Elizabeths Hospital School of Nursing and a B.S.N. from Wilmington University. Rebecca maintains several certifications, including med/ surg, chemotherapy/immunotherapy, gerontology, and equine-assisted learning. In her new role, she will be focusing on equine-assisted learning for clients dealing with PTSD and trauma. She is a proud Army veteran, having served during the Iraqi Freedom conflict. Rebecca enjoys spending time with family as well as riding and

caring for horses. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Taking care of people was innate and natural for me. To help a person at their most vulnerable time was simple. I soon learned my co-workers felt very differently about nursing. For me, it was not just a career or a well-paying job, but who I was. Many others felt that nursing paid the bills. Few knew nursing is a calling.

What advice would you give others entering your industry?

I look at each woman as an individual, so they can trust me to provide magnificent Italian fabrics and designs at affordable prices. You need to provide a product and service that keeps clients coming back for more.

Where do you see yourself professionally in the next five years?

I see myself continuing to create beautiful Italian designs, strengthening women to look and be their best.

Instagram: summer_in_italy

fulness, gentleness, and self-control. Although I’m in no way close to that perfection, it is my desire to be more like Him each day.

Do you have any professional or personal goals for the coming year?

My professional goals for the year are to take on a leadership role in the marketing industry. I have just partnered with NVisionU and I see this as an opportunity for both professional and personal growth. I want to improve my public speaking and to be a mentor to those in need. Also, as a wife of a pastor all these accomplishments would aid in ministry. www.linkedin.com/in/johnnie-jackson

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

The best nurses in my life are those who defend patient care over a position or title. It is difficult to lead with heart. If a woman has lost the desire to care for others, she has lost the innate purpose that sets us apart from men.

What does the word empowerment mean to you?

To be set apart. To be refined. To be clothed with purpose and resilient. To reflect the goodness and righteousness of God.

rebeccalynnefeliciano2019@gmail.com

CEO, President | In His Presence

CEO | Summers in Italy

Staff Development RN Ocala Health and Rehabilitation

Ashley M. Lloyd

Ashley M. Lloyd is the executive director of the Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida, showcasing her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the fight against breast cancer throughout Central Florida, Tampa Bay, Polk County, and more. Ashley’s goal is to be a trusted resource and compassionate advocate, as well as a catalyst and driving force behind the mission to eradicate breast cancer. She hopes that her personal story will inspire others facing a breast cancer diagnosis. How did you get started in your field/industry?

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021 at the age

Avarea Alexander

Avarea Alexander’s difficult early life inspired her to pursue spiritual healing and holistic medicine. Through Altar of Life, a nonprofit ministry based in Kauai, Avarea uses non-medical, holistic, natural cleansing protocols to transform the mind, body, and soul. She is a licensed minister, spiritual counselor, and yoga instructor, in addition to many other qualifications. Her book “Awakening Through the Path of Purification” has guided countless beings through the first essential steps toward spiritual awakening and ascension into light body consciousness. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Executive

Director

Breast Cancer Foundation of Central Florida

of 36. As a recipient of BCFCF’s help, I was inspired to help others in the same situation. Everyone needs support in their own way- financial, emotional, a wig, etc. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

When I began, BCFCF was working under its parent chapter, Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks. Over the last year I formed a board of directors and filed to be listed as a 501(c)(3) in Florida. I had no past experience with nonprofits, so it has been a huge learning curve, starting with fundraising. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

I think this list could be a mile long, however, the biggest challenge I work with is the lack of support that a woman diagnosed with breast cancer receives. There are billions of dollars of research, but no help in daily living as they fight for their life.

www.bcfcf.org

People come to our rejuvenating center based on word of mouth. Advertising is a challenge, since it is hard to describe the transformation and activation that happens, but once one has completed the process, their friends and family notice the change and then they contact us.

What does the word power mean to you?

Candace M. Butler

Candace M. Butler is a career, life, business coach, mentor, and the driving force behind CB Diversified Consulting Services. Her extensive leadership experience allows her to assist clients with their resumes, workforce development, and DEI initiatives and as an image consultant. She is also an author and motivational speaker and was named as an Outstanding Leadership in Healthcare honoree by Healthcare 2.0 in 2024.

I chose my career so I could be the mentor I needed at 19. Starting my journey without guidance, I learned through self-education, and failures. How do you empower other women?

I feel that most people do not understand what true power is. To me, our greatest power is in our presence of heart. Being of service to empowering and uplifting others in their own self-realization is our highest purpose. My highest joy in life and where I feel MOST empowered is the grace that others bestow upon me by allowing me to facilitate what is a very transformational experience, seeing others cleanse, purify, and remember the sacredness of their vessels as well as who they truly are, and watching their inner light turn back on. My greatest joy is seeing others empowered and uplifted. www.altaroflife.org

practice humility and be of diligent and intentional service to others. What advice would you give others entering your industry?

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?

I support women by guiding purpose, passion, and encouragement. I offer not only tools but also guidance on how to utilize those tools. I share my wisdom, meet individuals where they are, coaching and mentoring them to grow. It involves assisting them on their journeys, which is significant and impactful. My aim is to

Be authentic, honest, and intentional. Research, work hard, stay hungry, and stay humble. Focus on solutions and act with excellence and integrity. Build meaningful connections; your network is your net worth. Let your character and work ethic speak for you. See opportunities in problems and address them proactively. Being solution-oriented is essential, and it is important to always be an active listener and learner.

www.cbdiversifiedconsultingservices.com

Author, Founder, Practitioner | Altar of Life

Career Coach | CB Diversified Consulting Services

OF THE MONTH Women

Immaculada A. Moronta

Immaculada A. Moronta is the founder and CEO of Empyreal, LLC, an all-natural haircare company. Their flagship product, the Empyreal Hair Oil Mask, is plant-based and cruelty-free, designed to nourish hair and support scalp health. Immaculada developed her product in an effort to improve the health of her own hair, and used her business acumen to build a nationally-available brand.

Immaculada was raised in the Dominican Republic and relocated to the United States in 2014. She holds an MBA and is also a licensed mortgage loan officer in New York and Connecticut. Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?

My passion for haircare started with my childhood struggles with hair loss and hair damage. I was inspired

Karen R. Mertes Lt. Col. (Ret), USAF

Karen R. Mertes Lt. Col. (Ret), USAF is the founder and president of Fulfill Your Destiny, an organization that helps people whose careers have been altered by injury or other unforeseen circumstances. Special consideration is given to survivors living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), a condition with which Karen herself is living. Fulfill Your Destiny’s signature program awards ‘Business Builder Grants’ to proven entrepreneurs who have experienced life

CEO Empyreal, LLC

to create a product with all-natural ingredients to unlock your hair’s potential. What advice would you give others entering your industry?

My advice for others entering any industry is to be fearless, brave, and believe in yourself. Anticipate challenges and when they arise, face them head on. Ask for help when needed and learn from your mistakes, as they are valuable lessons that make you a better version of yourself.

Where do you see yourself professionally in the next five years?

I envision my brand having global success. I plan on mentoring the future leaders of tomorrow, and uplifting women to be entrepreneurs and leaders.

www.empyrealhairoil.com

Founder and President | Fulfill Your Destiny

changing events to take their business to the next level.

How did you get started in your field/industry?

When I was struck by a drunk driver traveling over 100 mph, totaling my car, I promised if I lived, I’d spend the rest of my life helping others through Fulfill Your Destiny, Inc.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

After the accident, I was no longer

Patricia Kness

Patricia Kness is a painter who works in both oils and watercolors. An artist for over 50 years, Patricia has produced hundreds of works, ranging from a series of twenty-minute paintings of apples, to portraits, landscapes, and acclaimed still-life flowers. She has received numerous awards and honors for her work, including The Lambert and Emma Wallace Cadwallader Prize for Portraiture from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Her winning portrait was exhibited in the Philadelphia Museum of Art for the month of May 1993.

What advice would you give to women entering your field?

Get your degree in marketing. Keep good records of who purchased what, with a photo, date, and price. Do what you love. Do not copy even your photos, make it yours. What strategies have helped you succeed in your work?

the same person. Among other injuries, I sustained a traumatic brain injury. I was a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force and military base Squadron Commander and CFO. That life path had ended.

What does the word power mean to you?

Personal challenges can strike at any time, most often in quite unexpected ways. How we confront challenges is key to my belief that character drives destiny. Power is turning what most would deem obstacles into opportunities for success. www.fulfillyourdestiny.org

I don’t know if I ever felt like I succeeded; there is so much more I want to do. Never stop learning, studying,

and looking. By looking

I mean study the sky, notice the color of winter trees, the warm tones, and the cool tones.

Do you have any professional or personal goals for the coming year?

My hope for the next year is to have a four-generation art show, including me, my son-in-law, two granddaughters, grandson, two great granddaughters, niece, and nephew.

www.patriciakness.com

Artist | Patricia Kness Fine Art Studios

Diane Woodland-Dawson

Diane Woodland-Dawson is a bookkeeper and tax accountant with Woodland Associates. The business provides tax accounting for small businesses, in addition to handling all aspects of bookkeeping. Diane enjoys sharing her professional knowledge to empower small business owners and women entrepreneurs. She founded Woodland Associates after losing her job unexpectedly. A mother of two, she had already been doing bookkeeping part-time and was able to expand to full-time work via word of mouth. Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?

Kelly Yabsley

Kelly Yabsley developed the Messy Baby line of products following her own experiences as the mother of small children. Frustrated by diaper blowouts, she patented a unique onesie paired with adhesive pads. Together, they stop babies from soiling their clothes when a diaper fails. Kelly’s B.S. in Business Administration from Georgia State University, combined with the entrepreneurial spirit instilled by her father,

My mother was a bookkeeper for several different businesses. I always enjoyed working with figures and with people. I enjoy helping other small businesses and sharing my knowledge to assist them in growing their business. How do you empower other women?

I consult with them and help them determine what they want to see their business do over the next year, five years. We take this information and develop a plan to help them achieve their goals. We stay in touch

has enabled her to be a strong business leader and offer a product that meets the needs of many parents.

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?

Once my children were born, I was always covered in blowouts and realized there was an inadequacy in the market. With the support and encouragement of my incredible kids and husband, Messy Baby Co. was born.

Virginia Klinger

Ginny Klinger transformed her love for driving and her heart for people into a successful car service serving Northfield, Minnesota and the surrounding areas. With a storied career that spans 17 years behind the wheel of semi-tractor trailers, a year of navigating Greyhound buses, and a tenure transporting highly-classified cargo for government-contracted missions, Ginny’s life has been paved with diverse roads. Klinger said she has to be available all the time, since the job has no set hours. Same goes for the weather. “I drive in rain or shine, even blizzards,”

she said. “The only time I have refused booking a ride was during an ice storm.”

While approximately 75% of her fares are airport-related, she said 15% of her business involves driving for special occasions, like weddings. The remainder of her time is spent driving customers to appointments around town.

Klinger said she enjoys talking with her customers, if that’s what they want to do during the 45-minute ride to or from the airport or shorter rides around town. She said she always knows by their body lan-

over the next year and revisit where they are and where to go next. What advice would you give others entering your industry?

Pay attention to what people want and listen closely. That way you learn how to assist them in reaching their goals. Remember we were in the startup position once and what it was like. Encourage people; we all need encouragement.

www.linkedin.com/in/dianewoodland-2344707a

What advice would you give others entering your industry?

Lean on others that have helped pave the way before you! So many entrepreneurs are happy to offer advice and guidance. It can be scary and incredibly intimidating trying to figure it all out alone.

Where do you see yourself professionally in the next five years?

I’m hoping Messy Baby Co. will be a well-known brand with a much larger scale of products to offer, bringing a sense of humor to the everyday struggles we face as parents. www.messybabyco.com

guage if they’d prefer to read or nap.

“I can connect with all age groups,” she said. “I feel gratified when I have repeat customers, because I know they can trust me to be early and get them to their destination safely.”

www.citygaltransportation.com

Owner | City Gal Transportation

Owner | Messy Baby Co.

LaShonda Prim

LaShonda Prim founded Dazzling Divas Empowering Women Toward Success, a 501 (c) (3) dedicated to women’s empowerment and helping girls to know their worth. The group offers a variety of programs and services, including youth events and mentorships, retreats and conferences aimed at single mothers, and vision board parties. She is also the CEO and owner of Dream Essentials by LaShonda Renee, a handmade, all-natural skin and body care line. LaShonda holds a B.A. in Business Administration with a concentration in Management.

In addition, LaShonda is a motivational speaker offering meaningful, impactful messages drawn from personal experi-

Marsha Goodman

Marsha Goodman is an oil painter specializing in landscapes, though her work includes a variety of subjects. She received her M.A. in Art Education from Brooklyn College. Marsha is a member of the Oil Painters of America and has been featured in the book “How Did You Paint That? 100 Ways to Paint Flowers and Gardens.” Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?

When I was a teenager, I sat on my stoop and painted the bricks of my rowhouse one by one. I fell in love with painting at that time. How do you empower other women?

For 20 years, I have painted in a studio with many painters. I often

ence. Her goal is to transform one million lives, one woman at a time. Hoping to inspire and motivate women to overcome their challenges and doubts, she has written and co-authored multiple books, including “Journey Through the Eyes of a Teen Mom,” and “Transformed by Grace.” Her most recent book project is “Slay the Day,” a journal intended to help young women and girls express themselves and set positive, attainable goals.

www.lashondaprim.com/home

Tammara

Tillman

share my techniques and sometimes I seek out other painters’ techniques. What advice would you give to others entering your industry?

Persistence is the most important trait to have.

Where do you see yourself professionally in the next five years?

I have begun to sell my paintings and I can see my name becoming more well-known. I may start to tutor other painters. www. koshart.artspan.com/home

Syble W. Livingston

Syble W. Livingston is a beauty consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics and a consultant with Paparazzi Accessories. Her goal is to encourage women to have a sense of self-worth, share opportunities and resources, and empower women to control their own lives within or outside the home. Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?

My mother, Gwen Reed, was a great influence in my career choice of business management. I grew up in a business environment learning family values, Christianity, structure, leadership skills, and good work ethics.

What advice would you give others entering your industry?

Tammara Tillman is a hip-hop artist, entrepreneur, and advocate. She has been performing and emceeing in Queens and the surrounding areas for nearly 50 years under stage names such as MC Shorty Tee, Lace, and EmpRest Q. As MC Shorty Tee, she is recognized as part of the first generation of female MCs to work in Queens. Tammara received her B.A. in Communication and Media Studies from SUNY Empire State College in 2017. Recently, Tammara has been focusing her efforts on advocacy. Mental health awareness is a cause close to her heart, as her eldest daughter’s struggles in that area led to her untimely death. She also strives to raise awareness of hydrocephalus, a congenital condition that affects approximately one in 1,000 births. Tammara’s granddaughter was diagnosed with the condition and is currently thriving after multiple brain surgeries. The Hydrocephalus Association of NYC is working to find a cure with the support of advocates like Tammara. www.linkedin.com/in/tammara-akamc-shortytee-tillman-22698a49/

Prioritize excellent customer service to build loyalty, engage with your followers through social media, respond promptly to inquiries and address concerns effectively, and adapt your strategies based on insights gained. Most importantly, stay consistent with your business. No one ever became a success without taking chances. You have a purpose in life. Never give up on your journey! Celebrate every single milestone.

Where do you see yourself professionally in the next five years?

I plan to continue as an entrepreneur in Mary Kay cosmetics and the e-commerce business. In 2025, I see myself moving towards my goals expanding and branding my e-commerce business. As a woman entrepreneur, I’ve always been driven by a relentless curiosity and a deep desire to implement and create something meaningful from my vision of business.

www.instagram.com/syblivingstongems

Musician | Lex Enterprises, Inc.

Painter | Koshart

Sara E. Rugg

Project Manager | Angeion Group

Sara E. Rugg serves as a project manager with Angeion Group, a company responsible for class-action lawsuits. Her role entails coordinating with counsel, class members, and stakeholders, as well as balancing court mandates with organizational efficiency. With a deep understanding of legal frameworks, Sara is dedicated to excellence in settlement administration.

Leveraging skills in marketing, communications, class action settlement administration, and project management, Sara facilitates new business growth while optimizing existing operations. These competencies, honed over recent years, underscore her commitment to delivering innovative solutions, particularly when paired with her recent certification as a Google Digital Sales Partner. www.angeiongroup.com

Colleen Middleton

Colleen Middleton is a dedicated Realtor® with Northrop Realty, bringing nearly 40 years of real estate experience to buyers and sellers throughout Catonsville, Baltimore, and surrounding counties. She began her career in 1987 in the title industry before transitioning to real estate in 2006. Colleen quickly established herself as a top performer, ranking in the Top 100 agents at her former brokerage and becoming part of her Ellicott City office’s No. 1 team for four consecutive years. Since joining

Northrop Realty in 2021, Colleen has consistently ranked among the Top 20 agents within the brokerage, thanks to the resources and support provided by her team.

Colleen always puts her clients’ needs first, treating them with the same respect and care she would expect for herself. She values the relationships she builds with her clients, many of whom become lifelong friends. Her clients appreciate her honesty, integrity, and sincere dedication to making their real estate

Susan Griffin Poole

Susan Griffin Poole is the vice president of global IT development at Xerox, where she leads conversations about shaping ambitions and identifying pathways toward greater impact. Susan received her MBA from Fayetteville University and holds a variety of certification, including Xerox Black Belt. Her continued success in leadership and management of complex projects has led to her serving as a keynote speaker at an industry summit.

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?

My mother instilled perseverance, curiosity, and a strong work ethic. She encouraged me to explore technology, problem-solving, and continuous

learning. Her resilience and adaptability inspired me to approach challenges with determination, shaping my passion for innovation and impact. How do you empower other women?

I am passionate about creating opportunities, providing mentorship, and advocating for inclusivity. I mentor newcomers, offer career guidance, and encourage leadership. I support diversity initiatives, fostering collaboration and a culture where women thrive and succeed in tech careers.

experience as smooth and successful as possible, from initial negotiations to post-settlement support.

A longtime resident of Catonsville, Colleen understands the local market and has a deep connection to the community. She is passionate about helping her clients achieve their real estate goals, whether buying or selling, and is always available to lend her expertise. Outside of real estate, Colleen enjoys spending time with her family and values the importance of loyalty, trust, and integrity in all of her relationships. www.colleenmiddleton. northroprealty.com

Leverage your unique perspective, foster relationships with mentors, and keep advancing your technical expertise. Be resilient, advocate for yourself, seek leadership roles, and recognize that diversity drives innovation.

Where do you see yourself professionally in the next five years?

I see myself in a continued executive leadership role, advocating for diversity and inclusion in IT, mentoring women, driving innovation, and contributing to strategic decisions that shape the future of technology and empower underrepresented voices.

What advice would you give others entering your industry?

www.linkedin.com/in/susan-poolemba-ba6276172

Realtor® | Northrop Realty

Vice President, Global IT Development | Xerox

Dr. Katie Eastman

“Uplifting:

Inspiring Stories of Loss, Change, and Growth”

Lauren Kay

Loss is a part of our everyday lives. Disappointments when life doesn’t happen the way we want it to can prevent us from living our best lives. If only we could learn to handle the less obvious, intangible “little losses,” then we would have the tools to manage the types of changes that cause us major distress. Discover the secrets of balanced peaceful living Dr. Eastman has found through major contributions in the fields of holistic health and loss.

Dr. Eastman’s Re-Create process is a blueprint for navigating loss. It provides the reader with tools for managing small or large changes, providing reflection questions that allow you to carefully consider what is most important to you and to make conscious changes to improve your life.

The book is a reminder that grief and change aren’t linear. These phases, like the ever-changing seasons, don’t follow a set pattern. You can enter any phase at any time, allowing these reflection questions to guide you as needed. Humans are remarkably bright creatures even when we don’t generally feel good about our current situation.

“The Power in Permission: Stepping Out of What Now & Into What’s Next After a Toxic Relationship”

The purpose of this workbook is to empower women in rediscovering their inner power and support them in the journey of re-building the wounded relationship with themselves after experiencing a toxic relationship. The Power in Permission workbook guides readers in an interactive experience of specific steps in how to step into the authentic life they dream of after a season of pain.

Stephanie Kraemer

Angel Silva “Grandma’s Recipes”

This collection of family recipes is ideal for anyone making comforting, homecooked food.

“Nauti Girl: Navigating my Naked Truth from Trauma to Triumph”

Uncover your truth. Embrace your journey. Navigate your healing. What if the trauma you’ve experienced isn’t something to “get over” but rather a powerful part of your story, shaping you in ways you never imagined? “In Nauti Girl,” Stephanie bares her soul, sharing raw and vulnerable stories from her own life to help readers reframe trauma as a pathway to healing, growth, and self-discovery.

Through a blend of personal memoir, reflective insights, and suggested activities, “Nauti Girl” invites you to stop running from the pain and instead lean into it. Using the vast and unpredictable sea as a metaphor, Stephanie shows us how life’s most turbulent moments offer profound lessons – if we’re willing to listen.

This isn’t a typical self-help book with a step-by-step recovery plan. Instead, it’s an honest exploration of what it means to be human: how we can embrace the scars and messiness of our lives and learn to sail forward despite the storms. Through her candid storytelling, Stephanie offers a refreshing perspective on trauma, resilience, and the courage it takes to embrace our true selves.

Set sail today – your healing journey awaits.

Tiphany Young

“Breaking free from Codependency: the people pleasing prison”

In “Breaking Free from Codependency,” Tiphany Young shares her inspiring journey of overcoming people-pleasing and discovering her authentic self. This transformative guidebook offers key takeaways such as practical strategies to break free from codependent relationships, effective techniques for setting healthy boundaries, empowering exercises to reconnect with your inner child, and inspiring stories of resilience and growth. Unlock your potential and identify and challenge negative self-talk, build confidence and self-worth, develop assertiveness and communication skills, and cultivate self-love and self-care. Join the journey and embark on a life-changing path to discover your authentic voice, reclaim your power and autonomy, and become unstoppable in pursuing your dreams. Get Ready to Break Free!

Chad E. Henry & Dakota A. Tallman “Ruthless the Elf: Keeper of the Naughty List”

In the town of Point Pleasant, there lives a girl named Ruthless who has a reputation for being mean. Her rumored ruthlessness is so widespread that it reaches the far corners of the world, including the North Pole. When Santa Claus hears about Ruthless, he instructs two of his head elves to go to Point Pleasant to invite Ruthless to the North Pole to be the keeper of the Naughty List. While in the North Pole, Ruthless is given a lesson on kindness. “Ruthless the Elf: Keeper of the Naughty List” features beautiful illustrations and a powerful message for children of all ages on the importance of being kind.

Minda Harts “Talk to Me Nice: The Seven Trust Languages for a Better Workplace”

We are living in a world of broken trust, especially in the workplace. Employees have heard too many empty promises and are unmotivated. Managers are scrambling to keep eyes on direct reports in demanding environments. Nobody knows how to talk to one another. Trust is the central pillar of any functioning workplace. But without it too many of us are unhappy, fed up, and ready to walk out the door.

Minda Harts knows from years of experience as a highly sought-after workplace consultant how a lack of trust between colleagues, managers, and executive leaders is bad for business and our own professional well-being. That’s where the seven workplace trust languages come into play. Earning trust is different for every one of us. Some respond well to verbal affirmations of their contributions, while others need visibility to see how business decisions are made. By understanding the seven languages of trust—transparency, security, demonstration, feedback, acknowledgment, sensitivity, and follow-through—we can all learn to navigate conflict, be more productive, and communicate more effectively.

In Talk to Me Nice, you’ll learn what workplace trust languages work for you and how to show colleagues, managers, and direct reports that they are valued. When we’re talking one another’s languages, we can rebuild a more equitable, sustainable, and profitable workplace that works for us all.

Corner BOOK

Background Photo: Angello Pro, Unsplash

Corner BOOK

Janice Burt

“Kicking the People-Pleasing Habit: A 6-Step Approach”

• Do you have a hard time saying “no” and setting boundaries?

• Are you constantly worried about what other people will think about you?

• Do you feel like you doing everything for everyone at the expense of your own well-being?

• Do you struggle with feelings of low self-confidence and not being good enough?

If you’ve answered yes to some of these questions, you may have some people-pleasing tendencies. People pleasing may seem harmless at first glance, but if you dig down deep, you will find that it prevents you from living the exciting, authentic life you were meant to live.

As a recovering people pleaser, Janice lays out a 6-step approach that she used in her own life to gain freedom from this disease to please. After learning and implementing this approach in your own life, you will experience life without the masks, the burnout, and the stress that is so common to people pleasers.

Michele Meza Contributing Author

“Dream Big Do Bigger”

Are you Dreaming BIG? Is that all you’re doing? Have you turned your dreams into actionable steps?

This book is all about accountability and turning your dreams into reality.

It’s one thing to dream BIG, but another to do even BIGGER! Inside this book, you are provided strategic methods and guidance to truly create the life and business you want to lead and live. We carefully and intentionally selected women experts from around the world to contribute to the Dream Big Do Bigger movement for women.

There is no perfect time to start but right now! Going small is easy and boring, but doing BIGGER requires stepping out of your comfort zone, leaning into your feminine power, gaining knowledge, investing in yourself, and understanding the importance of never giving up on your dream.

By dreaming BIG and doing BIGGER, you are challenging yourself to drop all limiting beliefs, self-sabotage, and imposter syndrome and really focus on what it takes to make BIGGER steps!

Karen R. Mertes

“Plaintiff 101: The Black Book of Inside Information Your Lawyer Will Want You to Know”

As her life hung in the balance after a tragic car accident caused by a drunk driver, Karen Mertes vowed that if she survived, she would spend the rest of her life helping others. Despite sustaining a traumatic brain injury, she is the founder and president of Fulfill Your Destiny, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to helping people whose careers have been altered by injury or other unforeseen circumstances. This book is to help other personal injury survivors who are contemplating, or already involved in, litigation. Karen is hopeful that plaintiffs’ attorneys will see the benefit of providing this book as a teaching tool to their clients so as a team you can win your case!

AAziana Rivera

Inventor

ziana Rivera is the inventor of the Cassandra Shoe, which transitions from a flat shoe to a heeled one with a simple flick. Frustrated by having to carry multiple pairs of shoes with her all day or being forced to stop and change from daytime to evening shoes, Aziana developed a shoe that is appropriate for any setting. The two-in-one Cassandra Shoe means that women no longer have to choose between casual flats and elegant heels, allowing them to go from a relaxed outfit to eveningwear and back again without having to interrupt their schedules.

The Cassandra Shoe is named in memory of Aziana’s adoptive mother, and she is working on another product that she plans to name in memory of her adoptive father, James. Because she was adopted at the age of 10, Aziana prioritizes philanthropy and community support and hopes that her story will inspire other women facing similar struggles. She donates a portion of the proceeds from the Cassandra Shoe to local organizations in order to help those who are trying to make better lives for themselves.

Two organizations that Aziana chooses to support are Allies for Health and Wellbeing and Central Outreach Wellness Center. Both clinics are located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and focus on providing care to the LGBTQIA+ community in a bias-free and culturally sensitive way. Aziana has personal experience with both companies, in part due to being born with an intersex condition. She feels it is important to give back to those who have helped her, to ensure that they are able to continue to provide services to others in the same situation. www.cassandrashoe.com

Tamu Chambers

Professor

Hudson Valley Community College

Tamu Chambers is a professor of sociology at Hudson Valley Community College. She also teaches courses on cultural diversity in American society, African history, and African American history. She received her M.A. in the History of Africa and her M.S. in Women’s Studies. Tamu’s published works include “21st-Century Anthology: Higher Education Pride Purpose and Passion - Understanding and Overcoming Adversity, Volume 1.”

How did you get started in your field/industry?

During college I worked as a professional model and makeup artist. I earned my B.S. in Business Administration and Marketing from the College of Saint Rose, then took a position

with Aetna. I earned my master’s at SUNY Albany and studied at Oxford College in England. I also founded Image Consultant International Modeling Agency.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career?

Overcoming cultural differences, as well as serious issues like racism.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today?

Gender equality, the pay gap, the slow process of earning success. Madeleine Albright wrote, “There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women.”

What strategies have helped you succeed in your work?

Having the opportunity to foster hope for the betterment of society. As a professor in sociology and history, enhancing critical thinking and promoting understanding of differences.

www.theprofessorschambers.com

VIPs P.O.W.E.R.

Diane Woodland-Dawson

Woodland Associates

ACCOUNTING

Bookkeeper Tappahannock, VA

Blaque V. Diamond

Basic Blaque, LLC

COACHING

CEO, Social Worker,

Author, Parent Coach Essex, MD

Diane Merrill-Wigginton Jeweled Dagger Publishing LITERATURE

Author Kalispell, MT

Melisa E. Natapraya MK Elite Fittness HEALTH AND FITNESS

Trainer Columbia, MD

Janet A. DeMaria Skadoosie

APPAREL AND FASHION Owner Placerville, CA

Tammy McLaughlin Stone County Recovery Center

HEALTHCARE CPS Reeds Spring, MO

Jasmin Reese

Jasmin Reese Interiors

INTERIOR DESIGN

Interior Designer Chicago, IL

Lauren Kay Kay Coaching LIFE COACHING Author Hugo, MN

Shirley Ann Tracy Wordwrights JOURNALISM Editor Wells River, VT

Susan D. Obregon

Timeless Moments by Design

EVENT PLANNING Owner San Antonio, TX

Christel F. Feather

Mind Over Medic

MENTAL HEALTH CARE Founder Reedsville, WV

Nanci A. Aronson

Sunshine Senior Placement

HEALTHCARE

Number One

Senior Advisor Parkland, FL

Tiffany Moore, Ph.D. Moore Affordable Credit

FINANCIAL SERVICES CEO Milwaulkee, WI

Tammara Tillman

Lex Enterprises, Inc.

ENTERTAINMENT

Musician, Owner, Mental Health Advocate Brooklyn, NY

Yaya Diamond Red Hot Reality Ent., LLC ENTERTAINMENT Owner North Port, FL

Stephanie Oakey Health Career CERTS HEALTHCARE Author, Lead Student Support Specialist Bryson City, NC

Alison Vaughn Jackets for Jobs NONPROFIT

CEO, Celebrating 25 Years Detroit, MI

Lechaun Milton HEALTHCARE CNA East Hartford, CT

Grace B. Boykin

Grace Boykin Media, LLC PUBLISHING

Author Milton, FL

Ruth Ann Wagner CONSULTING Business Development Consultant Wayne, PA

Kelly Anne Roscamp My Boojee Pony EQUESTRIAN Owner Lakeside, CA

Background Photo: Dustin Humes, Unsplash

Martha Ramos Owner

Martha Ramos founded Vitality Lifestyle and Wellness in 2019. Coping with diagnoses of the autoimmune diseases psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis while entering perimenopause, her passion for improving health and well-being became personal. This amplified the frustration Martha faced as a family nurse practitioner at a primary care practice, where she was forced to treat sick patients in short and restricted appointment times, only to rarely see their health improve.

Asking herself if she was really helping her patients or just prescribing medications to treat symptoms, Martha felt there had to be a better way to reach patients on a deeper, more effective level. Over time, she concluded that she could have a greater impact on patient health by practicing lifestyle and preventative medicine. These lifestyle interventions are evidenced-based and designed to address behaviors related to nutrition, physical activity, stress management, sleep, social support, and environmental exposures.

A first-generation Mexican American, Martha grew up in Midland, Texas. She obtained her associate degree in Nursing at Midland Community College and both her bachelor’s and master’s in nursing at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, Texas. Martha is board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and licensed by the state of Texas in Family Practice. She is passionate about empowering patients to make significant lifestyle changes to improve outcomes, help manage chronic health issues, and enhance overall well-being with the goal of healing the mind, body, and spirit. www.vitalitylifestyle.net

Laura Toto Mom, Inventor, & Parenting Problem-Solver

Laura Toto is a mom of six, an entrepreneur, and the inventor of Naked No More® and the Stay Put Changing Pad Cover, two patented products designed to make parenting just a little bit easier. Based in Lincoln University, Pennsylvania, Laura knows firsthand the daily challenges parents and caregivers face—because she’s lived them! Her mission? To create practical, sanity-saving solutions that tackle real-life parenting struggles head-on.

Like many great inventions, Naked No More® was born out of necessity. After dealing with one too many surprise diaper removals and pajama-stripping escapades during naps and bedtime, Laura decided enough was enough. She created a simple yet effective solution that keeps little ones dressed and diapered when they should be sleeping, helping parents avoid those middle-of-the-night messes and giving everyone a little more peace (and sleep!).

But she didn’t stop there. Any parent who has wrestled with a squirming baby on a changing table knows how frustrating diaper changes can be. Determined to make this everyday task smoother, Laura developed the Stay Put Changing Pad Cover, a smart, secure cover that helps keep little ones still during diaper changes. No more wrestling, no more frustration—just a simple way to keep diaper duty under control. Laura’s success as an inventor and entrepreneur stems from her firsthand parenting experience and her ability to identify real-world problems that need solving. Her products aren’t just ideas— they’re practical tools that parents everywhere can rely on. By combining creativity, innovation, and a deep understanding of what families truly need, Laura has built a brand that is making a tangible difference in the lives of parents and caregivers.

When she’s not busy running her business, Laura is fully immersed in family life, juggling the joyful chaos of raising six children. Her journey as both a mom and an entrepreneur is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of turning parenting challenges into opportunities.

Thanks to Laura Toto, diaper-ditching battles and diaper-changing struggles are a thing of the past. Through Naked No More® and the Stay Put Changing Pad Cover, she’s helping families everywhere reclaim a little more sanity—one dressed, still diapered, and slightly-less-wiggly child at a time!

Be sure to check out our expanded line (including day wear and pajama styles!)

Naptime, Bedtime or ANYTIME ... we have you covered! (Pun very much intended!)

Do you struggle to keep your little one in place during diaper changes? Not anymore!

With the Stay Put Changing Pad Cover, no more wrestling during diaper changes! Our soft, strong, elastic strap keeps infants through toddlers comfortably secured! Strap fits perfectly over your child’s chest area to prevent sitting up while you can easily access the diaper and get the job done!

Sanya Kerney

Sanya Kerney founded Kiddies Korner, LLC in 2014, inspired by the impact that education had on her life and by her love of working with children. The organization has partnered with military families, the YMCA, and other groups to provide quality educa tion and childcare. Sanya has been recognized with awards from the San Diego district supervisor and the Power Woman Award from India Global USA.

Initially from Kashmir, Sanya was forced to leave

as a young person due to military conflict. When her family relocated to a new state where English was less common, she struggled to feel comfortable with the language. This inequity in the educational system inspired her passion for teaching.

While pursuing her M.A. in English, she realized that she also loved working with children and became determined to have a lasting impact.

Sanya moved to the United States in 1997 and began work as a teaching assistant at a daycare. She held a variety of education-

www.linkedin.com/in/ sanya-kerney-b937782b3 Founder |

al positions, including daycare center director, before becoming a teacher at a Montessori-style school. Here, she had the opportunity to work as a preschool teacher with her daughter, which reinforced her commitment to early childhood education.

Encouraged by her husband Ashwani and her daughter Gia, Sanya founded Kiddies Korner with the intention of instilling resilience, empathy, and kindness in the students. Their motto is “Where kids love to learn.” Additionally, Sanya hopes that by providing quality childcare, she will be able to empower other women to pursue their own dreams.

Living Proof That Dreams Don’t Have An Age Limit

Dreams don’t have a shelf life; they are waiting for you to make them real. This truth stands at the heart of one author’s remarkable journey from a busy mother to an award-winning novelist. Diane Merrill Wigginton’s story isn’t just about writing books, it is about having the courage to act on a long-buried dream and finding that success can happen at any stage of life.

At the age of 50, when most of her friends were considering retirement, Diane was crafting her first novel. Today, at the age of 62, she is just hitting her stride - with six novels, a children’s book, and eighteen Independent Book Awards, Diane is living proof that success doesn’t need to follow a conventional timeline.

Born in Riverside, California in 1963, Diane’s passion for storytelling began in her childhood. Spending her summers on her grandparents’ Idaho ranch helped shape her narrative voice and sparked her creative spirit. There, surrounded by the rich scenery of the American west, she discovered the power of storytelling and dreamed of becoming an author.

However, life led Diane down a different path. In 1998, she married David Wigginton. Together they created a blended, busy household of six children - a sort of real life “Yours, Mine, and Ours.” Entrenched in raising kids, her aspirations laid dormant as she played the role of mom – shuttling kids around, making family dinners, and attending parent-teacher conferences. But they never disappeared.

Finally, when Diane was about to turn 50 and her kids were almost all on their own, she seized the moment and finally wrote “Angelina’s Secret,” the first book in her Jeweled Dagger Series. She brought decades of lived experience to the page and the publishing industry noticed. Years later, her work spans historical romance, suspense, and children’s literature, each genre allowing her to explore different facets of human nature. “A Compromising Position” struck a particular chord with readers, earning multiple awards and praise from International Writers Inspiring Change as “A classic romance with all the bells and whistles.”

In 2018, the Wiggintons made a bold move to Kalispell, Montana. Near Glacier National Park, they found more than just stunning views – they discovered a new chapter in life. The dramatic landscapes and quiet mornings became part of Diane’s creative process, infusing fresh energy into her writing. Her upcoming thriller, “The Magician Killer,” set for release in May 2025, represents this evolution. The Wishing Shelf already calls it “A smartly plotted thriller with a strong female protagonist to root for.” Through her partnership with Franklin Publishers,

Diane’s stories are finding their way to more readers than ever. Between writing sessions, 11 grandchildren keep Diane firmly grounded in what matters most. They remind her daily that while words on a page are important, it’s the stories we live that count most. Each visit, each shared moment, adds another layer of understanding and authenticity to her writing.

Drawing on her experience, Diane has become a fixture in her local literary community, mentoring writers at events throughout Montana. She shares her story, encouraging aspiring authors to chase their dream - no matter how old or young they are.

Diane’s journey from dreaming mom to acclaimed author proves that the best chapters in life may be ahead of you. The years before she became an author weren’t spent waiting – they were spent gathering. Every childhood memory, every family dinner, every crisis managed, every joy celebrated became part of a rich tapestry of experience. Now when she sits at her desk to write, Diane draws from a well of recollections and insights that only time could fill. The publishing industry is always looking for young, emerging talent, but she’s demonstrated that sometimes wisdom, passion, and perseverance can create the most extraordinary stories of all.

As she continues crafting her next masterpiece, one thing is certain—Diane is not just writing books; she is crafting a legacy that will inspire generations to come and challenging others to never give up. Her message to anyone dreaming for a new beginning is “Stop waiting for ‘That Right Moment’ because that moment is ‘Now!’”

EMPOWERED

Abegayle Marie Goddessing Universally HOLISTIC LIFE COACH

Abigail R. Unfred Revenant Voices Podcast OWNER, ENTREPRENEUR

Aire Stillman

AES Lifestyle Coaching AUTHOR, HOST, MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER

Alina Petra Alina Petra LLC JEWELER

Alison Vaughn Jackets for Jobs PRESIDENT, CEO, AUTHOR

Amanda Heagy City Barbeque

RESTAURANT GUIDE

Amber White Circle of Life CONTRACTOR/CAREGIVER

Amity Santa Lucia

Amity Santa Lucia MODEL, ACTRESS

Ana Maria Figueroa Mavi Cafe OWNER, OPERATOR

Ananda M. Davis-Wright

Atlantic City Board of EducationUptown School Complex PRINCIPAL

Andrea Matheny Aramark CHEF

Andrea B. Wilson

Hayward Unified School District COUNSELOR SUPERVISOR

Angela Angell Angell Books AUTHOR, REAL ESTATE AGENT

Angela C. Lerro

ANGELA LERRO

HOLISTIC HEALTH PRACTITIONER

Angela Elaine Taylor

The Queen Goddess Vases, LLC

ARTIST, DESIGNER

Anita Lain Stigler Freelancer MODEL, CAREGIVER

Ann Williams

Social Security Administration COMPUTER OPERATOR

Artemese Evans Wicker

Ardysslife HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACH

Aurea Galler

Athenian Assisted Living RETIRED ADMINISTRATOR

Aurora Threats

Borealis Entertainment, LLC CEO

Aziana Rivera

Cassandra FOUNDER

Beth Camac Main Street Cafe OWNER

Bettina Reisenauer-Grimsley

Berkshire Hathaway Home

Services Tampa Properties REALTOR®

Billie Jo “BJ” Fletcher

BJ’s Country Buffet OWNER, OPERATOR

Blaque Diamond

Baltimore City Department of Social Services EMPLOYEE TRAINING SPEO

Bobbie Kristine Carlyle Bobbie Carlyle Sculpture OWNER, ARTIST

Bobbie M. Kidwell

United States Postal Service RETIRED POSTAL WORKER

Brenda Kemp

Main Stay Solutions

PROPERTY AND FACILITY MANAGER

Brenda P. Wallace CPEO, LLC

CERTIFIED CLINICAL

PASTORAL EDUCATOR

Brittany Farley

Brittany Farley LIAISON

Brittany L. Pelletier

Littleton Regional Healthcare OFFICE MANAGER

Candace M. Butler

CB Diversified Consulting Services

OWNER, BUSINESS COACH, LIFE COACH

Carolyn R. Jenkins

Carolyn Jenkins Agency CASTING PRODUCER

Cenequa Nikkole Gaston

I Am Your Motivation LIFE AND STYLE COACH

Cheryl E. Williams Fundamentals for Foster Care FOUNDER, LIFE COACH, CAREGIVER

Christel F. Feather Mind Over Medic FOUNDER

Christine Rudolph Globe Life Liberty National SUPERVISING AGENT

Cindi Baney

First Horizon Corporation TALENT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Cindy Mahealani Sellers

Angel Farms Cleanse and Rejuvenating Center FOUNDER, OWNER

Colleen G. Middleton Northrop Realty REALTOR®

Crystal Garrett Centra

PATIENT ACCESS

Cynthia J. Ward Compassion’s Outreach Ministry MINISTER, AUTHOR

Dakota Alexis Tallman C & D Stories

CO-OWNER, SOCIAL WORKER

Dana M. Ashford

Dana M. Ashford, M.Ed. SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING SPECIALIST

Dana S. Diaz

Dana S. Diaz

AUTHOR, NARCISSISTIC ABUSE EXPERT AND SPEAKER

Dana T. Bradley

Dana Bradley HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACH

Danealle Moran-Orcutt

Danealle Moran-Orcutt SINGER

Daniella Ordonez

Tell Your Story Coaching CEO, AUTHOR, STORY CREATION COACH

Danielle Young

Inspired Action Wellness FOUNDER & CEO

Davina Bussey

Davina Music Earth Rhythms SONG WRITER, PRODUCER, SOUND ENGINEER

Dawn Mattera Corsi Your Dolce Vita AUTHOR, SPEAKER, COACH

Dawne Christine

Dawne Christine AUTHOR, MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTOR, MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCATE

DeAnn M. Marcell

Boss Babes Empower, Monkeys and Mansions ENTREPRENEUR, PHILANTHROPIST, ACTRESS, MONKEY TRAINER

Deanna L. Miller One Nexus Group U.S. DIRECTOR OF DEALER STANDARDS

Debbie Feinberg Jumpstart OWNER

Dee Ann Summers Summers in Italy CEO

Delia A. Gonzalez

We Will All Win, LLC LMSW, CERTIFIED LIFE COACH

Demetria Green

Tastee Treets by Dee OWNER, BAKER

Denicia Echiribel DE California, LLC OWNER, DESIGNER

Denise Harris

Healing Hearts Safety Services OWNER

EMPOWERED

Diana B. Lawrence

Dr. World Productions PRESIDENT, FOUNDER

Dolly A. Colby

Refined M.D. RN, BSN

Doyin Fashakin

Doyin Fash Events LEAD EVENT PLANNER, CEO

Dree Berry

San Diego Black Professionals SOCIAL ENGINEER

Ebony N. McMillan

Morethanragz BOUTIQUE OWNER

Eileen McCaughern Retired Greyhounds as Pets FOUNDER

Elizabeth Anderson Anderson’s Community Healthcare CEO, DIRECTOR OF NURSING

Estyn Elan

Estyn Elan Studio CEO

Evelyn D. Hemphill

Evelyn the Advocate, LLC CEO

Faith Thomas AGS Advantage BUSINESS OWNER

Frances Montagnino Kearney Bank VICE PRESIDENT OF EDUCATION AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Fuada Zena Velic Accounting at All Cost, Inc. OWNER

Gabrielle L. Brainard

Gabrielle L. Brainard, LCSW TRAUMA THERAPIST

Glenda Baker

Parallel Productions OWNER, FILM PRODUCER, SONGWRITER

Gloria delCarmen Rodriguez RF/CommunicAD PRESIDENT, CEO

Grace B. Boykin

Grace Boykin Media, LLC VICE PRESIDENT

Haley Mazanec

Hayley Mazanec ACTRESS, MODEL, AUTHOR, SALESPERSON

Heather Dzubinski

Paradise Beach Company, Paradise Beach Jewelry OWNER, DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNER

Heather Scott

Heather’s Pet Care LLC BUSINESS OWNER

Hope Johnson NURSE

Immaculada A. Moronta Empyreal, LLC CEO

Iolanda J. Logan

Blue Moon Equestrian and Heart to Hooves Foundation OWNER, FOUNDER

Jada L. Sullivan

Majestic Royalty Incorporated FOUNDER

Jaime Robinson Insight Mind Psychotherapy Corp. MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER

Jane Wise Jane Wise Arts ARTIST

Jane Leslie Gordon

Jane Gordon, PLLC CEO

Janet L. Alden-Rahi Two Eleven Advisors FOUNDER, CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER

Jasmine Hawkins Hawkins Divine Print OWNER

Jennifer Perez Shorepoint NURSE

Jennifer A. Jones

Defense Acquisition, Inc. (DAI) PROPOSAL COORDINATION MANAGER

Jennifer A. Wills

Model Me Phototherapy MODEL

Jennifer L. Perri SHERO Life and Empowering Coaching FOUNDER, CEO

Jess White Vision Staffing, LLC HEALTHCARE

Jessica Johnson Jessica Johnson AUTHOR

Jessica Smith

Modern Horizon Chamber of Commerce FOUNDER

Jessica Stavale The Fascia Movement, Inc. DOCTOR OF FASCIA MEDICINE, DOCTOR OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST, AUTHOR, INVENTOR

Joan Vassos Bachelor Nation TELEVISION PRESENTER

Jocelyn Mull

Twenty Pearls CEO

Johanna Greeson University of Pennsylvania ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR

Joyce M. Anderson Avon

SALES AMBASSADOR

Joytika Mala

Valley Medical Center CLINICAL SUPERVISOR

Judy Harris

Judy Harris, Real Estate Broker REAL ESTATE BROKER

Kameela Gulley

Visions Education and Business Consulting, LLC CEO

Karen Vessella

Tavares Educational Center

SPECIAL EDUCATION DIRECTOR

Karen Wilson

Karen Wilson AUTHOR

Karen B. Jernigan One Step Closer Coalition FOUNDER, PRESIDENT

Karen M. Silk

William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty REAL ESTATE BROKER

Karina Maria Boil Elite Empress 888, Inc. CEO, LIFE COACH

Katherine Mary Enberg WiLd Recess, LLC OWNER

Kathryn B. Shorey-Munro Shorey and Associates OWNER

Katie Day Winchenbach Motorola Solutions, Inc./ Lead Fearlessly ATTORNEY, PODCAST HOST

Kay Kizer

Kay’s Carry On FOUNDER

Kay Earlene Kienast Grow Powerful CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER

Keisha M. Crossland Walmart HR SENIOR MANAGER

Kellie Fitzgerald IbbiLane Press OWNER, ENTREPRENEUR, LEAD CREATIVE VISIONARY

Kelly Yabsley Messy Baby Co. OWNER, CREATOR

Kelly Anne Roscamp My Boojee Pony OWNER, INVENTOR

Kendrea Atkins St Sabina Martin Luther King Outreach Center

CAREER SERVICE MANAGER

Kerry McCarthy

Canadian Learning Supply Inc. OWNER

Kim Deol REALTOR®

EMPOWERED

Kim Keck

Love Is the Answer

ENTREPRENEUR, AUTHOR

Kim Nielsen

Creative Coaching and Actorvention, LLC

FOUNDER, EXECUTIVE COACH

Kimberly Bailey One World Realty of Sarasota CEO, BROKER

Kimberly Hills Savin Funeral Home INTERN

Kimberly Kathleen Empowerment Through Entrepreneurship, LLC CEO, FOUNDER

Kimberly Sears Amp Beauty, LLC

DISABLED MODEL

Kimberly V. Porter Kids Company Academy

EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT

EDUCATOR, AUTHOR, SINGER

Kristen Seneca

KaleidaSouLArt LLC & KaleidaSouldier Podcast

PHOTOGRAPHER- CUSTOM ARTIST-PODCASTER

Kristen L. Poe

Poe Holistic Health OWNER, CEO

Kristin Bruce How to Be Happy FOUNDER

Kristina D. Burn

University Eye Specialist SITE MANAGER, OPTICIAN

Kymberly I. Kaslar

Dreams and Drivers PRESIDENT, AUTHOR

Lacy Kelly

Pole and Aerial Fitness

ENTREPRENEUR

LaRonee Boards

DJ Snacks

OWNER, ON-AIR PERSONALITY, DJ, FOODISTA

LaShonda R. Prim

Dream Essentials Skin and Body Care OWNER

LaTisha Wells

The Modern Day 31 FEMININE ETIQUETTE COACH

Latoya Natalie Mcleary Haute Life World, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Laura J. Toto Diaper Diva Designs, LLC OWNER

Laura Lee Wolery

Laura Woley RETIRED DOCTOR, ENTERTAINER, ARTIST

Laurell T. Fletcher-Gayle Az Iz Inc. CEO

Lauren Kay Kay Koaching

AUTHOR, THERAPIST, EMPOWERMENT COACH

Laurie Gunter Mantz

Rhode Island Memory Cafes/ Dementia Training for Life FOUNDER, CEO

Leslie Feliciano

Service Sync Pro, LLC OWNER

Leslie Anne Washington J and L Seasoning Blends OWNER

Leslie F. Thomas

Leslie F. Thomas, Attorney at Law ATTORNEY

Letesta Redmon

Elohims Kingdom Church-EKC PASTOR, CEO, FOUNDER

Linda Joseph WIWA Organization FOUNDER, CEO

Linda R. Horton

Department of Health and Human Services

LABOR AND EMPLOYEE RELATIONS SPECIALIST

Linda Renee Byers

Gen3 Alliance and Production PRESIDENT, FOUNDER

Lisa Jacovsky

Diverse Ink Books AUTHOR

Lisa Soldano

Empire Wellness LEAD LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST

Lucinda Louise Carr PNC Financial Services LEGAL COORDINATOR

Lynn Chilton University of South Alabama PROFESSOR OF NURSING

Madeline Stewart Mustard Seed Market and Home DIRECTOR OF MERCHANDISING AND MARKETING

Maria Martinez Hair Cuts, Etc. COSMETOLOGIST, OWNER

Mariana Coker Marigold ARTIST, ACTRESS, FITNESS MODEL

Marie Layinu Marie Notary NOTARY PUBLIC FOR THE STATE OF TEXAS

Marilyn Palasty B&B Sweet Treats OWNER

Marion Gasby NIL ACCOUNT MANAGER/RETENTION

Martha Ramos Vitality Lifestyle and Wellness OWNER, FOUNDER

Mary D. DiSano Divinely Touched, Inc. PRESIDENT

Mary J. Drayton-Dennison Georgetown, SC Public Schools TEACHER’S ASSISTANT, RETIRED

Mazi Pilip Nassau County COUNTY LEGISLATOR

Meaghan C. Blackwell

Meaghan C. Blackwell MEDIA EXPERIENCE MANAGER, DRUMMER

Mia McCain Cook N.A AUTHOR

Michaellia Weber RMT, Inc. HR MANAGER

Michelle Paczesny Bossladies Creating Empires FOUNDER

Michelle Torres Garces, Grabler, & Le Brocq, P.C. CERTIFIED PARALEGAL

Mijan Owens International Music and Arts Connection FOUNDER, INTERNATIONAL RECORDING ARTIST

Millian M. Ugbomah

Millian Couture NY CEO, FOUNDER

Mindy Bess Dreams of Joy Foundation FOUNDER, GENERAL MANAGER

Misty L. Gnade

Donna Law Firm, P.C. BUSINESS OFFICE BOOKKEEPER

Movita Johnson Harrell MJH Global CEO

Nadine O. Shaw-Landesvatter

Shala’s Secrets CEO, OWNER

Nancy Mangano AUTHOR, SCREENWRITER, FASHION JOURNALIST

Niasha M. Clemons Don’t Be A Victim OWNER

Nicki Craver Sisters Tax and Financial Services OWNER

Nicole Watson A New Beginning PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Niki Rowe Cross STAAR Ministry Corp. CEO

EMPOWERED

Oksana Tademy

Legacy Lifestyle Enterprises CEO, BRAND STRATEGIST

Patrice A. Graves W & W Limo DRIVER, CREATOR

Patricia Kness

Patricia Kness Fine Art Studio ARTIST

Paulette M. Plishka

iLine Microsystems NATIONAL SALES DIRECTOR

Phoenix Henderson

Palm Springs Unified School District

DANCE TEACHER, COACH, YOUTUBE CONTENT CREATOR

Phyllice V. Johnson Cooper

Nevada Donor Network

BIRTH TISSUE CLINICAL TECHNOLOGIST

Phyllis D. Harrell Alliance for Community Peace CEO

Princess Mapp

Our Infinite Company EDUCATIONAL RETIREMENT SPECIALIST

Priscilla Luevano Luevano Tax Service TAX PREPARER

Prudence Hatchett

PH Counseling, LLC, Learn With Prudence OWNER, MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST

Rebecca Engle

Stitches and Stanzas TEACHER, AUTHOR

Reta Moser

Venice News Updates OWNER, CEO, WRITER

Rhonda Weber

Quality Reassurance, LLC OWNER, FOUNDER

Ritamarie A. Gammage

Fresh Hope Care DIRECTOR

Background

Robyn Sykes

H.E.L.P. Help Empower Less Fortunate FOUNDER

Roseann Sureda

Sureda Music Productions CEO

Ruth Ann Wagner

Carebridge Corporations

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Sandra Burgette Miller

Sandra Burgette Miller AUTHOR

Sandra Robertson N.A FARMER

Sanya Kerney

Kiddies Korner DIRECTOR, OWNER

Sara M. Lewis University of Missouri System AUDITOR

Sarah Coupland The Social Hive OWNER

Sarah Rosenblatt

Creative Counseling of Milwaukee PSYCHOTHERAPIST, POET

Sharon Arrindell

Inspired Wholeness Enterprise CEO, OWNER

Sharonda N. Black Freelancer HEALTH PRACTITIONER

Shawan Na

Healing Hearts Within, Mile High’s Talent FOUNDER, OWNER

Shawn E. Barnett

Primerica FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Sherri N. Hatton LCISD EDUCATOR

Shevonica M. Howell

Academy of Scholars FOUNDER, CEO

Sonia Ponchak Gulf ACCOUNTANT

Sonya Herburger

Sonya L. Herburger AUTHOR

Sparkles S. Harris Rise Beyond Foundation FOUNDER

Stephanie Hand Freelancer FREELANCER

Stephanie Kraemer She Rises Studios AUTHOR

Susan Griffin Poole Xerox VICE PRESIDENT, GLOBAL IT DEVELOPMENT

Syble W. Livingston Social Media Marketing CONSULTING

Sydney Celeste

Sydney Celeste HOST, SINGER, SONGWRITER

Sylvia Hoehns Wright

The Wright Scoop ARTIST CONSULTANT LECTURER WORDSMITH

Tamecca S. Rogers

Inspire Foundation FOUNDER, CEO, AUTHOR

Tammie Campbell Freelancer AUTHOR

Teri Rouse

Kids: Interventions and Direct Services MANAGING DIRECTOR, FOUNDER, CREATOR

Theresa Freeman Le’De- HAB ADMINISTRATOR

Therisa Y. Callier Fort Worth ISD TEACHER

Tia Cristy

Tips from Tia COACH

Tiffany N. Williams Freelancer GRADUATE STUDENT

Tina Lyn Clarin

Best Friends Preschool, Inc./ Grand Canyon University OWNER, ADJUNCT FACULTY MEMBER

Tiphany Young

Tiffy Glam Cosmetics FOUNDER, AUTHOR

Tonia E. McGeorge McGeorge Mobile Massage OWNER, MASSAGE THERAPIST

Tonya D DONNA SUMMER MUSICS MUSICIAN

Toshua Shelton-Wiggins

Always Promoting Independence Homecare OWNER, CEO

Tracey Ilene

Release Pain to Power CEO, FOUNDER

Tracy Arthur Tracy’s Dance and Tumbling OWNER

Tugsoyun Davaadorj Oyu, LLC FOUNDER, AUTHOR, TEDX SPEAKER

Vanessa Pittman

The Green Eyed Raven CEO

Virginia A. Hocutt

Terra Harvest Venture REALTOR®

Wendy L. Weber

Jewelry by Wendy Gallery and Gifts OWNER, ARTIST

Yaya Diamond Red Hot Reality Ent., LLC OWNER, CEO

Yeku-Yeku Baker

Soldier2Souldier, Wealthy Women Work FOUNDER, CEO

Zion Hiritho Diamonds, Diamonds CEO

photo: Elena Leya, Unsplash

INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF SOCIAL MEDIA

We are highlighting trailblazing women who are making waves across digital platforms. These women are not only shaping trends but also empowering and inspiring their audiences through their voices, creativity, and leadership. In this special feature, we celebrate their impact and the powerful role they play in the ever-evolving landscape of social media.

Genna Apfel

of @_thats_forking_good

29k Followers on Instagram Link: www.theforkinggroup.com

What began several years ago as a food blog under the unique name @_thats_forking_good has evolved from a passion project into a full-fledged business. Today, Genna Apfel remains as the founder and director of The Forking Group Agency. She is a seasoned marketing professional with over 15 years of experience in the industry. Her diverse range of clients includes restaurants, prestigious hotels, national food brands, and more.

The Forking Group is a full-service hospitality digital marketing agency specializing in restaurants, their dedicated team, from creative strategists to digital experts, works tirelessly to help restaurants succeed with innovative marketing solutions and compelling storytelling that fills tables, drives revenue, and builds loyalty.

Melissa Mooney

of @lieats

68.2k Followers on Instagram

As the creator behind @lieats, Melissa Mooney has spent over a decade capturing the best of Long Island’s food, drink, and hospitality scene. She has built a dedicated community of followers who trust her to guide them to the best local restaurants, bars, small businesses, and more. From working with top-notch restaurants, hotels, and food & drink brands to highlighting hidden gems, her passion as a Long Island native is to support and uplift the small businesses that make these communities thrive. Whether it’s through mouthwatering photography, engaging storytelling, or exciting giveaways, Melissa loves connecting people with unforgettable experiences. Follow along on @lieats for the best eats, drinks, and must-visit spots across Long Island and beyond!

Rosemary Sciarappo

of @inkedwellnessmombie

12k Followers on Instagram

Rosemary Sciarappo is a devoted mom, content creator, and passionate advocate for autism awareness and empowerment for busy moms. With over a decade of experience working overnight shifts in the ER while raising her children, she knows the demands of motherhood firsthand. Now, as the creator of @inkedwellnessmombie, she helps moms find balance and financial freedom through programs like the Amazon Influencer Program, all while staying present for her kids. A proud dog mom, big foodie, and lover of 90s R&B, Rosemary brings her drive to “do it all” to every aspect of life, constantly seeking to learn, laugh, and inspire others on their journeys of healing and growth.

1 Spend time in a garden; pick strawberries, sketch trees, or stop and smell the flowers.

2 Decorate your home with fresh tulips, daffodils, or lilacs.

3 Read an easy, breezy book outdoors; try a sweet romance, a self-help guide, or even a mystery.

4 Lie down in a hammock and watch the clouds go by. A few quiet moments to yourself can be a great reset.

sprung!

5 Visit the zoo; warmer weather means a great time to plan a family trip. Zoos strike a great balance between fun and learning.

6 Go on a hike; find a friend and get some exercise outdoors. Consider bringing a camera and keeping an eye out for local bird species or other wildlife.

7 Do yoga on the grass; take time to center yourself and focus on renewal.

8 Paint your nails a pretty spring pastel; try butter yellow, sky blue, or powder pink (Tonia’s favorite).

9 Look for a four-leaf clover; everyone could use a little extra luck!

10 Enjoy a bag of jellybeans with a friend; this Easter classic is more fun when shared.

Fun ideas for the season

DR. DAVID J. PINCUS

M.D., FACS

Plastic Surgeon Pincus Plastic Surgery

Dr. David J. Pincus earned his medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine and underwent extensive training in cosmetic surgery. Returning to Long Island, he built a state-of-the-art practice recognized as a leading plastic surgery facility in the Northeast. Dr. Pincus transforms lives through his skill, artistry, and passion for empowering patients, helping them achieve full-body confidence.

An expert in cosmetic procedures, Dr. Pincus performs facelifts, breast augmentations, Mommy Makeovers, tummy tucks, liposuction, Brazilian Butt Lifts, and advanced body contouring. He specializes in complex breast implant revision surgeries and is renowned for exceptional breast reduction and augmentation results. His surgical expertise and dedication to patient care make him one of the most sought-after plastic surgeons on the East Coast.

PINCUS POINTERS

With so many facial rejuvenation treatments available, how do you help your patients choose which procedure is most suitable for them?

Patient goals, performing a detailed facial assessment, and educating patients on their options is a fantastic way to choose the best individualized treatment. Each patient is unique, and factors like aging, genetics, and lifestyle influence how your face changes over time. For some, a facelift may be the best option to address aging and restore youthful contours, while others may benefit from a blepharoplasty— an upper and/or lower eyelid lift that refreshes the eyes and brightens the overall appearance.

In other cases, non-surgical treatments from our Empowerment MedSpa can provide impactful results. Treatments like Botox® and fillers smooth fine lines and restore volume, while advanced laser technologies offer solutions for various concerns. Morpheus8™ combines microneedling and radiofrequency to tighten skin and improve texture, BBL® and Moxi® address pigmentation and sun damage, and Halo® targets sun damage, uneven tone, and texture. Additionally, SkinPen® stimulates collagen to rejuvenate the skin and enhance its overall glow. The Define treatment by InMode is a cutting-edge nonsurgical procedure that combines radiofrequency energy and advanced technology to contour, tighten, and rejuvenate the skin, delivering enhanced definition and natural-looking results without surgery. By tailoring a combination of treatments to each patient’s needs, I help empower them with natural, balanced results that boost their confidence and sense of well-being.

What is the difference between a lip lift and a lip flip?

My patients have unique goals for their lip shape and contour. A lip lift is a surgical procedure that involves a small incision at the base of the nose to remove a strip of skin, shortening the space between the nose and upper lip. This lifts the lip, revealing more of the body of the lip and creating a more balanced and defined appearance. The results are long-lasting and can enhance overall facial proportions.

A lip flip is often misunderstood—many assume it involves filler, but it’s actually done with Botox®. Instead of adding volume, Botox® relaxes the muscles around the upper lip, causing the lip to gently “flip” outward for a slightly fuller look. It’s a great option for patients who want a subtle enhancement without added volume. The right choice depends on each patient’s goals for shape, subtlety, and how long they want the results to last.

After having liposuction, does a patient need to remove sagging skin?

Most of the time, no—patients do not need to remove sagging skin after liposuction. Liposuction is designed to create smooth, contoured results, and skin often contracts naturally, especially in patients with good elasticity. However, achieving the best outcome also depends on what the patient does after surgery. Following post-liposuction care

BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY

instructions is critical. This includes wearing compression garments to help the skin adhere to the new contours, maintaining a stable weight, eating healthy, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activities until cleared.

These strict guidelines help minimize swelling, support healing, and improve overall results. Ultimately, my job is to guide patients through the entire process, ensuring their goals are realistic and that they’re set up for long-term success, including making adjustments if their goals change over time. I personally use power-assisted liposuction which yields fantastic long-lasting results. In the case where a patient has loose skin, or I am concerned about the patient’s post-operative skin excess, I will use radiofrequency heat in the operating room.

How do you determine the appropriate breast size for a patient interested in augmentation and how do you advise the patient if you disagree with the size they desire?

I work closely with my patients, knowing that their preferences can change over time. It’s important that they have realistic expectations and take the time they need— sometimes weeks, months, or even years—to feel confident in their decision. With nearly 20 years of experience in plastic surgery, I help each patient choose the right breast size by evaluating factors such as body proportions, skin elasticity, and lifestyle. I use Crisalix 3D imaging to help them visualize their results and ensure the outcome feels natural and balanced. If a patient requests an implant size that may affect their health or aesthetic balance, I address it honestly, explaining potential concerns such as back strain or skin stretching. My goal is to guide patients toward a result which aligns with their vision while prioritizing their long-term well-being and confidence. Empowering our patients at Pincus Plastic Surgery is everything. www.pincusplasticsurgery.com

TUMMY TUCK