Interviews: Jorge Arauz
Photography: Julio Carlos
Hair & Makeup: melodie briere
Production Assistant & On-Site Stylist: Teri Caraballo
Videography: Macrofilms
Location: HGAB Studios
Mathew D’Adesky, 37
Founder
Sales Compass Consulting
Sales-Compass-Consulting.com
As a record-breaking sales executive with more than a decade of leadership experience, Mathew D’Adesky has worked in a variety of fields including the travel and hospitality industries, tech startups and major corporations including Royal Caribbean, Burger King and Brightline. Today, he offers on-demand fractional sales leadership to CEOs and emerging brands, guiding them to achieve their dreams. “My secret to success is having an unshakable belief in community,” he says. “I genuinely enjoy helping others and adding value to their lives.”
Michaeljohn Anthony Green, 39
Chief of Economic Development & Strategy
Miami Downtown Development Authority
MiamiDDA.com
Creating economic opportunities for people, companies and municipalities by designing solutions that drive growth, resilience and long-term prosperity, Michaeljohn Anthony Green thrives on turning potential into progress. There are countless exciting projects on the horizon — from shaping large-scale development initiatives to advising leaders on transformative plans of action. “Master the art of thinking long-term,” he says. “True leadership isn’t about quick wins — it’s about building something that lasts.”
Alejandra Abusada, 32
Director of Development
Miami Dade College Foundation
Foundation.MDC.edu
A philanthropist at heart, Alejandra Abusada works tirelessly to change lives. Through her role as Director of Development at MDC Foundation, she collaborates with the community to create strategic relationships and raise essential dollars for students to access excellent quality of education at Miami Dade College. “Always remain focused on your goals and dreams,” she says. “Even at your lowest moments, you still have something to offer the world.”
Diego Alirio Torrealba, 24
Executive VP/Managing Partner
MG Developer
MGDeveloperMiami.com
Taking his family’s real estate legacy to the next level at MG Developer, Diego Alirio Torrealba blends strategic vision with bold, modern development. “Every project we take on is about more than just aesthetics — it’s about impact, longevity, and elevating the way people experience spaces,” he says. “I’m here to push boundaries, set new standards, and ensure that what we build today creates lasting value.”
Angelica Fortney, 36
Partner
Akerman LLP
Akerman.com
At Akerman LLP, award-winning attorney Angelica Fortney works with public and private companies on the design implementation and administration of employee benefit plans, including retirement, health, welfare and executive compensation. “I love when a client who does not understand how to fix an issue comes away from our conversation with a clear mind and a game plan,” she says. “Growth is best approached with a collaborative mindset.”
Alexander Treibit, 31
Managing Partner
Boardwalk Trading
Boardwalk-Trading.com
As a trader arbitraging commodity products on the financial exchanges, Alexander Treibit works with firms in agriculture, metals and energy aiming to run a consistent operation unaffected by changes in the price of goods. “The market is the ultimate jury of whether you did well or not,” he says. “Just like math, there can be many ways to reach an answer — but there is only one correct solution!”
Jen Bouza, 34
VP, Sr. Relationship Manager
Global Commercial Banking
Bank of America
BankofAmerica.com
Supporting middle market clients in South Florida with annual revenues from $50 million to $2 billion, Jen Bouza helps her clients find the banking solutions that best fit their needs, including treasury management, loans and leases, risk management, investment banking, wealth management and workplace benefits. “What sets me apart is my ability to genuinely connect with people, build meaningful relationships and create an environment where my clients feel comfortable,” she says. “Being able to relate to others on a personal level helps foster trust and drive positive outcomes.”
Scott D. Clary, 34
Founder & Host
Success Story
ScottDClary.com; SuccessStoryPodcast.com
On his popular podcast, Success Story, Scott D. Clary “unpacks the playbooks, mindsets and success stories of the world’s highest achievers.” Six years, 600+ interviews and more than 50 million downloads later, he’s looking forward to launching more formats, more impact, more platforms, and deeper conversations. “Miami is a city of action that moves fast and rewards big thinking,” he says. “Be relentless. Be patient. And get really good at something that actually matters.”
Leigh-Ann Buchanan, 39
President & CEO
Miami-Dade Innovation Authority
MDIA.miami
Throughout her dynamic career, Leigh-Ann Buchanan has had the privilege of founding and leading a diverse portfolio of innovation-oriented initiatives including the Nyah Project, Tech Equity Miami, Opportunity Connect and Venture Café Miami. “People tend to believe that some of us are born with a special set of skills or an innate predisposition to being innovators,” she says. “The truth is that innovation is for everyone and, with the right guidance, anyone can discover their hidden innovator!”
Chris Altieri, 37
Clinical Operations Manager
Brickell Physical Therapy
Pinecrest PT Clinics
PinecrestPT.com
With a goal to empower his patients with the tools and knowledge they need to move better, feel better, and live without limitations, Chris Altieri, PT, DPT, helps people regain strength, mobility and confidence after an injury or surgery, guiding them back to their prior level of function, or even beyond. “Life’s golden rule is to do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” he says. “Be a good person and do right by others — if you do that then success will always find you.”
Dr. Taylor Light, 28
Dentist
Bayfront Dental
BayfrontDental.com
For Dr. Taylor Light, work is all about helping people smile — literally and figuratively! “Think of me as a smile architect, transforming everyday teeth into works of art!,” she says. In addition to her practice, she’s passionate about making dental care and education more accessible, especially for communities that need it most. “I regularly do outreach at schools to teach kids about oral health in fun and engaging ways,” she says. “Good habits start early!”
Derek Hedlund, 32
Executive Producer & Actor
MiamiViceEvents.com
A working actor who has successfully transitioned into producing events and projects he’s passionate about, Derek Hedlund looks forward to continuing his career’s exciting trajectory and momentum. As a child, he was inspired by characters he grew up watching in classic television shows and films. Following his artistic dreams and leaving a lasting legacy is paramount to everything he does. “Nothing is impossible,” he says. “If you truly want something, find a way to make it happen!”
Nicole M. Perez, 32
CEO
NMPP Consulting
NMPPConsulting.com
Helming a leading marketing agency specializing in the restaurant industry, Nicole M. Perez works with her clientele on social media management, content creation, graphic design, photoshoots and public relations to help elevate their brand presence in key markets around the world. “Always treat everyone with respect, regardless of their position — celebrities, employees, and anyone in between,” she says. “I’ve learned that sometimes the most unexpected people often turn out to be the greatest assets.”
Robert Budd, 31
Co-Founder
ProView Innovations
& Productive Degenerates
ProductiveDegenerates.com
A visionary with a passion for innovation and community, Robert Budd co-founded ProView Innovations, harnessing the power of data analytics to uncover hidden insights in healthcare by transforming raw data into actionable intelligence, paving the way for a healthier future. He also launched Productive Degenerates, a collaborative social brand for professionals who are serious about their careers and know how to enjoy the journey. “If you continue to work hard and believe in your goals, the universe will find a way to bring your dreams to life,” he says.
Daria Martorell, 31
Founder
Skin Healthy
SkinHealthyMiami.com
Thriving on transforming her clients into the best versions of themselves and helping them escape the stresses of life, Daria Martorell offers world-class experiences at her acclaimed Skin Healthy wellness spa with stunning results. “Self-care shouldn’t just be effective — it should also be rejuvenating,” she says. “Our approach blends cutting-edge skincare with a tranquil, spa-like atmosphere, giving our clients the best of both worlds: results and relaxation!”
Michelle Gonzalez, 39
Marketing Manager
SurGenTec
SurGenTec.com
Driving the marketing strategy for groundbreaking spine and orthopedic surgical technologies, Michelle Gonzalez bridges the gap between innovation and adoption, translating complex medical advancements into compelling, data-driven narratives that engage surgeons, healthcare providers and industry leaders. “Success comes from persistence, adaptability and continuous learning,” she says. “It’s about showing up, embracing challenges, and pushing beyond ‘good enough’ with resilience and hard work.”
Kai Hsu, 29
Vice President
J.P. Morgan Private Bank
PrivateBank.JPMorgan.com
As a dedicated private banker and wealth manager, Kai Hsu empowers individuals to optimize their personal balance sheets, seamlessly integrating public and private investment portfolios, credit facilities and charitable entities. “My expertise lies in crafting tailored financial strategies that not only enhance wealth preservation but also maximize tax efficiency,” he says. “By partnering with me, clients gain a trusted advisor committed to structuring their wealth in a way that aligns with their unique goals and aspirations toward a more secure and prosperous financial future.”
Jasmin Grant, 38
Sr. Director of Development
Baptist Health South Florida Foundation
BaptistHealth.net
In her role at Baptist Health South Florida Foundation, Jasmin Grant builds relationships and helps people make a difference in the community through philanthropy. “I enjoy meeting fascinating people from all backgrounds and having deep conversations about what motivates them to give back,” she says. “Everyone gives for different reasons, and it brings me so much joy to play a role in this important work.”
Jeronimo Mezzadra, 28
Sr. Business Development Manager
Hitss
GlobalHitss.us
Working on the sales side of IT consulting, Jeronimo Mezzadra focuses on digital transformation, helping CIOs and IT departments cut costs and optimize efficiency. Through his role at Hitss, he enjoys learning about different businesses and industries. “I always try to put myself in the role of the person I’m speaking to,” he says. “This allows me to visualize challenges and brainstorm solutions.”
Elizabeth Powers, 27
Business Communications Specialist
Miami Heat & Kaseya Center
Heat.com; KaseyaCenter.com
A PR pro in sports and entertainment, Elizabeth Powers finds unique ways to incorporate her passions into storytelling, managing off-court communications strategies in non-sports verticals including celebrity, fashion, lifestyle and philanthropy. Her interests are equally dynamic and include ballet, yoga, Pilates, reading, travel, chess, tennis and giving back — she’s been active in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami since 2020. “People want to get to know you, not the corporate stuffy version of you on LinkedIn,” she says. “Some of my most successful networking connections have developed into genuine friendships because we were authentically ourselves.”
