Leading Boldly
Miami native Maribel Pérez Wadsworth began her career at The Associated Press before joining Gannett, the nation’s largest newspaper publisher, beginning as a Reporter and culminating as President of Gannett Media and Publisher of USA Today. Today, she is President & CEO of Knight Foundation, where she also serves as a Trustee. Additionally, she is also on the Board of Trustees for the University of Miami and the Board of Directors of Pew Research Center, The Associated Press and Skillshare. “All too often, young people are told they need to wait their turn — for opportunities, for recognition, for success,” she says. “What I realized early in my career was that you have to create your own turn by doing the work, developing expertise, and raising your hand for an assignment, even if you’re not sure you’re ready. Create your turn by offering solutions, questioning the status quo, adapting to change and being resilient in the face of setbacks. Create your turn by showing what you’re made of!”; KF.org. Photo by Gesi Schilling
Spirit of Success
A seasoned serial entrepreneur, the career journey of Al Salas began at 14, when his work ethic at a Burger King restaurant caught the attention of Jim McLamore, the brand’s founding father. Under his mentorship, Salas became the youngest mini-area manager at 18. After studying accounting and working as a CPA on audits and SEC work for national clients, he was recruited back to Burger King, quickly ascending the corporate ladder. Soon after, PepsiCo tapped him as Director of Accounting & Finance for Pizza Hut, where he later became Division VP of Florida, overseeing 700 restaurants. Within 3 years, he put in a bid to purchase the South Florida market, becoming the largest Hispanic-owned Pizza Hut franchisee. Beyond business, Salas has remained a dedicated community leader, supporting organizations like Camillus House and United Way Miami. As Chair of the Miami Dade College Foundation, he advanced education and student success. Today, he inspires audiences through motivational speaking, blending insight, personal stories, and principles for growth. “Miami’s vibrant blend of cultures not only shaped my personal identity but also fueled my business approach,” he says. “It isn’t just a city — it’s a place where ambition meets opportunity, and where people lift each other up to succeed.”; PizzaHut.com. Photo by Edward Leal
Forever Forward
As Managing Partner of KPMG’s Miami office, Rodrigo Melendez leads a multidisciplinary team delivering audit, tax and advisory services to many of South Florida’s most prominent companies. With more than 20 years of experience at the company, he has advised clients across industries including transportation, media and consumer markets, while also serving as lead audit partner for several Fortune 500 companies. A University of Florida graduate with a degree in Finance & Accounting, and a licensed CPA, he has built his career on integrity, vision and a passion for mentorship. Beyond the office, he has dedicated nearly 20 years to serving on the Board of Voices For Children and is an active member of the Orange Bowl Committee, among other civic and professional organizations. A lifelong Miamian, he’s inspired by the city’s unique energy, a global crossroads where business, culture and innovation converge. “Always stay rooted in your values, establish your personal brand and reputation, and never underestimate the power of hard work,” he says. “Be bold, be ambitious, and always reach back to help the next person climb.”; KPMG.com. Photo by Edward Leal
