Every generation has women who rise above challenges and redefine what success means. Some break barriers in industries where women were once invisible, while others dedicate their lives to creating opportunities for others. Their journeys are not just about professional achievements, but also about courage, resilience, and vision. These stories remind us that success is never a straight path; it is built with determination, setbacks, and the strength to keep moving forward. In this collection, we celebrate 30 remarkable women whose lives continue to inspire countless others to dream bigger and believe in themselves.
Sydney Alexis
Sydney Alexis is a visionary entrepreneur and the innovative force behind Sheva Tea, a brand dedicated to revolutionizing the tea experience. Sydney has crafted a unique line of premium botanicals that blend traditional flavor with modern health benefits. Her journey began with a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of a holistic lifestyle. Under her leadership, Sheva Tea emphasizes ethical sourcing and sustainable wellness, ensuring that every cup supports the consumer and the planet. Sydney's commitment to quality and creativity has garnered a loyal following and positioned Sheva Tea as a leader in the wellness beverage industry.
In addition to her work with Sheva Tea, Sydney is passionate about humanity’s well-being and dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals. Sydney Alexis is not just selling tea; she’s cultivating a movement toward a healthier, more mindful lifestyle. Her vision continues to shape the future of wellness and sustainable living.
Emilia Valbum
Emilia Valbum is a senior government affairs executive, currently serving as the Head of Commercial Diplomacy and Trade, Global Government Affairs in Washington, DC. Emilia has built a remarkable career characterized by strategic acumen and a deep understanding of government affairs at both national, regional, and international levels. Her journey began in the media industry and public affairs, where she honed her skills in crafting impactful speeches and strategic communications for politicians in Copenhagen. This foundation led her to excel in government affairs roles in Brussels and Washington, DC. Emilia has served as Chief of Staff to a Member of the European Parliament and worked for several Danish governments. Her global perspective is enriched by living in over six countries and speaking several languages. She adeptly navigates energy, technology, and food policies while engaging in the arts, leveraging her strategic expertise to foster impactful encounters.
Becca Bradford
Becca Bradford is a distinguished aerospace manufacturing expert, having navigated 16 roles, six career types, five companies, and six key technologies. Now a Director at Honeywell Aerospace, she oversees a portfolio of cutting-edge avionics products that keep the world flying safely.
Armed with a BSET in Engineering and MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and a UX certification, Becca is equal parts engineer, strategist, and problem-solver. She wields her LSS and UX “toolkit” like a master key—unlocking innovative solutions to complex aerospace challenges.
Her passion, though, extends beyond the products she helps create. As @Becca_Aerospace_Coach on Instagram, she’s built a loyal following of aspiring aerospace professionals. Her flagship program, Leap Into Your Dream Aerospace Career, guides early- and mid-career talent with the clarity, strategy, and confidence to thrive in their ideal roles. Whether leading at Honeywell or mentoring others, Becca’s mission is the same: to launch people and ideas higher than they thought possible.
Gina Da Silva
Raised on the sunny island of São Miguel, Azores, Gina Da Silva developed a passion for justice, fashion, and beauty at a young age. At just 15, she moved to Canada in pursuit of a life without limits, seeking adventure, challenge, and the freedom to create her own path.
Gina began her career working with world-renowned fashion houses such as Gucci and Burberry, experiences that immersed her in the artistry of fashion and connected her with influential figures across the industry. Her love for beauty later evolved into a fascination with aesthetics and cosmetic surgery. She co-founded Elements, one of Canada’s leading cosmetic surgery centers, dedicated to empowering women and men through exceptional care and transformative results.
Her reputation quickly grew, leading her to consult with a wide range of clients, including politicians, doctors, celebrities, and entrepreneurs. Over time, she transitioned to cosmetic surgery consulting full-time while continuing her modeling career part-time. She also gained experience in the pharmaceutical side of aesthetics, strengthening her expertise and network across the industry.
Beyond her professional life, Gina is passionate about fashion, food, and travel, often showcasing Toronto’s vibrant culture on her social media while supporting small businesses. With resilience, gratitude, and a global vision, she continues to inspire others and celebrate diversity.
Denise Smith
Denise Smith is a nationally recognized entrepreneur, speaker, and advocate who has turned her own story of resilience into a movement for empowerment. Raised in Hickory, North Carolina, she overcame abuse, systemic barriers, and the challenges of public housing to build a life defined by purpose and leadership. Today, she is the founder and CEO of the Million Dollar Thrive Network, where she equips students and young adults with financial literacy, entrepreneurial skills, and leadership tools that traditional education often overlooks.
Her work extends beyond programs and mentorship. Denise recently launched a global suite of digital resources designed to give aspiring entrepreneurs the skills to thrive in an ever-changing economy. She also serves as the visionary behind URBN Magazine, a bold publication dedicated to amplifying the voices of entrepreneurs, creatives, and changemakers who are reshaping culture and building generational wealth.
Featured in outlets like NBC News, The Source, and NYC Journal, Denise continues to focus on grassroots impact. Through school visits, keynote addresses, and community programs, she inspires the next generation to dream bigger, break barriers, and embrace adaptability as the cornerstone of success.
Krista L. Thompson
Krista L. Thompson is a transformational leader, executive coach, and creative visionary with over two decades of experience helping individuals and organizations lead with purpose and authenticity. As the founder of The City Farmers Market, she brings together strategic insight and emotional resonance to create immersive experiences that foster connection, meaning, and community. Her creative studio is a tactile expression of her philosophy, reviving emotional memory through handcrafted tags, evocative storytelling, and intentional design.
Krista believes the greatest impact happens where strategy meets story, and her work reflects a deep commitment to seeing people for who they are and celebrating the unique gifts they offer. Whether coaching executives through pivotal growth or designing brand experiences that tug at the heart, she infuses each endeavor with beauty, clarity, and soul. Through The City Farmers Market, she invites consumers into a space where giving becomes a shared, purposeful act, offering products that inspire connection and allow people to feel part of something bigger. Her work reminds us that leadership and creativity are most powerful when grounded in love, intention, and community.
Robin Moore
Robin Moore, aka Ar’moore, and the oldest female fashion photographer on the globe. Robin is top tier when it comes to understanding fashion and executing a vision sought by a designer with depth and textures. Over 40 years working within the industry with top models, including her own, who now sit with a ranking within the industry network for amazing achievements. Robin is the CEO of Ar’moore Talent and Model Group, based in the beautiful Laurel Highland Mountains of South southwestern part of Pennsylvania. Mission and Motto are Heal, Grow, and Lead. Robin pushes other visionaries to stay true to their dreams and pushes new fashion designers as well as talent to success. Robin was rooted with a vision and believed the world needed to not just see art but feel art, understand, and dream through art. Robin has received many awards and been recognized for her photo talents as well as designing her own visions through fashion showcases. Robin’s talents keep her sitting on top of her game as one of the best in Fashion Photography. Even as a senior citizen, her aspirations continue to climb, and her visions are noteworthy.
Adrienne Edward
Adrienne D. Edward was born in Brooklyn, New York and was raised on Long Island. Adrienne received her Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from St. John’s University in 1991 and her Juris Doctorate Degree from Seton Hall University Law School in 1994. In 1996, the Law Office of Adrienne D. Edward, P.C. was founded in West New York, New Jersey. Since then two other locations were established, one in Jamaica Queens, New York and the other in Garden City, New York.
Ms. Edward is a fierce advocate and a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom. Her office handles matters in State and Federal Courts throughout New York and New Jersey with a focus on Criminal Defense, Family, Matrimonial, Immigration and Personal Injury. At the Law Office of Adrienne D. Edward, P.C., each client receives personalized and focused attention on their case. The impact that Adrienne D. Edward has made on the legal community expands far beyond the courtroom. She serves as a mentor for first generation college students, law students and new attorneys. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and wisdom with young mentees. Adrienne D. Edward is definitely in a league of her own. She has had countless victories in the courtroom and is committed to justice. At the Law Office of Adrienne D. Edward, P.C., the “Defense Never Rests!”
Dr. Ashley Abaie
Dr. Ashley Abaie’s life defines the transition from “yes, I can” to “yes, I will”. She doesn’t just say “yea, I could do that.” She says “Yes, I will do that” and then does. This mindset became the genesis that propelled and transformed her life into a series of meaningful accomplishments. Her ideas became actions that she now shares as inspiration to others.
Dr. Ashley Abaie serves vulnerable patient populations as a dentist, has recently published her memoir, Coming Free, and two children’s books, The Macaw in the Kitchen and The Macaw in the Art Studio with more in the pipeline, all while raising her two boys as a full time solo parent and walking her healing journey from sexual violence and abusive relationships with courage and authenticity. She is also a speaker and coach. You can find her books on Amazon and learn more about her and her work at www.comingfree.com
Charmaine Tolle
Charmaine Tolle is the owner and lead designer of Affections Floral Design, a wedding florist and event planning studio based in Central New York. With a lifelong love for flowers and a passion for celebrating life’s most meaningful moments, Charmaine has built her reputation on creating floral designs that are both vibrant and timeless.
Her approach is personal and collaborative—she believes every couple deserves wedding flowers that reflect their unique style and story. Whether it’s an elaborate floral arch, delicate bouquets, or simple yet elegant centerpieces, Charmaine brings each vision to life with creativity and care.
With years of hands-on experience, Charmaine’s expertise goes beyond arranging flowers—she understands the importance of atmosphere, detail, and design in transforming an event. From planning consultations to day-of setup, she ensures that every detail is handled seamlessly so couples can focus on enjoying their special day.
Known for her artistry, professionalism, and genuine connection with clients, Charmaine has helped countless couples bring beauty and meaning to their celebrations. Through Affections Floral Design, she continues to turn her love for flowers into unforgettable experiences.
Gloria Dimos
Gloria Dimos is the powerhouse matriarch of a vibrant household with three little boys and a devoted husband. Once solely a homemaker, Gloria has redefined her identity- stepping boldly into entrepreneurship as a co-leader of her husband's company, co-founder of a thriving event decor business, and a voice for women embracing self-love and transformation. Her journey took a dramatic turn following a life-altering spinal surgery just one year ago. Rather than be defined by adversity, Gloria chose to rise- more resilient, more driven, and more passionate than ever. She is living proof that women can be both nurturing and fierce, soft and strong. Today, she's sharpening her talents in remote sales, embracing growth, and inspiring other women to take the reins of their lives. Her message is clear: you are the author of your own story-and it's never too late to become the boss of your own life.
Leslie Anne Lee
Leslie Anne Lee is a versatile and award-winning American author, screenwriter, poet, and essayist. She started writing at age six—creating imaginative stories with crayons—that earned her her first school award in the second grade. Her literary influences include Dickens, Brontë, C.S. Lewis, and Uris.
A prolific novelist, Lee has penned titles such as The Rock and the Wind, Demons in the Hog Shed, and the Legends of the Vale series, which includes Child of Dawn, Silken Waters, and the recently released The Ashwalker.
As a screenwriter, she adapted her own fantasy novel Child of Dawn into a feature screenplay—learning how to translate inner monologues into visual storytelling and dialogue. Her creative journey is marked by resilience—writing through illness, motherhood, and self-doubt, yet publishing across genres from fantasy and historical fiction to poetry and op-eds.
Based in Fresno, California, Leslie supports her creative community through local film nonprofits, red-carpet events, and mentoring youth, while fostering her artistic spirit through continuous writing and other creative endeavors such as filming with her two children.
Jordan Graeme DC MS DCN
Jordan Graeme is a Doctor of Chiropractic with a doctorate in clinical nutrition. She is an integrative medicine provider with a passion for reinvention, resilience, and equestrian wellness. After 10 years at Oregon Health and Science University treating chronic pain patients, she stepped into entrepreneurship to create a more empowering model of care. Jordan helps riders and women move, heal, and rise through personalized care that blends chiropractic, Pilates, nutrition, and mindset work. A former Division I athlete, mother, and survivor, she draws on her lived experience - overcoming abuse, infertility, alopecia, and career loss - as the foundation of her upcoming book and mission. Jordan is now stepping into motivational speaking to help women reclaim their strength, rewrite their story, and rise after life's hardest chapters. Whether in the clinic, barn, or on stage, her work centers around one powerful belief: Reinvention is always possible
Stacey Steele
Stacey Steele is the Director of Communications & Operations at The Steele Family Foundation and created the WISE Scholarship Program™, a global mission built to support “stranded superstar” through personalized education, mentorship, and life-long access.
Alongside her husband, Michael Steele, Stacey has helped scale WISE across multiple continents, introducing its signature “Earn to Learn” model in undeserved communities throughout Africa, North America, and Europe.
Her leadership has shaped everything from building a 263,000 sq ft school in rural India to reshaping how scholarships are earned, valued, and experienced in places too often left behind.
Her foundation’s impact has been recognized by Charities Aid Foundation America for Excellence in International Philanthropy, alongside the Andrea Bocelli Foundation.
Stacey doesn’t lead from a distance. She shows up - early mornings, across continents, side by side with WISE students and partners. Her impact lives in the relationships she builds and the belief she brings.
Erica Lewis
Erica Lewis is a Spiritual Healer, Practitioner, and Life Coach devoted to helping individuals heal, grow, and reconnect with their true selves. She blends spiritual practices with life coaching techniques to guide people through life’s challenges, empowering them to release limiting beliefs and step into greater clarity, balance, and self-love.
Passionate about holistic well-being, Erica creates safe and supportive spaces where clients can explore their inner worlds and find the tools to transform their lives. Beyond her coaching work, she is a strong advocate for mental health, actively raising awareness, driving donations, and sharing valuable resources to support those in need.
With a compassionate and empowering approach, Erica inspires others to embrace personal growth and live with purpose. Through her work, she continues to touch lives, helping people unlock their inner strength and walk confidently on their journey of healing and self-mastery.
Annastasia Mason
Annastasia Mason, the reigning Ms. Universe® 2025, is a proud mother of three and a global ambassador for Domestic Violence Awareness. With nearly four decades of experience as a model, beauty guru, and pageant veteran, she continues to inspire others through her work and advocacy.
Her academic background in Psychology and Art Education laid the foundation for her creative and empathetic approach to life. Known widely as “The Queen Bee of Positivity,” Annastasia has built a global platform focused on empowering future generations, breaking cycles of abuse, and spreading kindness across cultures.
She is the founder of Positively You Empowerment Studio™, creator of Warrior Women International©, and the visionary behind her signature course Beauty From Ashes©. This transformative program is designed for women ready to turn their pain into power, rise from the ashes of their struggles, embrace their true worth, and step boldly into the light of their own radiance. Recognized by New York Weekly as one of the Top 30 Influential Women of 2025, Annastasia continues to build her global outreach. Her belief that “Beauty is Universal™” reflects her lifelong commitment to helping every woman shine without ever dimming her own sparkle.
Dr. Sarah O’Brien Laverone
Dr. Sarah O’Brien Laverone recently earned her degree of Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology. Dr. Sarah has a legal background as a Paralegal and is starting her Legal Operations Consulting and Digital Artifacts Art Consulting business. Dr. Sarah launched her art business in March of 2025 and is an artist who specializes in digital photography and oil painting. Her faith as a Christian has played a considerable role in her life and continues to do so. She volunteers with organizations such as the International Justice Mission (IJM), the Sophia Institute, and the Church.
Dr. Sarah hopes to receive grants to further her research in Digital Artifacts and contribute to academia, write books, be a professor in higher education, continue her consulting career, and continue to paint and grow as an artist. Look for her new podcast, airing soon, called ‘Dr. Random’. In her free time, she loves to paint, travel, cook, golf, be at the beach, snowboard, do yoga, work out, visit art museums and art galleries, shop, and spend some quality time with her dog Ava.
Maria Praljak
Maria Praljak is a strong leader, change-maker, and resilient entrepreneur — the gorgeous boss woman behind the global phenomenon Flying Dresses. As the CEO and Founder, she has empowered women across the world to feel like goddesses through transformative fashion and photography experiences in Santorini, Bali, New York, Melbourne, Vietnam, and the Maldives.
With nearly five years of international sailing experience, Maria brings a worldly vision to her brand. She has featured on Channel 31 as a special guest for International Nonprofit Global Women Empowerment, returned as a speaker for the Global Women’s Peace Foundation, and now proudly serves as its Brand Ambassador.
Maria is a member of International Dress for Success Victoria and is joining its Board Committee. She was recently honoured as a Speaker, Awardee, and Partner at Global Business Week in the Maldives. Also an equestrian show jumping judge in Victoria, Maria continues to inspire — even gracing global magazine covers for her trailblazing leadership. Maria Praljak is Unstoppable, and this is just the beginning…
Ashley E. Poklar, PhD
Ashley E. Poklar, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and former special-education teacher turned global child-protection innovator. As Clinical Director at the Sentinel Foundation, she builds partnerships between open-source intelligence teams, law-enforcement agencies, and humanitarian organizations to dismantle trafficking networks and design trauma-informed aftercare. She consulted on the relocation of 59 children with severe disabilities from a Haitian orphanage to safe family homes in Jamaica—ensuring physical safety, emotional healing, and ongoing follow-up to support their thriving. Through her pioneering aftercare model, Ashley provides free psychological care to at-risk youth, keeping them connected to family. In 2022, she founded A Poklar Ponders LLC, crafting accessible resources that blend psychology, education, and parenting—often inspired by her daily life as a homeschooling mother of four. Her work champions resilience, community care, and systemic transformation
Lainie Kruger
Lainie Kruger is a powerful, authentic voice in personal transformation, grief, leadership, and conscious living. A widow, devoted mother, and founder of Proactive Transformation, she turned deep personal loss into a mission: helping others heal, rise, and reconnect with who they truly are. Her work blends soulful self-awareness with practical, proactive strategies that guide clients from survival mode to empowered living. Known for her raw honesty, deep compassion, and unwavering belief in human potential, Lainie helps others navigate the balance between ego and soul, break free from limiting beliefs, and design the life they dream of. Through coaching, public speaking, mentoring, and her upcoming book, she’s building a global movement of courageous individuals ready to own their story and thrive. Based in Queensland, Australia, Lainie leads with love, legacy, and purpose—igniting the light within others to live fully, freely, and on their terms.
Sonya Weigle
Sonya Weigle is an experienced executive, board director, and now founder of The Catalytic Collective, a transformative membership and coaching platform for accomplished women designing their next chapter. With over 25 years of leadership across biotech, pharma, and consulting, Sonya has led high-impact M&A integrations, advised global boards, and built human capital strategies that move companies forward.
Her distinguished career spans from global consulting to Chief People and Investor Relations Officer for a biotech serving patients with rare epilepsy. She also recently founded NextStageBio Advisors to advise the CEOs of early-stage biotech companies.
Currently serving as Corporate Board Director or investor for three life sciences companies, Sonya combines strategic business acumen with community leadership through extensive nonprofit board service.
Her newest venture, The Catalytic Collective, reflects her personal reinvention by creating the space she wished existed for executive women ready to lead on their own terms.
Nadine Campbell
Nadine Campbell is a renowned expert in facial yoga and the founder of Face Yoga by Nadine Campbell. With passion and expertise, she is dedicated to promoting natural beauty and well-being through facial yoga exercises. Nadine has years of experience in the beauty industry and specializes in holistic approaches to skincare and anti-aging.
Through her work, Nadine Campbell has helped numerous individuals boost their self-confidence and enhance their natural beauty. Her holistic approach combines facial exercises, relaxation techniques, and nutrition tips to improve skin health and enhance overall well-being.
Nadine is known for her professional and empathetic approach, allowing her students to benefit from the advantages of facial yoga. Her vision is to inspire people to harmonize their inner and outer beauty and achieve a healthy, radiant appearance.
Lana Barker
Lana Barker is a remarkable individual who has overcome numerous challenges in her life. With 15 years of experience in the beauty industry as a professional makeup artist and hairstylist, Lana has honed her skills and become an expert in her field. However, her journey has not been without its hardships. As a single mother of four children, Lana has faced the difficulties of balancing work and family responsibilities.
In addition to her professional achievements, Lana is also a cancer survivor. Her battle with cancer has given her a unique perspective on life and has fueled her determination to inspire and empower others. Lana has also escaped domestic violence with her 4 kids. Started to play music again, and rocking the scene as a techno DJ and producer. Lana is also an esteemed, award-winning artist recognized as the Angel of Danessa Myricks Beauty. She holds the distinction of being an artist at The Makeup Show New York and a distinguished speaker at Beauty Expo Australia.
Fabiani Franca
Fabiani is a young movement artist with a background in neurobiology who continually probes the interplay between neuroscience and contemporary dance theater. She currently is an artist-in-residence at TFYD in Mexico-City and has worked on multidisciplinary projects with established institutions including UNESCO, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berliner Festspiele, and Deutsches Theater jung*.
Fabiani’s physical training is complemented by her academic foundations in psychology from Humboldt University of Berlin, where she specialized in neurobiology and psychotherapy. She also holds a degree in Social Culture Work from Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences, where she continues to support research.
Fabiani leverages social media to build an international network of professional stage artists, academic researchers, psychotherapists, social culture projects, and young people. Her upcoming work includes collaborations between professional stage artists and researchers to develop dance theater pieces exploring emerging themes from neuroscience, and workshops to enhance emotional regulation and mental health in youth.
Sheryl Baba
Understanding that many clients feel uncomfortable seeking skincare advice from younger salespeople, Sheryl offers a welcoming environment where clients of all ages can address their skin concerns. She tackles issues ranging from teen acne and college stress to hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, as well as aging-related concerns like spots, wrinkles, and slack skin.
During each visit, Sheryl conducts a thorough skin analysis and collaborates with clients to create personalized skincare plans. She emphasizes the importance of a proper home skincare regimen, SPF use, water intake, and nutrition. Sheryl offers professional treatments tailored to make visible improvements in her clients' skin.
Additionally, Sheryl has curated a collection of global skincare products, including her own line, "STRATEGIC SKINCARE by Sheryl Baba," to support her clients' skincare routines. Sheryl's dedication ensures her clients achieve confidence and radiant skin at any age.
Kayleigh Christina
Kayleigh Christina is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist and the Co-Founder / Chief Growth Officer of CLEARSTEM Skincare. As an author, podcaster, and investor/advisor to health-centric brands, Kayleigh seamlessly bridges holistic nutrition and skincare, promoting wellness from the inside out.
Kayleigh’s journey into the world of clean skincare began when she developed a breast tumor and severe acne in her mid-twenties. Despite consulting leading dermatologists and skin specialists, her acne persisted until she met Danielle Gronich—Clinical Esthetician and owner of San Diego Acne Clinic—who supported Kayleigh in clearing her skin from within in a matter of weeks.
Bonding over a mission to deliver more effective acne care to people of all ages, Kayleigh and Danielle formulated CLEARSTEM in 2016. The duo recently launched their revolutionary Acne Lab Test and are now helping thousands of people address the root cause of their acne through comprehensive lab testing and lifestyle-based solutions.
Megumi Roberts
Starting her career in the whirlwind world of high-end fashion, Megumi Roberts quickly rose through the ranks, captivating brands like Virgin Cinemas as Richard Branson’s PR, Cartier, Moët Hennessy Diageo, Dior, with her astute understanding of the market and her unparalleled relationship- building skills. But Megumi’s story doesn’t end at brand deals and celebrity endorsements. For her, luxury is not just about opulence; it’s about human connection and empowerment. With a mentor’s heart and a strategist’s mind, Megumi tirelessly dedicates herself to guiding and elevating under-represented talent. Her keen eye for potential and her unwavering support have helped countless artists and brands reach their full potential, solidifying her position as a pillar of the luxury ecosystem.
In 2024, Megumi’s gaze is firmly fixed on the future. With a growing network of rising stars and a relentless passion for fostering talent, she is poised to reshape the landscape of brands in Japan and beyond. Keep your eyes on Megumi – she’s not just navigating the world of luxury, she’s building an empire of empowerment, one connection at a time.
Jessyca Canal
Jessyca is the entrepreneur behind EBJ Events and she has spearheaded her business into one of South Florida’s most sought-after event planning companies for corporate and social events. Jessyca’s background is in marketing and economics but for the last 10 years, EBJ Events has been her passion. The EBJ Babes have helped many clients realize their dreams and have helped them create countless memories that last a lifetime.
As a Miami based company, Jess is known for bringing fun energy into every room and she is blessed to have been able to turn that light hearted energy into a successful business. Jessyca has been featured on VOGUE, CBS, Miami Modern Luxury and is a part of The Knot’s Hall of Fame and Wedding Wire’s Best of Weddings. As a single mom of twins, running EBJ Events, a podcast and an annual bridal show there is nothing that the EBJ Babes cannot do! They are committed to delivering excellence no matter how grand or intimate the occasion.
Melissa Sherwood
Melissa Sherwood is the owner of Tocco Divino Salon. Melissa started out as a hairstylist in a small town in Michigan with dreams of growing and having her own salon. After 12 years, she moved to California and started all over again. Now in a city where she knew no one she had to make a name for herself. 11 years of continued education, hard work, and connecting with the community helped her to finally open her own salon. The heart behind owning her own business was to mentor others in the beauty industry to achieve their dreams. Melissa’s love for people went into every inch of Tocco Divino Salon. From creating an atmosphere that feels like home, to putting in a coffee shop that is open to the public. To some this seemed odd, but to Melissa, it was a way to bring the community together in a safe atmosphere and create a space with a “Cheers” feel where everyone knows your name.
Dr. Adebola Ajao, Ph.D
Dr. Adebola Ajao is an epidemiologist, author, keynote speaker, personal development coach, wife, and mother. Dr. Ajao has dedicated two decades to protecting public health and a decade to advancing women’s health through research.
Dr. Ajao is the founder of Empowering Initiatives, an organization that empowers professional women to identify their passion, walk in their purpose, fulfill their potential, and maximize their impact through personal leadership and service to humanity. Dr. Ajao published her first book “Empowered Woman” in 2021 and is a co-author of “The Habits Code”, a collection of success mindsets, and habits of how authors and coaches have excelled at mastering their lives.
In her speaking engagements, workshops, and coaching program Dr. Ajao teaches her five growth principles as practical tools for professional women to uncover their unique talents, retrain their mindset, overcome limiting beliefs, and take consistent action to unlock their potential and maximize their impact.
Final Thoughts
The stories of these women are more than personal victories; they are guiding lights for anyone striving to overcome challenges and create meaningful change. Their lives show us that success is not about where you start, but about the courage to take the next step and the persistence to keep going. By sharing their journeys, we are reminded that inspiration is all around us and that every challenge carries the possibility of growth. May their paths encourage you to trust your own and to know that the strength to achieve something extraordinary already lies within you.