WOMEN OF IMPACT
LOS ANGELES' LEADING WOMEN PROFESSIONALS
JENNIFER KIM MANAGING SENIOR PARTNER
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
I was always fascinated with making money grow as a child and started looking at the stock market at an early age. It was always so fun watching money grow and sharing this information with those around me. I enjoyed planning for the future and trying to figure out all the different strategies to come up with plans. My passion was learning about the financial world and how it relates to tax planning as well as legal planning and trying to solve each person's situation.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
Women need to know that the world is in their hands and that they can make their own choices and control their own finances. e are in an era where we can make more money than men and make investment decisions without having to rely solely on a male partner.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I believe setting a good example for younger generations through life lessons learned, values, and beliefs—and teaching how to set high goals—would be the legacy I would like to leave behind. I always enjoy guiding younger adults in having dreams and trying to turn them into realities by establishing goals that can be measured in small steps and in the right direction.
BARBRA STOVER
DIRECTOR, LUXURY ESTATES DIVISION
CHRISTIES, INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE
What inspired you to pursue the cause you're passionate about?
What inspired me was when I relocated to the Los Angeles metropolitan area at the age of three. My long-standing passion for the geography, culture, architecture, development, and design of Los Angeles has profoundly shaped my professional journey. This dedication has enabled me to cultivate an extensive understanding of various communities and to effectively map areas that align with the specific needs of my clients. Additionally, it has empowered me to assist clients in defining their spaces, while also providing them with valuable insights regarding schools and ideal home locations. This commitment has fueled my true passion and dedication to helping families find their dream homes, ensuring they are well informed and supported throughout the entire process. I would also like to take this opportunity to express my deep commitment to Los Angeles. My team and I have demonstrated and will continue to demonstrate, compassion during the challenging circumstances resulting from the recent fires. e have actively assisted those affected in finding suitable housing solutions. The profound sense of passion and purpose, combined with our ability to make meaningful changes in these families lives, has a significant impact. Our efforts will endure, as we remain dedicated to offering our thoughts and prayers for the well-being of Los Angeles.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I want to inspire the next generation by imparting knowledge and sharing my personal testimony to help them establish a solid foundation for success.
Originating from a small city in the nland mpire, relocated to Los Angeles with the ambition and determination to launch my own business. As a Latina, I encountered various challenges along the way. t re uired substantial effort and perseverance to reach my current position. The journey is indeed challenging; however, maintaining faith, pursuing dreams, and cultivating patience are essential components of achieving success. I am eager to motivate the upcoming generation by emphasizing that with a clear vision and dedication, it is possible to establish a thriving business and excel in any field, regardless of gender.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Regardless of your background—whether it's a small town, diverse nationality, or personal challenges—achievement is possible. I have succeeded, and firmly believe you can as well.
MICHELLE SCHWARTZ
FOUNDER & MANAGING PARTNER
THE AGENCY
Michelle Schwartz, a Beverly Hills native, embodies the luxury and sophistication of Los Angeles. As a founding member of The Agency and managing partner of its alley o ces in Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, and Studio City, Michelle expertly navigates L.A. s diverse real estate landscape. Her deep knowledge of local neighborhoods allows her to guide clients in finding their ideal homes, while her commitment to excellence ensures a seamless, personalized experience at every step.
With more than a decade of real estate success and a background in marketing and public relations, Michelle has worked with global brands such as eebok, isney, and S N. Her expertise in understanding consumer trends has translated into a distinctive approach to real estate. Featured on Netflix s Buying Beverly Hills Season , Michelle blends her marketing acumen with The Agency’s vast global network to offer unparalleled exposure and insight to her clients.
Michelle s approach is centered on communication, transparency, and a commitment to white glove service. She curates every aspect of the real estate ourney, from staging to bespoke design and landscaping solutions, ensuring each transaction is executed with finesse.
As the first female managing partner at The Agency’s alley o ces, Michelle has created an environment where women can thrive. She has worked to break the traditional mold of “boys’ clubs” in real estate by fostering collaboration among female agents. Michelle has cultivated a uni ue culture, offering mentorship, support, and tailored experiences for women in the industry. Through initiatives such as female forward networking events and advice on balancing motherhood with real estate, Michelle has empowered the area’s top female leaders to learn, grow, and excel.
A proud mother and wife, fluent in Spanish and deeply connected to her Mexican heritage, Michelle brings her multifaceted persona to every aspect of her professional and personal life.
12080 Ventura Place, Suite A, Studio City, CA 91604 424-230-3716 | MSchwartz@TheAgencyRE.com michelleschwartzrealestate.com
TAMMY TRAN
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
I am inspired by the principles of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. When my honest work contributes to my clients' beauty and happiness, find deep satisfaction. Through the art and science of the nail industry, I strive to make life a little better and more beautiful.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
’m committed to inspiring the next generation of women in the nited States and around the world to believe in their inner strength and power. hen first arrived in the nited States as a young woman, was unfamiliar with the language, but was determined to succeed through hard work and continuous self-improvement. Within my own family, I found powerful female role models in my mother and grandmothers. I’ve also been fortunate to meet countless remarkable women who embody intelligence, courage, and generosity of heart. ithout women, there would be no humanity. I hope my daughter and younger women recognize how special they are and find the inspiration to thrive.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
am passionate about creating tools that improve people’s lives. My hope is that my inventions and my company’s products can bring benefits to workers, as well as enhance their safety and overall well being, leaving a lasting, positive legacy.
SHARON FREDRICKSON
PRESIDENT
BIG SHAR PRODUCTIONS
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
I’ve always loved making people laugh. After 20 years in corporate, I realized I wasn’t laughing anymore, and it hit me that I wasn’t living authentically. I decided to follow my dreams and do whatever I could to make that happen. Starting BigShar Productions opened up opportunities I didn’t know existed—from writing scripts to becoming a personality on YouTube, to sharing funny, relatable content on social media. It’s been incredible to pursue what brings me joy while also bringing joy to others.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I know it's been said a million times, but I truly believe it's never too late to chase your dreams. I started this journey much later in life than most, but I'm having a ball! I hope to empower women of all ages to take that leap and live life authentically, whether it's starting a business, pursuing a creative passion, or just trying something that scares them. Life is too short to let fear or social expectations hold you back.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I want to be remembered for making people laugh and for my courage in living life on my terms. Whether it's through my scripts, my presence on YouTube, or my silly moments on social media, I hope my work continues to bring joy to people, especially during tough times. Messages from people saying my humor helped them through chemo or dark periods reminds me it's all worth it. My legacy is about showing that you can pursue joy and success by being true to yourself. Work hard, make yourself proud, and don't let anyone else dictate your story.
Sharon.fredrickson@bigsharproductions.com
ANGELICA HALE
FINE ART, ENTERTAINMENT AND MEDIA CONNECTOR
ANGELICA HALE PROJECTS
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
My journey into the arts was born from both passion and resilience. After experiencing a hate crime that led to job loss and homelessness, I refused to let adversity define my future. nstead, fought back— winning a landmark federal case against campus racism while still unhoused. That experience reinforced my belief in the power of art as a force for change.
Today, connect fine art collectors with sought after masterpieces, curate global creative campaigns, and use art to amplify social justice messages. Art has the power to challenge narratives, build bridges, and inspire transformation—and that is what drives me every day.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I want to show women—especially those who have faced adversity—that resilience, creativity, and vision can carve a path where none seemed possible. I use my platforms not only to champion emerging artists but also to educate and mentor women who aspire to enter the art world as investors, collectors, or creators. Through collaborations with artists, celebrities, and corporations, I create opportunities that uplift marginalized voices and bring art to the forefront of global conversations. By sharing my journey openly, I hope to empower the next generation to embrace their own creative power and reject the limitations society tries to place on them.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I hope my legacy is one of empowerment, transformation, and artistic revolution. I want to be remembered not only for creating opportunities in the art world but also for using art to drive meaningful social change. Through my work, I strive to make fine art more accessible, educate people on its investment potential, and create spaces where creativity thrives. As part of this mission, I am planning to open a gallery exhibition and entertainment venue in the Beverly Hills and West Hollywood area.
Century City/Beverly Hills 310-489-7727 theangelicahale.com
MARISOL MURAD
REALTOR
What inspired you to pursue the cause you're passionate about?
My passion for architecture and real estate was ignited at an early age. Coming from a family that has been in the real estate business in Mexico and the US for decades, I had the privilege of shadowing their activities regularly as a child, learning the ins and outs of the industry firsthand.
After graduating from Anahuac University with a degree in Hospitality and Business, I had the incredible opportunity to travel the world, working in management and sales for some of the top luxury hotel chains. At the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills, Nobu, and the Intercontinental, among others, refined my people skills and developed a deep understanding of the importance of treating clients with class, sophistication, exclusivity, and professionalism.
Beyond my work with clients, I am a passionate animal activist. I also make it a point to give back with every closed sale, as firmly believe in the importance of making a positive impact in every way possible and always giving back.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
As an immigrant and an empowered woman in my 30s, I hope to inspire young women to chase their dreams, step out of their comfort zones, and embrace the magic of new opportunities. Success comes from pushing past fear, staying disciplined, and committing to daily progress. It’s not just about big moments—it’s the consistency, dedication, and resilience you bring to each day that ultimately leads to success.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I have always been dedicated to service, treating every deal with the same care as if it were my own. When clients trust me with their assets, I take that responsibility seriously, prioritizing their best interests every step of the way. I love delivering great results and ensuring they feel confident that am truly on their team. My commitment is to follow through with integrity and action. I also believe in giving back, so for every transaction I close, I support a nonprofit primarily those helping older people, children, and animals, causes I am deeply passionate about. Above all, I strive to give my best, and if I leave a lasting impact along the way, that's a meaningful bonus. What matters most is knowing I gave it my all with honesty, dedication, and purpose.
LEJLA CAS
FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT
KNESKO SKIN
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you re passionate about?
From a young age, I witnessed how easy it was for women—myself included—to neglect their own needs while juggling careers, family, and countless responsibilities. Working as a makeup artist and esthetician allowed me to meet thousands of women from all walks of life, and one message came through loud and clear: They were craving a moment in their day that was all about them. That spark of insight fueled my desire to create KNESKO. I didn’t ust want to offer skincare wanted to inspire a daily, mindful ritual of self-love. We often talk about skincare as a necessity, but for me, it’s also a doorway to spiritual connection and emotional renewal. When we give ourselves permission to pause and nurture our skin, we also nurture our spirit.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I’m in awe of the next generation. Their courage, creativity, and global consciousness are remarkable. But despite our progress, there’s still a persistent narrative around aging and beauty that can feel fear-driven. At KNESKO, I believe in celebrating every stage of life, instead of dreading it. I want younger women to see aging as a privilege and speak to themselves with kindness instead of criticism. By formulating products without using anxiety or insecurity as a selling point, I’m taking a stand for positive beauty. I hope my journey shows future generations that you can build something meaningful—something that uplifts and encourages others—without resorting to fear based messaging. e don’t need to be fixed we deserve to be cherished.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I want people to remember KNESKO as more than a skincare brand. My dream is to leave behind a legacy of love, genuine connection, and healing energy. That’s why I infuse every product with Reiki, to serve as a gentle, guiding reminder that true beauty is an inside job.
Every time someone uses a KNESKO product, I want them to feel seen, supported, and reminded of their own worth. Yes, our formulations deliver real, visible results, but they also carry an intention for deeper self-discovery and self-acceptance. If I can encourage even one person to speak more kindly to themselves, to embrace rather than fear aging, and to nourish their spirit as passionately as they nourish their skin, I’ll know I’ve done my part. Ultimately, it’s about building a kinder world for generations to come — one face mask, one loving thought, one moment of selfcare at a time.
JASMINE GEVORKYAN
FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT
GEVORKYAN LAW FIRM, APLC
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
The journey that led me to law was shaped by personal tragedy. At just 13 years old, I lost my mother to medical malpractice—an experience that instilled in me a deep sense of injustice. It was through that pain that my passion for advocating for others was born. I saw firsthand how negligence could tear lives apart, and I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to fighting for those who were wronged and powerless. Despite the obstacles I faced as an immigrant and starting law school at 19, I was determined to transform my grief into a drive for justice.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
Beyond my work as a trial lawyer, I am dedicated to empowering the next generation of women in law. I strive to create opportunities for female attorneys to rise, break barriers, and redefine the profession. want women to see that success in law is not limited by gender or circumstance—it is built on resilience, confidence, and unwavering commitment.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
The legacy I hope to leave behind is one of lasting impact. I want to be remembered for more than just the victories I’ve achieved in the courtroom. want my legacy to reflect my commitment to justice, empowering women, and ensuring that every voice is heard— especially those silenced by adversity. My mission is to inspire others to stand up for what’s right and create a future where justice is accessible to all. This is the legacy I am building—one where justice, equality, and empowerment define the future of law.
EDEN DOZIER
PHOTOGRAPHER AND CREATIVE
EDEN DOZIER
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
Old family photographs—studying each face, each expression, imagining the stories behind them, and feeling connected to moments I’d never lived. They taught me that a portrait is more than an image; it’s a memory, a feeling, a glimpse into someone’s world. I strive to create that same sense of connection for others, capturing an essence and transporting observers, just as those old photos did for me. My work is a deeply personal journey, rooted in curiosity and a profound respect for the layers of human experience. It’s less about capturing perfection and more about honoring authenticity so others can find their own meaning in what I create.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
Women must know there’s no need to wait for permission or an open door. I learned from portraits that a face can hold a thousand sorrows and still glow like a lantern—that every face holds a story, every silence a meaning. The camera taught me that truth isn’t loud; it lingers.
If my work lingers in someone’s mind like an old song, if it inspires even one woman to stand her ground a little steadier or feel a sense of personal permission to live as she is—to tell her story as it was meant to be told—then I’ve left something worth remembering.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I don’t think of legacy as grand or gilded. I hope what remains is quieter—an echo of the love I’ve given. If someone looks at my work and feels something more than the image—a trace of connection, healing, warmth, of being understood—then I’ll know I’ve left the right thing behind. For me, everything else is passing (or ego)—it’s just the love that sticks.
eden@edendozier.com edendozier.com
WALDORF ASTORIA BEVERLY HILLS
JOYCE
LOUIE Director of Hotel Operations
ELHAM ISKANDAR
Hotel Manager
NAHAL AGHAJANI
Marketing and Public Relations
MARIA ELENA MARTIN DEL CAMPO
Human Resources Director
Joyce Louie
Working in luxury hospitality is a rare and rewarding opportunity—one that allows me to connect with people from all over the world. The relationships and connections I’ve built over the years are truly invaluable. My background includes serving as a Chef Concierge, an experience that profoundly shaped me both personally and professionally. It instilled in me a global mindset, not just as a service provider but also as a consumer.
What drives us in this industry is a genuine passion for service excellence and curating unforgettable experiences. Every day, I am excited to work alongside our dedicated team in the heart of Beverly Hills, welcoming guests from across the globe to our beautiful FiveStar hotel.
While female leaders are often recognized for their compassion, empathy, and emotional intelligence, I also believe qualities like courage, resilience, tenacity, and grit are just as essential. My advice to young female leaders is this: Focus on the quality of your work and let it speak for itself. Credibility and respect are earned. Lead by example, stand firm in your values, and never be afraid to use your voice to champion what is right.
Elham Iskandar
Since migrating from Cairo to the United States 35 years ago, I have been captivated by the art of hospitality—the seamless orchestration of service, ambiance, and attention to detail that transforms a simple stay into an unforgettable experience. This fascination led me to pursue a career in luxury hospitality, where I could merge my passion for service excellence with my love
for creating environments that inspire comfort and delight for both guests and employees. Over the years, witnessing the profound impact of exceptional hospitality on individuals and communities has been a constant source of inspiration, reinforcing my dedication to this dynamic and rewarding field.
Throughout my career, I have taken the initiative to lead and support women within my organization, championing diversity, equity, and inclusion. By fostering an environment of opportunity and empowerment, I have helped many women advance their career ambitions, ensuring that the future of hospitality is as diverse and inclusive as the guests we serve.
Nahal Aghajani
I've always been passionate about storytelling, connection, and the power of perception. Public Relations and Marketing drew me in because it’s about more than just messaging— it’s about shaping how people experience and engage with a brand. I love the challenge of crafting compelling narratives and bringing a brand’s identity to life in a way that resonates with people. My work allows me to blend strategy with creativity, balancing data-driven decision-making with innovative campaigns. Ultimately, I was drawn to this field because I wanted to build authentic relationships between people and brands, creating experiences that leave a lasting impact.
I hope to inspire women by showing that success in this industry isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about embracing your unique strengths. Creativity, intuition, and relationship-
building are invaluable skills that women naturally excel in, and I want to encourage the next generation to lean into those strengths with confidence. I also believe in lifting others as I climb—through mentorship, sharing insights, and advocating for women’s voices in the spaces where they deserve to be heard. If I can empower women to step into leadership roles with self-assurance and authenticity, then I know I’m making a meaningful impact.
Maria Elena Martin del Campo
From a young age, I was drawn to helping people—especially when it came to resolving conflict. I was always the one listening to both sides, building bridges, and helping friends communicate so they could truly hear each other and find common ground. As I grew older, I realized that this natural instinct aligned perfectly with the role of Human Resources. At its core, HR is about more than policies and procedures—it’s about bringing people together, fostering understanding, and ensuring that work is not just a job, but a collection of meaningful experiences that give us purpose.
Throughout my career, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by fearless female HR leaders and colleagues who have inspired and supported me. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey has been mentoring women who are just beginning their careers in HR. It’s a responsibility I take with great pride and respect, knowing that lifting others up strengthens not only individuals but the entire field.
From Left: Maria Elena Martin del Campo, Joyce Louie, Elham Iskandar, Nahal Aghajani
DR. SARAH COLMAIRE
HEAD OF SCHOOL | BERKELEY HALL SCHOOL
What inspired you to pursue the cause you're passionate about?
I believe education is transformative because it can shape a society of thinkers who envision infinite possibilities and act on them to make a difference. Since school is a shared experience for all children, I want to leverage that opportunity for every child to feel seen, valued, and capable of making a difference in their community and beyond.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I strive to lead as I hope to be led and inspire as I hope to be inspired. I am passionate about being a difference maker who champions unlimited potential in aspiring female leaders and lifts obstacles like self doubt from their path to fulfilling that potential.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Schools are a microcosm of society that can nurture seeds of curiosity, compassion, and resilience. My hope is that Berkeley Hall and every school I’m part of become known as communities of change makers and builders who ask, hat’s possible in order to lift limits for themselves and others.
NATASHA MCCREA
CO-FOUNDER | JACKSON MCCREA WHISKEY
What inspired you to pursue the cause you're passionate about?
I've always been driven by a desire to disrupt spaces where women's presence is undervalued. With Jackson McCrea Whiskey, Sheila Jackson and I are reshaping the spirits industry, ensuring women are seen, celebrated, and leading at every level. n coaching, empower women to reclaim their confidence and embody their main character energy. Both are about breaking barriers and redefining power on our terms.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I empower the next generation by showing up unapologetically and leading by example. I want women to know they can own any space and live a life fully aligned with their desires.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
A world where women love themselves enough to pursue their dreams and no longer ask for permission to take up space—a world where they lead with confidence, create with purpose, and live with undeniable impact.
KATHY
HAO
ATTORNEY, OWNER AND FOUNDER
TCW GLOBAL LEGAL GROUP
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you're passionate about?
As an immigrant myself, I love to help and educate people. As a first generation immigrant, know how hard it is to survive and thrive in a new country without the language, knowledge of the law, or access to resources.
I also understand that many people are frustrated by not knowing where to start. have always hoped to provide the knowledge, experience, compassion, and professional service to those who will benefit not only from my legal services but also from my experience and knowledge of navigating the system e ciently and economically.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
As an attorney, hope to inspire the next generation of women with my personal experience and ourney, showing them that you can do anything if you have the education and drive. The sky is the limit. As a businesswoman, want to tell them that they can dream big and achieve their dreams if they work hard enough and stay focused on their goals. We are not defined by history or society we are defined by ourselves, by our own dreams, and by our own actions.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
As women, we need to have our own goals and focus on ourselves. Only when we take care of ourselves can we take care of others and the world we care about.
As mothers, we want to set a good example for our daughters and for the next generation of professionals, businesswomen, and leaders.
e can overcome di culties and challenges and steer our own lives.
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MONEEKA SAWYER
FOUNDER | CORE BLISS LIFE
What inspired you to pursue the cause you're passionate about?
My personal quest for happiness was long, hard, and lonely. But when I discovered that I had the power to create my own joy, regardless of my circumstances, I was profoundly inspired to help others do the same. The pain in our world weighs heavily on my heart, and with each person I am able to help, I ease that suffering, cultivate more oy, and create a ripple effect of bliss.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I empower women to recognize that they have choices and embrace those choices to live the joyful life they deserve. Then, I encourage them to share that joy and change the world for the better.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
My legacy as a speaker, author, and media host will lie in the lives I have touched and the people they, in turn, will influence. My goal is to produce uplifting content books, shows, and films that will inspire generations to come to live blissful lives.
Moneeka@coreblisslife.com Coreblisslife.com | Blissfulinvestor.com
CHARLENE DIMAS-PEINADO
PRESIDENT AND CEO | WELLNEST
Charlene Dimas-Peinado, President and CEO of Wellnest, leads a nationally recognized, trauma-informed behavioral health and housing organization that has served the Greater Los Angeles area for over 100 years.
As the first Latina to hold this position since ellnest’s founding in 4, she provides visionary leadership and strategic direction, ensuring that the organization continues its mission of empowering children, families, and young adults. Wellnest programs include early intervention, outpatient, and intensive services for children ages 0 as well as, housing for young adults at risk of becoming unhoused. Recognizing the unique needs of mothers, the organization provides specialized maternal mental health therapy to support those experiencing postpartum depression, anxiety, birth trauma, and the emotional complexities of parenting. Rooted in trauma-informed, culturally responsive care, the services create a safe space for mothers to heal. nder imas einado’s leadership, Wellnest continues to be a vital source of hope and healing for underserved and vulnerable communities.
3031 South Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90007 323-373-2400 | wellnestla.org
CARLA RHEA PHOTOGRAPHER
CARLA RHEA PHOTOGRAPHER
What inspired you to pursue the field or cause you re passionate about?
While pursuing my bachelor's degree, my professor recognized a unique gift I had — the ability to truly see light in a way few others could. t wasn t long before people began offering to pay me to capture images, and that's when I realized I could turn my passion into a career.
When I look through my camera, my aim is always to see my clients as God sees them, capturing their essence in the most authentic and beautiful way. I love highlighting the individual characteristics that make each person uniquely special.
For me, photography is not just about taking pictures — it's about creativity and showcasing people in the best light possible.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
"The vision passed down to me from my mother has always been centered around serving others and treating people with kindness and respect. Building strong relationships has been the foundation of my business, and it has been the key to keeping clients coming back. As a result, referrals continue to flow, ensuring a bright future for the business." I hope that the next generation of women can glean something from what has worked for me.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I have faced many obstacles and barriers, but none greater than what my mother experienced as a single parent coming to America from Costa Rica. Pregnant with me and my twin, she moved from New York to California alone, determined to give us a better life. Through it all, she remained steadfast and taught me one invaluable lesson: "Never make an excuse for yourself because you're Black or a woman… YOU are an American." This has helped me stay rooted in my dreams and make huge sacrifices, even when things seemed uncertain, in pursuit of my American dream.
Today, I am proud to say that my mother’s dream of coming to America has been fulfilled through me, and it will continue through my daughter.
COURTNEY CLAGHORN
FOUNDER | SUGARED + BRONZED
What inspired you to pursue the cause you're passionate about?
I wanted to create a comfortable and enjoyable environment where clients could get a great spray tan and flawless hair removal without charging a fortune. I love making people feel their best, and it's what we get to do every day!
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
I strive to empower the next generation by leading by example and sharing what I’ve learned. I always encourage young entrepreneurs to follow their instincts, work hard, keep it simple, and have fun too.
929 Montana Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401 424-259-1616 | sugaredandbronzed.com
JENNIFER BUONANTONY
CEO & EDITOR IN CHIEF | PRESS PASS LA
What inspired you to pursue the cause you're passionate about?
I’ve always been a storyteller – the truest way to connect with others is through common experience. Storytelling has been a part of every job I’ve had in my 20+ year career. I started Press Pass LA in 2011 because I believed there was so much untapped talent in L.A., and we launched with a mission to “Get What Matters” to our viewers. In 2019, we expanded our entertainment platform to include a PR & Creative agency (PPLA.) Currently, we’re expanding the company to a production division with the vision to develop and sell original content projects across TV, Film & streaming.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
The most important legacy is the one you leave behind to those who really know you. I want my family to be proud, and my friends and colleagues to feel valued and supported. I want to have fun while accomplishing my goals that s all you can really ask for
Lead by example – being reliable, a good person, someone who sticks to their word can go a long way in this business and any business. Take steps every day toward your goals, give it your best efforts, and do right by people. Even if you have setbacks, it’s the consistency across your career that will get you to where you want to go. I also try to give opportunities to others and work with people who inspire me. Hollywood, CA 323-496-1976 | PressPassLA.com | pplasocial.com
Photo Credit: Jenna Fernandez
JAMEE NATELLA CEO, PRODUCER AND AUTHOR
WORLDRIDE
IMPACT
What inspired you to pursue the cause you're passionate about?
I founded WorldrideImpact.org because I believe every child deserves access to the world—through travel, storytelling, and cultural education. My travels as a producer exposed me to the richness of different cultures, and my son Sam's curiosity about the world made me realize how many children lack these opportunities. This inspired me to create Worldride Impact, a platform designed to provide youth with access to new cultures, perspectives, and ideas that can shape their worldview.
We support underserved public schools by renovating and transforming their libraries into centers for cultural exchange, stocked with books and resources to expand students global knowledge. e offer programs and scholarships to help students experience different cultures firsthand.
How do you hope to inspire or empower the next generation of women?
Through Worldride Impact, I want to empower young girls by expanding their worldviews and showing them that their potential reaches beyond their immediate surroundings. Exposure to other cultures helps cultivate confidence, ambition, and the belief that anything is possible. By providing access to cultural education and global experiences, we inspire young women to dream big, take on leadership roles, and create positive change in their communities.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I want Worldride Impact to be a lasting catalyst for change—making cultural exploration and education accessible to all children. My debut children’s book, Sam in London : Cheeky Kids , Medieval Blokes , and Giant Trousers , plays a key role by teaching kids about cultural differences through the eyes of our American protagonist, Sam, on his journey through London. By transforming libraries and providing opportunities for travel and cultural exchange, we aim to cultivate empathy, openness, and a global mindset. f ust one child finds the confidence to pursue their dreams because of Worldride Impact, our mission will have been fulfilled.
Los Angeles, Tokyo, London 844-973-6863
worldrideimpact.org