PALM COAST, Fla- Perhaps it was the reciprocal words of wisdom from BOLD Ladies in Business member D’Lorah Anderson, “I Can, I Will, I Must”, or the simply honest question, “Do I belong here?” by Liz Villaneuva that defined the depth of unity among the women of the BOLD Ladies as they celebrated the fifth anniversary with the theme “Rooted in Community”.
“The answer isn’t found in comparison, it’s not found in achievement, or perfection, but in community,” continued Villaneuva, known professionally as The Brain-Based Therapist. “When we experience genuine connection, rooted in community, our brains release oxytocin. This reduces fear, increases feelings of trust and even enhances our immune systems.”
“Five years ago BOLD Ladies started as a vision, a gathering, a ripple. Today it is a bold, brilliant root system nourishing over 100 women in this very room. If you leave here today remembering only one thing, let it be this, “Comparison may keep you striving, but community will keep you rising. So don’t wait to belong, you already do.”
“Rooted, empowered and connected”, the evening featured other inspirational speakers like CurleyTail Design’s Kim Fitzgerald, Christmas Come True’s Nadine King, and former Flagler Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Lindsay Elliot, and Seventh Judicial Circuit Judge Alicia Washington.
The evening included the crowing of chapter queens and the awarding of scholarships for women in business.
With a dress code of Downton Abbey, the Roaring 20’s were in full swing as attendees kicked up their heels with dance lessons courtesy of Xenia Preveziotis-Tzivaeri, music by DJ Vern, and photobooths by Candid Clicks to capture the moments.
What began as a small meet up led by Ana Reyes-Ouzts and her sister Alina Perry-Smith with a handful of women in June 2020, has continued to grow with new chapters being added across the state, inspiring women to connect, build relationships, and support each other with genuine enthusiasm.
“When women lead with purpose, real change happens,” she said.
Since becoming a nonprofit organization in 2023 to date, BOLD Ladies has donated to 95 charities contributing a total of $84,527.07, and awarded $17,000 in scholarships to BOLD Ladies in Business.
“Last night was an unforgettable night – celebrating Bold Ladies in Business Rooted in Community 5th Anniversary Celebration – Bold Ladies in Business Corp. Five years of purpose, power, and community,” said Reyes-Ouzts.
“I’m overflowing with gratitude as we celebrate this incredible milestone. What started as a vision has grown into something deeply rooted, empowered by connection, courage, and collective. Thank you for believing, for building, and for being part of this journey.”
2025 BOLD Ladies in Business Chapter Queens
Broward: Ginna Tassanelli
Duval: Alice Bennett
Flagler: Sam Hayes, Rachelle Paulk, Sarah Whedbee
Marion: Denise Myford
Seminole: Lilly Mattingly
St. Johns: Erin Kelly
Volusia: Courtney Akel & Sheri Nine
2025 BOLD Ladies in Business Scholarships
$1,000 Scholarship Recipients
Lifewave: Joy Price
Pet Friendly Lender: Danielle Desousa
Author, Publisher: Christina Kaplan
BookMark’It Bookstore: Julie Hald
Parties by Dani: Danilja Howell
$500 Scholarship Recipients
Sea Dreams by Sara: Sara Meinking
Aliya Photography: Carrie S.
Yonette’s Beauty Den: Yonette Turner
