Mary Rathman

The Laker/Lutz News encouraged readers to nominate women in the community who epitomize the word “dynamic.” By definition, dynamic is characterized as a constant change, or progress. It also is used to describe someone who possesses a positive attitude, great energy and new ideas. The 50 Most Dynamic Women of 2024 in the Tampa region (in no particular order) are:

Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Cristy Berry, Stephanie Bracknell Black, Valerie Blanks, Margaret “Margie” Bradley, Diana Brooks, Brie Burke, Maya Burke, Anjel Camenzuli, Lisa Marie Carroll, Angel L. Cook, Jessica Cooper, Jo Cumbo, Ana Dominguez de Shaw, Damaris Diaz, Whitney C. Elmore, Jackie Eden, Dayna Friedman, Dylan Gamez, Sandy Graves, Maria Hixon, Becky Jenkins, Alicia Johnson, Shannon Kennedy, Keke Kikilis, Traci Lamb, Kimberly Lamke, Melissa (Missy) Lea, Christy Maldonado, Amanda Mantaporn, Kristy Margiotta, Kelly Mothershead, Melissa Nordbeck, Roula Papapanos, Rosie Paulsen, Vanessa Phillips, Kimberly Poe, Debbie Lee Proulx, Christie Rinck, Erica Shireman, Melissa Sholler, Shnai Simmons, Jessica Smalley, Brandi Smith, Sabrina Stevens, Ana Hidalgo Stooks, Robyn Tanner, Linda Ward, Vicki Wiggins and Madonna Jervis Wise.

Cristy Berry, Bfit Holistic Health and Wellness

Overcoming chronic health conditions, Cristy Berry reclaimed her life through holistic healing. “I saw numerous doctors over the years in search of a cure or at least something to help me have a quality life,” Berry said. “After many failures in that effort, I took my health into my own hands and began to learn how to heal the body naturally and how the body worked.” Berry’s health journey inspired her to earn board certification as a Doctor of Holistic Health and launch Bfit Holistic Health and Wellness to empower others to transform their lives. 

Stephanie Bracknell Black, Pioneer Florida Museum and Village

As executive director for Pioneer Florida Museum and Village, Stephanie Bracknell Black works to enrich cultural experiences in the community. The museum has opened its doors to thousands of students on field trips each year as well as allowed youth to log volunteer and community service hours for college. “Embracing a mindset of collaboration and mutual growth not only fosters a sense of community and goodwill but also paves the way for personal fulfillment and achievement,” she said. Prior to joining the museum in 2015, she worked for Habitat for Humanity of East & Central Pasco, impacting the lives of more than 50 families.

Brie Burke, D.A.Y.S. (Depression Awareness & Youth/Young Adult Suicide)

If Brie Burke looks familiar, you may remember her from one of many movies, commercials and music videos she has starred in. She also has represented Pasco County in the pageant circuit. Burke is not only a professional actress, singer, model and pageant queen, but she also heads up D.A.Y.S. (Depression Awareness & Youth/Young Adult Suicide), a nonprofit that hits close to home. “It is my goal to shine a spotlight on the prevention of youth and young adult suicide, as well as to assist in any way those suffering from bullying, depression and the loss of a loved one due to suicide,” Burke said. “I know personally the effects this has on family and friends, having lost my cousin David to suicide. David is the reason for D.A.Y.S.”

 

Jackie Eden, Pasco Economic Development Council

Many of the insights that Jackie Eden picked up over the years while owning and operating a business have been passed on to students at Pasco-Hernando State College. She serves as an adjunct professor as well as assistant director of the college’s Career and Testing Center. “My philosophy is to provide practical, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for real-world business challenges,” Eden said. Outside of work, she has contributed to groups like the RAP House, West Pasco Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Trinity, where she installed water filters and latrines in a Honduras village.

Whitney C. Elmore, University of Florida/Pasco County BOCC (Board of County Commissioners)

Servant leadership is at the core of Whitney C. Elmore’s personal philosophy. As the Pasco County Extension director, Elmore strives to remove barriers to personal progress and professional development for her team, which allows them to better serve citizens. “Our guiding mission in Extension is to turn science into solutions which empower citizens socially, environmentally and economically,” Elmore said. “While my role is to empower my team members through servant leadership, so, too, is my mission for the citizens I serve.” She is currently serving as president-elect of the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Society of Certified Public Managers.

Dylan Gamez, The Hacienda

Dylan Gamez’s journey took an exciting turn in 2009 after moving from Long Island to Florida, where she met her husband, Barrett, and discovered her calling in the hospitality industry while working at Walt Disney World. Being part of the reopening team for The Hacienda in 2021 has been a rewarding experience. She serves as marketing and public relations manager for the historic 1920s-era hotel. “Watching guests walk through the door is still as exciting as the first day we opened the doors,” Gamez said. “We’ve already hosted quite a few celebrities and dignitaries, but the highlight is always the awe on a first-time guest’s face.”

Maria Hixon, Pasco Kids First

After rebuilding her life in Pasco County following the mass shooting at Virginia Tech University in 2007 and later raising two children as a single mother, Maria Hixon advocates for children. As development director for Pasco Kids First, Hixon works to create community ambassadors to continue the organization’s mission of building “brighter futures for children and families.”  “The most important thing we can do is to love God and love others as best as we can, forgive others and ourselves, and move forward in making our corner of the world better as much as we can,” she said.

 

Becky Jenkins, Mobley Homes

To say Becky Jenkins has survived in the male-dominated construction industry would be an understatement. She has thrived, as she celebrates 26 years in the building industry. Not only that, but she has climbed to the role of vice president at Mobley Homes, served on the board of directors of the Tampa Bay Builders Association and won 10 industry awards for design since 2012. She also has donated her time and skills to more than a dozen community organizations. “I have been able to give back to my community while raising a beautiful family and maintaining the role in my company of building new homes for local families to enjoy,” Jenkins said. 

Alicia Johnson, Empowerment of Hope: Ladies Clothing Drive

Alicia Johnson and Diana Brooks started Empowerment of Hope a decade ago while working together at a bank, initially operating from their homes. They recognized the need to help people dress professionally, affordably. They successfully transitioned their clothing swaps from annual to semi-annual events held at public locations for free, supported by the community. Their efforts have improved numerous lives. “Hearing the success stories, from individuals finding outfits for job interviews to new relationships being formed, has been incredibly humbling,” Johnson said. “These events have made a real difference in people’s lives, and knowing we played a part in that is deeply rewarding.”

Traci Lamb, Caregiving Worldwide Network

After losing her father in 2022, Traci Lamb dedicated herself to caring for her mother. With support from her mother, Lamb took her business to the next level. She hosts a popular radio show on Legends Radio that reaches about 150,000 people and a streaming TV program that reaches over 600,000 viewers across seven countries, with plans for further expansion and celebrity collaborations. Raising awareness about caregiving has earned Lamb distinctions such as “Top 100 Healthcare Visionaries” in 2019 and “Top Healthcare Influencer” in 2020, from different media outlets.

Kimberly Lamke, Believe It and Achieve It

Occupational therapist Kimberly Lamke never thought about owning a business — until her boss revealed in 2018 that she was retiring and closing the company. Wanting to stay connected to clients, Lamke launched Believe It and Achieve It. The company has thrived despite COVID-19 restrictions and the devastating news that Lamke was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer in 2022. “I knew that I needed to be brave and tenacious to show my children, husband, family, friends and those I worked with that giving up is never an option — that taking each day as it comes and finding a positive in each day helps overcome adversity,” she said. “If you believe it, you can achieve it.”

Christy Maldonado, Social Media Marketing by Christy Maldonado

Christy Maldonado moved to Tampa 23 years ago with the goal of becoming an entrepreneur. “That has been one of the best decisions for me,” said Maldonado, a retired attorney. “I’m dedicated to helping small businesses achieve their goals. As I always say, small businesses with big dreams are my focus.”Maldonado can certainly walk the walk when it comes to goals. Professionally, she became a two-time Amazon best-selling author. Personally, she has lost 158 pounds. Maldonado also has served on the board of directors for Operation Helping Hand Tampa and the Women-n-Charge networking group.

Kristy Margiotta, Bella Partnerships

Kristy Margiotta overcame social anxiety to get involved in the community. This has allowed Margiotta, owner of Bella Partnerships, to build relationships, connect people with needed resources, as well as highlight local nonprofits and small businesses. I am real, relatable and am not afraid to stand up for what is right, as well as stand up for those that can’t stand up for themselves,” Margiotta said. She has been active in the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, serving on the board of directors for its Young Professionals Group and earning Ambassador of the Year honors in 2022.

Kelly Mothershead, City of New Port Richey

Since losing her son to a prescription overdose in 2011, Kelly Mothershead has been devoted to preventing overdose deaths in the community. Mothershead has served on task forces, participated in panels and worked with lawmakers in hopes of making a difference. She stays busy as deputy mayor on the New Port Richey City Council and as a member of several organizations, and also remains one of Tampa Bay’s top 500 real estate agents. She is especially proud of securing a home for a local veteran and his daughter. “That is why I love what I do,” she said. “My goal in life has always been to help others and support my community.”

Melissa Nordbeck, Candidate for Hillsborough County Commissioner District 2

Melissa Nordbeck sees an opportunity to engage the public more when it comes to local government. She is running for the District 2 seat on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners to increase access to the decision-making process. “Being 50 is extremely liberating,” Nordbeck said. “I feel stronger and braver than ever before. I am more driven and now I have in my sights my purpose — a new voice for northern Hillsborough County.” She enters the race with experience working within the Hammock Woods Special Tax District and Ryan Wells Foundation board of directors. 

Brandi Smith, Fred K. Marchman Technical College

Brandi Smith has all the ingredients for a successful career, but her mother’s passing last January prompted the award-winning chef to want to savor what’s truly important. “Until that day, I had been so focused on the daily grind of trying to raise my children, being a good wife, doing my part in supporting our family and focusing on making my business successful that I lost sight of what is truly important in our lives,” Smith said. “Doing good by others, making lasting memories, living a fulfilling life and leaving behind a legacy.” Smith owns Home Cooked Personal Chef Service, teaches culinary arts courses at Fred K. Marchman Technical College and volunteers with Moms Feeding Moms. 

Sabrina Stevens, West Coast Karate

Sabrina Stevens not only launched West Coast Karate during the COVID-19 pandemic but she also formed a 501c3 in 2022 that provides funding for children in need to pay for classes, after-school care and tournaments. The West Coast Competitive Martial Arts Foundation helps reach more students of all abilities, giving them a place to feel included and reach their goals. “I am influenced every time I see a child beaming with pride when they reach a goal,” Stevens said. “My philosophy is to never give up. I believe that with hard work, determination and resilience, all things are possible.”

Ana Hidalgo Stooks, LifeChoices Family Medical

Raised by Cuban parents who immigrated to the United States in 1961 with $10 and a suitcase, Ana Hidalgo Stooks went on to make a tremendous impact in her community. Since becoming founding executive director of LifeChoices Family Medical in 2009, the clinic has served more than 57,689 women and families. Stooks also is the proud mother of five young adults. “My parents instilled in all six children the five Fs: faith, family, friends, freedom and fun,” she said. “All of these have been the core of who I am and what I aspire to do to make a difference in my community.”

Robyn Tanner, Robyn Tanner Coaching

Robyn Tanner evolved from getting people in shape as a fitness instructor to changing people’s lives as a future self-strategist and transformation coach. With her no-nonsense coaching style, Tanner empowers women to quit settling, and to pursue their dreams with relentless courage and authenticity. She speaks with authority, having fought her way through grief, divorce, financial ruin, eviction and homelessness after a life-threatening misdiagnosis. “My business has become a symbol of possibility for countless individuals,” she said, “helping them launch businesses, shed over hundreds of pounds, rediscover their faith, break free from abusive relationships, secure green cards and visas, walk away from toxic jobs, complete marathons and triathlons, win multiple physique competitions, find love and even tie the knot.”

Diana Brooks, Empowerment of Hope: Ladies Clothing Drive

Having worked in the deathcare industry for more than 15 years, Diana Brooks encourages others to live every day to the absolute fullest. It’s advice that extends to the Empowerment of Hope: Ladies Clothing Drive, a charity event designed to uplift the female community. “Live unapologetically true to oneself,” Brooks said. “Think, ‘maybe I am not too extra. Maybe you’re just boring.’” If Brooks won the lottery tomorrow, she would continue organizing the event.  “It’s just something that brings me so much joy,” she said. 

Angel L. Cook, Leaders Insurance

Angel L. Cook credits the RAP House Youth Shelter for instilling in her confidence and a work ethic as a teenager. And she feels so fortunate to have found a career in insurance that has opened many more doors. “This career has allowed me to become active in my community — the same community that supported the RAP House that changed my life,” Cook said. “The minute I made that connection, there was no stopping me. I was and am determined to pay it forward for what this community did for me.” She has given back to organizations such as Community Service Council of West Pasco, Rotary Club of Holiday and the RAP House, just to name a few. 

Amanda Mantaporn, Amanda Mantaporn Licensed Health Insurance Agent

Amanda Mantaporn is a licensed health insurance agent, an ambassador with the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, board member for the G2 Community Youth Foundation and a mother. Being self-employed allows her to be the best mom she can be. She values the flexibility in being there for her daughter when she is needed. “My biggest philosophy is to be there when you say you will,” Mantaporn said. “I strive to be on time, to not ‘call out,’ and most importantly to say no when I have a prior obligation. Living with intention is a priority in my life.”

Published July 17, 2024