2025 SAO Human Trafficking Forum on Human Trafficking
Healthcare Heroes: Making a difference for survivors
January 21, 2025
12:00pm
University of Miami
Donna E. Shalala Student Center Complex
1330 Miller Drive
Coral Gables, FL 33146
For additional information and registration: https://www.sonhs.miami.edu/saofirum/
Dr. Dominguez-Liria is passionate about health leadership. I am committed to transforming lives through my advocacy philosophy and innovative program development. With a strong background in leadership and extensive experience as a researcher, I specialize in addressing systemic deficiencies in the healthcare arena and the inequities affecting diverse communities. Dr. Dominguez-Liria has been a nursing professional in various clinical settings in nursing, education, and leadership roles nationwide for 15 years. My strategic approach blends with the principles of a transformational leader innovation to be a role model to solve complex issues and drive positive changes with enthusiasm to reach organizational goals. Additionally, I am an adjunct faculty member at Miami Dade College, a School of Nursing specialist in mentorship, advocating for professionalism and commitment to patients, nurses, students, doctors, and any ancillary healthcare professionals. Currently, as clinical coordinator of the peri-operative services, I lead the delivery of high-quality patient-centered care and coordination of all department functions in collaboration with the director, doctors, and anesthesiologists. The CNC directs, monitors, and evaluates nursing care per the organization’s established policies and rules. I serve as a resource person for staff and model a commitment to the organization’s vision, mission, and values to support unparalleled patient experience and clinical outcomes that contribute to overall optimum departmental performances. Dr. Dominguez-Liria is currently working with the organization to obtain the most prestigious designation for Magnet initiatives and unit-based quality improvement projects. 2012 Dr. Dominguez-Liria was recognized as the “March of Dimes Nurse of the Year.”
Dr. Dominguez-Liria is enrolled in the nurse practitioner program at Miami Regional University Alma Matter with anticipated graduation in May 2025. Dr. Dominguez-Liria graduated from the University of Phoenix with a two-year postgraduate certificate, specializing in healthcare administration.
Vanessa Chacon is the Deputy Education Director at the GIF Foundation, where she passionately supports and educates the community about gun violence awareness. As a dedicated special needs advocate, she assists parents in finding valuable resources and provides essential emotional support for families with children who have special needs.
In addition to her role at GIF Foundation, Vanessa owns a document preparation company that services the community by helping individuals fill out important paperwork, apply for jobs, and interpret various documents. She is also a Notary Public, offering reliable notarial services to those in her community. As an interpreter and owner of a translation business, Vanessa serves a diverse range of families in need of assistance on a daily basis, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder access to vital resources and support.
Vanessa has developed a deep compassion and empathy for victims and survivors. This dedication drives her ongoing work throughout the community, where she strives to make a positive impact.
Dr. Tania Guerrier Castor, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a doctorate in nursing. Dr. Castor is the founder of Clear Path Wellness Lounge, a mental health practice established in 2022, where she emphasizes the uniqueness of every individual. Specializing in the assessment of bio-psycho-social factors, with a particular focus on trauma, she helps clients navigate mental health challenges. Serving individuals aged 5 to 85, Dr. Castor supports those seeking a path to recovery and mental well-being following traumatic experiences. She is an expert in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medication management, equipping her clients with the tools they need to cope with life’s stressors. Dr. Castor is passionate about fostering self-awareness, building self-esteem, teaching distress tolerance, and guiding her clients in using cognitive strategies to manage stress an
Claire is the ambassador for the Global Initiative Foundation. She attends the accelerated magnet program as a sophomore at Florida Atlantic University High School, as well as earning credits from Florida Atlantic University bachelor’s degree under the university’s dual enrollment program. She began taking university-level courses when she was in the ninth grade, earning both high school and college credits simultaneously. FAU High School emphasizes a highly selective enrollment process, a rigorous academic curriculum, fostering intellectual growth and preparing students for competitive higher education and career paths.
Claire works in a graduate-level medical research lab at FAU Schmidt College of Medicine multiple times weekly. Her current research projects focus on neuroscience studies on treatments for stroke and Alzheimer’s. Enthusiastic about helping others, she volunteers at Northeast Focal Point Alzheimer’s and Adult Day Care at Braithwaite Center for Active Aging.
Ms. Falcon is a high-performance outside hitter with both the varsity volleyball team at FAU High School and a national team at Tribe Volleyball Club. Tribe Volleyball Club is a nationally recognized program with over two hundred college commitments and several national championship titles. Her club team has won bids twice in the Junior Olympic Nationals to compete with the best teams around the country. Claire is a recognized volleyball athlete by media including Palm Beach Post and Sun Sentinel. She has been ranked as the top ten athlete based on hitting ratios in Florida by MaxPrep.
Ms. Falcon is the Social Media Specialist Manager of the Chinese Association of Science, Education and Culture of South Florida. She is a recipient of the Social Media Specialist Scholarship and won 2023-2024 Community Service Award. Claire was the President-elect of the National Junior Honor Society at Jupiter Middle School.
Claire plays the piano and enjoys playing both classical and jazz pieces. She is a member of HOSA: Future Health Professionals and is inspired to attend medical school to become a surgeon. Ms. Falcon maintains a current semester weighted GPA of 6.0 out of 4.0.
Marie O. Etienne, DNP, APRN, FNP, PNP, D. Min. (h.c.), PLNC is a tenured full Professor of Nursing at Miami Dade College (MDC) Benjamín Léon School of Nursing. She entered the realm of academics at Miami Dade College in 1997 as an Adjunct Faculty and became a Full-time Faculty in 1999. Herexperience includes pediatrics, geriatrics, family practice, community health nursing, leadership, andcourse developer of online teaching for the RN-BSN program at the College. She is a certified Professional Legal Nurse Consultant. Dr. Etienne earned the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from University of Miami in 2010. In 2017, Dr. Etienne received an Honorary Doctorate for her Outstanding Ministries in Christian Education and was ordained as a Pastor into Christian Ministry on Saturday, May25, 2019, from Trinity Theological Seminary of South Florida. Dr. Etienne is the President of Haitian Alliance Nurses Association International – An umbrella organization consisting of all the (9) chaptersof the Haitian American Nurses Association (HANA) 2018-2023. Dr. Etienne is past President of HANAof Florida (2005-2007), and Chairwoman of the Haitian American Professionals Coalition (2008-2010).
Dr. Etienne serves as the first Elected Chairwoman of the City of North Miami Commission of Women(CFW) (2022-2024). Dr. Etienne She is the Immediate Past President of the Miami Chapter – Black Nurses Association and is a Trailblazer Awardee (2012) and Lifetime Member of the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA). Dr. Etienne is the Founding President of Alpha Beta Epsilon at Large (Miami Dade College & Baptist Health South Florida Sigma Chapter (2022-2024). Dr. Etienne served as the Elected Director of the South Region Florida Nurses Association (FNA) 2019-2021. Dr. Etienne serves as the Chairwoman of the Haitian American Faith-Based Network, Inc. In August 2023, Dr. Etienne was electedas one of the Board of Directors for the National Black Nurses Association (2023-2025). Dr. Etienneserves as the President-Elect FNA (2021-2023). Dr. Marie Osline Etienne was installed as the firstMinority Nurse to serve as the President of FNA (2023-2025) in its history.
Dr. Etienne is the 2007 recipient of the MDC Stanley G. Tate and Family Endowed Teaching Chair for Excellence in Academia. She received many distinguished awards locally, nationally, and internationallyincluding special tribute and congressional record for her outstanding services in the community. First Inductee of HANA’s Wall of Fame Award (2011); One out of 32 recipients worldwide; Dr. Etiennewas among Five (5) Recipients from the United States to receive the 2013 Florence Nightingale Medalby the International Red Cross – The highest recognition in the nursing profession; Recipient of the Marie Claire Heureuse Award from FANM; the 2014 Top Educators in Miami by Legacy Magazine; one of Great 100 Nurses of Florida by FNA (2013). She is a Medical Reserve Corps of the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County. In the spirit of community impact for underserved populations, In August2019, Dr. Etienne and several distinguished professionals/Leaders founded Global Innovative Foundation, Inc., a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization to create global awareness for the prevention ofcrimes with the mission to empower survivors of Human Trafficking, Domestic Violence, and Gun Violence through support, education, and scholarships. She is the Founder, President & CEO of Global Innovative Foundation (GIF). Dr. Etienne’s passion has been serving the underserved populations andempowering others to succeed. She provides mentorship & scholarship for Survivors of Human Trafficking to enable them to reach their full potential.
Dr. Etienne’s most recent awards include the Daisy Award for being an extraordinary faculty, January2019, Unsung Hero Award by Miami-BNA, May 2019, Health Care Hero Finalist by Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce; and the 2019 Faculty Changemaker of the year Award of the Miami Dade College – Medical Campus, Florida Action Coalition “Most Valuable Leader”, October 2019, the 2019Lifetime Achievement Awardee by the Community Health and Empowerment Network, recipient of the Good Samaritan Award of the Year 2019 – Schulz Foundation. The “Women Humanitarian Award” by Life Changing Anointing of Fort Lauderdale, March 8, 2020. She was honored as the “2020 & 2021 Nurse ofthe Year” by the National Center of the Haitian Apostolate. In May 2021, Dr. Etienne was selected as a May Week Award Recipient in the area of International Awareness and Involvement by Dade County Alumnae Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In May 2022, Dr. Etienne was the recipient of theLifetime Achievement Award by the Miami Chapter – Black Nurses Association and Outstanding Leadership Award from HANA of Palm Beach, May 2023. On June 28, 2023, Dr. Etienne was honoredwith the 2023 Spirit of Community Award by the Florida Commission on the Status of Women. Dr. Etienne is a community trailblazer, a thought leader in Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion (JEDI),leadership development, and advocacy. As a transformational and servant leader, Dr. Etienne’s ultimate goal is to inspire others to becomesocial innovators, leaders and changemakers in their respective communities.
Dr. Danay Rodriguez-Arritola has been in healthcare for 18 years. She has an extensive educational background and is a Miami Dade College Alumni, receiving an Associate in Legal Studies in 1993 and an Associate in Nursing in 2004. In 2011 she received her Bachelor’s In Nursing from Western Governors University and in 2016 was awarded a Master’s in Nursing and her Nurse Practitioner License in 2017. In 2021 she received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice and in 2023 a Master’s in Business Administration from Mami Regional University.
She has worked for several healthcare organizations such as Hialeah Hospital – Tenet Healthcare, Memorial Miramar, and Larkin Community Hospital where she is the Chief Nursing Officer. Dr. Rodriguez-Arritola has also been an adjunct professor at Miami Regional University.
During her work tenure, she has been recognized by her organizations and has received the following awards.
Tenet
Memorial Hospital Miramar
Dr. Rodriguez-Arritola also spends a lot of time serving the community, she established the iMater Quinceanera Ball in 2014 which benefits young ladies looking for their dream debutant ball. Today she is engaged in community service by partnering with local partners or by creating events such as food drives, toy drives, cloth drives, and backpack drives for those who need it. She has created teams in order to go to Miami Rescue Mission to help serve food at their dining area as well as visited Camillus House and donated clothes and shoes.
Her passion for helping others goes internationally as she also works to help children in the Dominican Republic working with De Lo Mio Organization. Being a mother of four she understands that children are the future and works to support many children in need.
Griselle Marino, a multi-Emmy Award-winning journalist, boasts a career spanning three decades. Her interviews include notable personalities such as His Serene Highness Albert II, the late Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbachev, the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa, and Lord Charles Spencer, brother of the late Princess Diana. While serving as a weekend news anchor and weekday reporter, she delved into the end-of-life legal debate of Terri Schiavo, reported on the death of Pope John Paul II, and investigated the disappearances and murders of Jessica Lunsford and Natalie Holloway. Marino also navigated through significant events, covering the South Florida angle of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the 2000 presidential election, and the Elian Gonzalez legal saga. Her efforts to reunite a local Hispanic mother with her abducted daughters in the Middle East gained recognition in Congress. After 21 years, they reunited with the help of social media. Marino’s 1993 exposé on Cuba’s HIV-positive population’s confinement led the United Nations to declare it a human rights violation. In acknowledgment of her achievements and dedication, Florida International University inducted her into the Alumni Hall of Fame at the Lee Caplin School of Journalism and Media in 2022.
Marino’s career in the public sector began in 2004 when she joined the Miami-Dade County Aviation Department as a public affairs officer, where she also provided valuable assistance to the protocol division. Throughout her career with the County, she held pivotal positions, including media and public affairs manager at Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the Office of Emergency Management. At the Office of the Chair’s Media Division, she served under the chairmanship of Bruno A. Barreiro and was the assistant director of media for Dennis C. Moss and the director of media for Jean Monestime during their respective tenures at the helm of the Board of County Commissioners. She hosted TV shows for MDTV, co-hosted on WLRN-PBS, and assisted the Miami-Dade School Police Communications Division in 2017.
In 2018, she returned to the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, this time serving as communications and media director for the Office of Community Advocacy. Marino oversees the external affairs of 12 advisory boards, including the Asian-American, Black Affairs, Commission for Women, Community Relations, Domestic Violence Oversight, Elderly Affairs, Hispanic Affairs, Interfaith, LGBTQIA+, Military Affairs, Dr. Antonio Jorge Social and Economic Development Council, and South Dade Black History Center advisory boards, as well as the Goodwill Ambassadors Program.
Marino earned an associate degree in business administration from Miami Dade College and a bachelor’s degree from FIU in communications with a minor in English, plus two years of legal studies at FIU’s College of Law Legal Studies Institute. She worked as a litigation paralegal for attorney Roy Black and as a private investigator. She holds a real estate license, which she actively maintained from 1989 to 2011 and resumed in 2021 to assist family and friends. Proficient in English and Spanish, with a working knowledge of French and Portuguese, she diligently connects with Miami-Dade’s diverse cultures.
Through the years, she has received multiple recognitions, including a 2017 FEMA appointment in the External Affairs cadre to help our country in a time of need, and in 2020, she won the “In the Company of Women” prestigious award in the category of communications and literature. She has supported the American Cancer Society for more than 30 years and has been on the Board of Ambassadors for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer since 2007. She also contributes her expertise as a member of the FIU Dean’s Advisory Board since 2021, and as a Goodwill Ambassador since 2017. Noticing Marino’s exceptional skills, the Global Innovative Foundation appointed her external affairs director and advocacy deputy director in 2023.
Marino credits her strength during challenging times to her deep faith in God and thanks her parents, Tia Ellita, mentors, supervisors and friends for their invaluable support. Her adult sons, David and Daniel, are her constant source of inspiration, bringing her immense pride and joy. Frequently perceived as a global ambassador, Marino makes a lasting impact by consistently bringing attention to vital issues and promoting positive change through her impassioned advocacy. Her enduring quest for knowledge remains fundamental in shaping her successful career.
Jacqueline Exceus is excited to be a part of Global Innovative Foundation. She is currently serving as the Director of Education for Global Innovative Foundation, Vice President of Faculty Senate at Florida National University, and At Large Board Member with The Children’s Trust. She has been a FNU Faculty since the Summer of 2020. Jacqueline enjoys lecturing, serving the community, and helping children in need volunteering in the past with organization like Mandodo, and Friends of Oleta.
Born in Miami, Florida, with parents from Haiti, Jacqueline is well-oriented with all Caribbean Diasporas in the US. Earning a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, with a certificate of Forensic Technology Investigations from Nova Southeastern University in June 2011.
As a retired Crime Scene Investigator with over 10 years of experience working at the City of Miami Department, City of Miramar Police Department, and Miami-Dade County Medical Examiners Department she enjoys investigating. In addition, she is super passionate about the law. Jacqueline loves her community where she advocates against crimes involving gun violence, engages in Civic Engagement with the National Urban League, and helps victims of child abuse gain access to resources at Kristi House.
Sandra Justice is an award winning actress, producer, and event host. With a charismatic and dynamic personality, Sandra’s stage presence is mesmerizing. It is no surprise that Sandra is a former Miss Haiti South Florida. From stage plays to films to television series and commercials, her love affair with the camera has been explosive. Sandra has always had an interest in the entertainment industry. She began with music where she incorporated her natural acting ability into portraying the lyrics of each song. In high school, Sandra took her acting abilities to the stage play, “Black in Time,” with a starring role as the illustrious Billy Holiday. She was officially bitten by the acting bug. Sandra began her acting career on the set of the 2005 film, “Miami Vice,” starring Jamie Foxx and Colin Farrell. She later moved on to “Step Up Revolution” with Adam G. Sevani and Ryan Guzman; “Under Construction” produced by Spot Lite Images and Concord Film Lifetime movies, “The Boyfriend Killer” and “Marriage Killer Sandra has also had feature roles in television series such as The Glades, a crime drama with Kiele Sanchez and Carlos Gomez; and Burn Notice, a sexy, action-packed series with Jeffrey Donovan and Fiona Glenanne. Feature roles in commercials include Mardi Gras Casino and the Westin Diplomat. Influenced by Angela Bassett, Halle Berry, and Angelina Jolie, you can bet Sandra brings dynamism, versatility and confidence to every role.
She is passionate about her art and is able to skillfully pull from life experiences to relate to a variety of characters. Sandra is known to improvise spontaneously as opportunities arise to bring a dose of reality to her roles. Sandra’s talents naturally transfer to hosting events where she keeps her audience engaged. She has hosted events such as, Fashion for a Cause by Bravo’s Married to Medicine Reality Star Lisa Nicole Cloud, Haitian American Kompa Festival 2015, The Red Dress Soiree with CBS 10 News Anchor Eric Yutz , and co-hosted Angie Nicolas’ Super Soul Empowerment Brunch. Sandra was also host of the 2016 Haitian Heritage Celebration held by the City of Miramar and Mayor Wayne M. Messam. Sandra’s current projects include producing “The Sandra Justice Show” Where she keeps it real discussing real issues and possible ways to solve them, Lunerversal Film Productions film, “Loving Til It Hurts,” a story about domestic violence; a feature role in “The Unknowns: Talent is Colorblind,” based on a true story produced by Top Cat Productions; and a feature role in “When Good Men Are Tempted,” a spicy stage play produced by Godz Sun Productions. Sandra has also done Television commercials for FOX TV Audi car commercial, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Weston Diplomat Hotel and Mardi Gra Casino just to name a few. Sandra can also be spotted in countless music videos such as Atlantic Record national recording artist Brandy Norwood and Sir the The Baptist “Deliver Me”, Gazzman Couler “Poukissa” and more. Sandra Justice can currently be seen in the Award Winning Webseries Bae Night directed by Luner Eugene a UniVisual Production. Sandra Justice can be reached at
www.sandrajustice.com sandrajusticellc@gmail.com
Website:
Www.sandrajustice.com
IMDB
http://m.imdb.com/name/nm6594327
Www.BaeNight.com
Instagram
Justice2all
Sophisticated and savvy, engaging and entertaining, and all-around sweetheart, Delpha Samuels, one of the “Barbie Twins,” is one of the most sought after talents and gifts in the entertainment and fashion industries today.
She is a take-charge business-woman, speaker and media personality who expertly balances career, ministry, and family.
She has been in the public eye for more than a decade, gaining initial fame and becoming a 21st Century pop culture icon, as an actress, spokesmodel, fashion designer, TV Host and entrepreneur.
As a renowned television personality, Delpha has appeared on NBC, WSFL, Cake Hunters and the nationally syndicated Steve Harvey TV Show.
Alongside her husband, Apostle Dr. Glenton Samuels, Pastor Delpha serves in ministry as the Co-Pastor & First Lady of Life-Changing Anointing of Fort Lauderdale and the Director of Women’s Ministry, creating programs and outlets to celebrate feminine intellect and brilliance, bringing life, health, and wholeness to the female soul.
Co-Chair of Public Relations & Media Relations
As the co-founder and owner of D&D Couture, Incorporated, Delpha runs an international-wide boutique alongside her twin sister Delerice where they expand their brand through various lines, such as jewelry, cosmetics, clothing and the all-new Couture Lips lipstick line.
As an active philanthropist, Delpha is an advocate for the American Heart Association, a member of the Ronald McDonald House Red Shoe Society and a partner of the Miami Dade Public School System.
Earning her undergraduate degree, Delpha is not only an advocate for education, but she is a voice to the socioeconomic systems of the world.
She has been featured in various movie commercials, such as Zanmi The Movie and “The Hollywood Live” club commercial. Not only is she starring in the upcoming web series Baenight also most recently released series on Amazon Prime Tv Loving Until it Hurts Delpha also stars in the movie “Loving Zanmi” starring Delpha, unfolding a seat-edging story about romance, scandal and heartbreak.
She has also been headlined in various magazines, to include Shades Wedding Magazine, Hype Hair Magazine, Miami Style Magazine, Hair Diva Magazine and Black Women Style Report.
Delpha has been involved in the pageant industry for almost two decades, wearing many hats which have included anywhere from being a pageant director, judge and pageant coach.
Delpha is the reigning Mrs. Florida International
As a national titleholder, has held such titles as Miss Christian Florida, Miss Fort Lauderdale, Miss Runway, Ms. Florida Beautiful, Ms. International Beautiful, Miss Gospel International and Mrs. Florida Excellence. Currently, Delpha is the reigning Mrs. Florida International.
At present, Delpha is the international co-producer and director of the Miss Ambassador International Pageant System, a not-for-profit mentorship association, with a vision to share what is natural through a living grace of young ladies, to ensure self-worth, self-esteem and family values. Delpha believes in promoting positive life experiences through the events that they run.
Amidst her many amazing talents, accolades, accomplishments and spirits of philanthropy, their lives are sincerely a testament of God’s favor and unconditional love. She lives to be an example to others and continues to be that example with each passing day. As a woman indeed of value, virtue, and potency, her beauty on the outside is no match for the inner beauty they bare, that displays in every aspect of her life
Katia Saint Fleur has over a decade of experience in Florida government and politics. Katia is a journalist by trade and first came into the political arena as a media and community outreach campaign consultant, since then she has worked in almost every capacity from Communications Director, Political Director to Campaign Manager. Katia is currently the principal of the governmental affairs firm, KSF & Associates. She truly believes that our Political system is starving for diversity. One of her many goals is to educate and encourage women and minorities to get involved politically, be it by working for an elected official, becoming an elected official or becoming a lobbyist.
Katia is a proud graduate of Clark Atlanta University, and carries the school motto with her in everything that she does: “Find a way or make a way.”
During her off hours, she works with local organizations in South Florida to assist women in regaining their stability and independence who have suffered from domestic violence. And she also works very closely with an orphanage in her parents’ home country of Haiti.
Maria Hidalgo is a VITAS Volunteer Services Manager/Community Relations. In 2016, Ms. Hidalgo was certified as National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional at Tampa University. In addition, she is an Ordained Minister and Chaplain since 2011 through United Chaplains International. Also, Ms. Hidalgo completed the Florida Department of Childrens and Families Share Your Heart Chaplaincy Program in 2013. She is an Instructor of Marketing/Special Events/Media Course for the Florida Association of Nonprofits – Certificate of Nonprofit Management – Nova Southeastern University & Broward College. Ms. Hidalgo is a Miami-Dade Alumni (Business Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, and Advertising).
She has over 30 years of experience in public relations, marketing, advertising, government relations and fundraising. She produces and co-hosts a weekly Spanish community service radio program on WRHC 1550AM, “SIN FRONTERAS” (Without Frontiers); Produced and co-hosted “Celebrating Life” on WQBA Univision Radio; and spearheaded the MEGA Creole program on 1020 AM and 1700AM through the Association of Haitian Physicians Abroad.
Ms. Hidalgo has been active in her community through her engagement in various organizations/associations. In addition, she has held a number of leadership roles such as Florida Association of Non-Profit Organizations – Chairperson (2015-Present); Latino Center on Aging National Advisory Committee and Gala Chairperson (2015-2018); Health Council of South Florida Policy & Planning Committee (2012-Present); Certified Community Health Worker Advisory Committee (2010-Present); Consortium for a Healthier Miami-Dade/Mayor’s Initiative on Aging – Elder Issues Committee (2010-Present) – Alliance for Aging – Advocacy & Education Committee, Events Committees, Speaker’s Bureau, (2007-Present); CMS Atlanta / Dallas – Advisory Committee (2007-Present); American Cancer Society Volunteer Leadership Board (2014 – Present); American Cancer Society – Relay for Life Hialeah Chair (2012 & 2013); American Heart Association Cultural Diversity Advisory Committee (2016 – Present); Hialeah Mayor’s Faith Committee (2015–Present); Greater Miami Hispanic Ministers Association Member (2015-Present); Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk VITAS Chair (2012-Present)
She has been recognized at the national and state level for community service. Some of these acknowledgments are Hispanic Women’s Society- 2017 Women Empowering & Embracing Women Award; Latino Center on Aging Golden Age Award 2015 for Community Advocate of the Year; Hialeah-Pan American Lions Club “Lion of the Year Award (2015); South Florida Hispanic Chamber Sunshine Awards 2013 for the Community Health Advocate of the Year; Consortium for a Healthier Miami-Dade/Mayor’s Initiative on Aging Elder Issues Award 2010 & 2012 and the Community Partner Award 2013; Minority Chamber of Commerce- 2013 “National Community Woman of the Year” Award and 2012 “Latina of the Year” Award; American Cancer Society Awards: “Exceptional Achievement” Award and “Highest Percentage Over Goal”, Chair, Relay for Life Hialeah 2014; The Women’s Power Caucus Quiet Storm Award 2012; Alliance for Aging “Medicare Part D Advocacy” Award 2008
Marjorie Lozama, a native of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, immigrated to South Florida in 1986. She began her Nursing career as a Licensed Practical Nurse and later graduated from Miami Dade College with an Associate Degree in Nursing. She continued her studies and graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further obtained her Master of Science in Nursing and Health Care Education from University of Phoenix. She recently completed a Post Master Certificate as a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Florida International University. Marjorie is a licensed Qualified Rehabilitation Provider for the State of Florida and holds a Certification as a Disability Management Specialist. Marjorie is also a Miami Dade County Medical Corp Reserved. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society.
Marjorie’s nursing experience includes many areas; Medical-Surgical Nursing; Acute and Long-Term Rehabilitation, Hospice and Home Care and Case Management. She is currently working as a Field Nurse Case Manager for Coventry Worker’s Compensation Services. She is a remarkable community volunteer who has donated countless hours to help improve and enrich the lives of those around her. She contributed actively in establishing the “Man Dodo Humanitarian Foundation”, a non-profit organization with the sole objective of extending a helping hand to the underprivileged families in the southern regions of Haiti. Marjorie has organized and led multiple medical missions to Haiti bringing emergency food, medical relief, and toys to some of the poorest communities. She also volunteered her services to aid in the relief effort of the victims of January 2010 devastating Earthquake. She is the current treasurer for Man Dodo Humanitarian Foundation.
She co-founded The Literary Soul book club in 2005, a women group primarily of Haitian descent dedicated to literature and committed to providing educational mentorship to underprivileged children and promoting literacy in poor local communities.
Marjorie has been a dynamic member of the Haitian American Nurses Association (HANA) since 2009. She served in many capacities as 2nd Vice-President (2011-2013) and Chair of the Activities/Gala committee (2010-2013). She successfully led the Haitian American Nurses Association (HANA) as President in 2013-2015. She is currently the Chair of the International Affairs Committee for HANA. Marjorie is a member of the Women Advisory Counsel at the Bridge Church, a women ministry, designed to help women make everyday life fuller, richer and have a deeper purpose in everything they do, and energy to thrive. Marjorie is a board member of Rebati Santé Mental, an organization dedicated to establish an effective mental health system in Haiti. She is also an advisor for Sant La Fellows, a program that prepares and supports young professional of Haitian descent that has a passion to serve and be engaged in the Haitian community.
Marjorie’s achievements have been recognized and honored by multiple organizations. Her most recent recognition in November 2018, she received a proclamation from Senator Daphne Campbell District 38, for her many professional achievements in health care and her dedication for community service. She also received The Global Health Award from HANA in November 2018 for her engagement and contributions to eradicate health disparities to the underserved population nationally and internationally. She received The Heroin Mom Award in May 12, 2018 from Pink, Pumps and Pearls for her role as a special mom who has diligently raised her children while actively serving the community. Furthermore, in October 2017 she has received the Distinguished Leadership Award from Rebati Santé for her contribution and support of the highest ideas and principles of mental health and well-being. In March 2017 she received the Marie Claire Heureuse Leadership Award from FANM Aysisyen Nan Miyami for her outstanding contributions and pioneering leadership in building a dynamic and thriving community. In April 2016, she received Award of Appreciation for outstanding dedication and leadership to the nursing profession and community from State Representative Daphne Campbell, District 108. In November 2015 she received the Leadership Award from Institute De Nursing Rosetti Poletti in Haiti for her hard work and support receiving nursing students from Haiti. She was the March of Dimes Finalist in the area of Leadership in October 2015. In March 2015 she was one of the finalists of the Registered Nurse Practice Award for the Florida Nurses Association. In April 2014, she received the Leadership Award from her peers for her outstanding leadership as president of HANA. In May 2014, she received the Woman of Value Award from the Haitian American Historical Society for her devotion, loyalty and dedicated services to the health and well-being of the community. In May 2013, she received the Outstanding Community Service Award from Phoenix University for the extensive hours spent serving the community. In 2012 she was selected as one of ten finalists for the “Amazing Nurse Contest” by Johnson & Johnson. In 2012 she also received the “Leadership Award” from AEDAP for her outstanding leadership skills in the Haitian community. In April 2012, HANA awarded Marjorie “The President’s Choice Award” for her continuous passion, commitment, and dedicated services to the community and HANA. In 2011, she was honored March of Dimes “Nurse of Year” in Case Management. In 2010 she was nominated Nurse of the Year by her peers because of her dedication and commitment to HANA. Marjorie fully and whole-heartedly dedicates herself to whatever task/projects she undertakes. She strongly believes that anyone can make a difference and her enthusiasm is contagious and has influenced the people around her to participate and be more involved in their community. She lives by and takes to heart the following quote “Anybody can be great because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love”. Martin Luther King Jr.
As a childhood survivor of human trafficking, I was disenrolled from Miami-Dade County public school at the age of sixteen due to attendance issues. No one asked why. I was in honor classes and loves school. I also dreamt of being a teacher or nurse. Once I got of the lifestyle without any resources or support I was determined not to sell myself to survivor and provide for my family. I returned back to school and became a medical assistant. This was the first stepping stone into my career future and financial stability. After 15 years of that career I furthered my education to become a licensed practical nurse in which I am currently employed at the University of Miami T.H.R.I.V.E Clinic. My long term dream is to become a nurse practitioner. My next step is to complete a register nursing program.
Almost one year ago in 2018, I met Dr. Marie Etienne, I began to share with her my desire to return back to school. I also told her that I was paying out of pocket and had no money to continue at this time. Dr. Etienne began to do some work. I was honored to be the recipient at the first annual Global Innovative Foundation (Power and Influence Luncheon). I was awarded with a check of two thousand five hundred dollars to apply towards my education. She then continued to form Global Innovative Foundation in which I am the Director of Advocacy.
I will begin school at Miami Dade College in January 2020 on my journey to further my education. I want to thank Dr. Marie Etienne and Global Innovative Foundation for investing into my future.
Dr. Margareth Reed, Is well known locally and internationally for her abilities to move the audience with her contagious vivacity, whether it’s through her Singing, Coaching or Speaking. Dr. Reed is a Brandologist, Anthologist, Writer, Author, Speaker, and Inventor’s coach.She is the inventor, and owner of Mamelle Pads, two products created and patented for Breast MRI Patients on 3 Tesla Magnet and other modalities. She is an Entrepreneur, Life, Personal, Business, and Ministry Branding Coach, above all a Woman of God.
Dr. Reed, received an Honorary Doctorate for her Outstanding Ministries in Christian Education from Trinity Theological Seminary of South Florida. Dr. Reed received many distinguished awards locally. She is the CEO of MR Enterprises Biz a branding .The Reed’s Artscademy to coach writers, speakers, authors and inventors.
Dr. Reed is the CEO behind the “Women Breathe Again” Book Anthologies and products. A powerful spiritual movement getting women back healthy in mind, spirit, body, and faith while restoring their glory according to 1 Corinthians 11:15.
She truly believe women needs to breathe again, and that’s why she joined Global Innovative Foundation, Inc. so she can continue to serve other women who are crime survivors.
Her leadership and branding skills will equip and coach women to write and prepare bundles around their story to speak and motivate other survivors.
At the tender age of three months, Rachel Tourgeman migrated from Panama, together with her parents and five siblings, literally with just the clothes on their backs. Rachel grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and at the age of 14, she moved to Surfside, Florida. Rachel graduated magna cum laude from Florida International University and is certified as a nonviolence trainer and as a standards and training instructor by the State of Florida Commission on Criminal Justice. She is presently engaged and has a beautiful 20 year old daughter, who is her pride and joy.
For over thirty years, Rachel Tourgeman has been recognized and admired for her excellence in teaching and promoting community education and awareness. In 1995, former President Bill Clinton recognized her for developing an outstanding intergroup relations program. The prestigious Carl Bertelslmann Foundation in Denmark also commended Rachel for her model programs in the USA. While working at the Miami Dade County Police Department, Rachel had the unique opportunity to also create and implement curriculums which she taught to sworn police officers, as well as to sworn and non-sworn personnel from County’s Corrections and Rehabilitation Departments. Her courses included conflict resolution, group facilitation, anger management, domestic violence, self-esteem, and team building among others.
Throughout the years, Rachel has been a vibrant voice and face on television and radio shows. Recently she completed a series of TV informative educational shows entitled: Simplemente Ser Mujer or Simply Being a Woman. Rachel retired from a distinguished career with Miami-Dade County and is presently the Community Relations Director at Florida National University (FNU), where she works very closely with hospitals, the private sector, community leaders and community-based organizations in providing young minds the opportunity to reach their dreams and potentials through education and perseverance. As FNU’s Community Relations Director, Rachel has received widespread acclaim for creating the POWERHOUSE. The POWERHOUSE is composed of Law Enforcement Officials at the Local, State and Federal levels; Religious leaders, Educators, Corporate and Non-Profit entities, Firefighters, Elected Officials, other universities, various Nurses Associations, and the list goes on… Educational Walks and Rallies are orchestrated in the areas of Human Trafficking, Missing Children and Domestic and Teen Dating Violence. These pertinent events play an instrumental role in saving the lives of our children, youth and families. Consequently, she is a proud recipient of numerous awards for her distinguished role in helping to eradicate these crimes from our local and global spheres.
Community, Civic and Professional involvement:
Homeland Security – Human Trafficking Task Force
Hispanic Coalition
Entre Nosotras
Centro Cristiano Adonai
Erase Child Trafficking
Toys for Kids Miami Foundation
The Women’s Fund Miami-Dade
The Red Carnation Queens Association
Domestic Violence Sexual & Assault Council (DVSAC)
Chambers of Commerce – The South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; The Hialeah Chamber of Commerce and Industries; The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce; The North Miami Chamber of Commerce and The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce.
Recent Awards, recognitions and tributes:
South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce – Outstanding Hispanic Community Relations Leadership Award
Imagen Hialeah Magazine – Featured as a successful Hispanic Woman
Toys for Kids Miami Foundation – Award – Outstanding Community Relations Recognition
Doral Journal Newspaper – Tribute received for National Women’s History Month
City of North Miami Mayor and Council Members – Award/Tribute – for outstanding Community Relations Initiatives in honor of National Women’s History Month
Florida Association of Post Secondary Schools and Colleges – Education Community Leadership Award
Coffee Break with Charlie – Award in recognition of creating awareness on morally compelling issues
El Vocero Newspaper – Tribute to our events
Hispanic Women of Distinction Award
Miami Chapter Black Nurses Association and the National Black Nurses Association – Community Action Award
The Magazine- Featured in the Front Cover of Magazine for Domestic Violence Month, with personal interview inside the publication, as well as ample coverage of the POWERHOUSE
Southeastern Conference SDA Prayer Summit –Award/Tribute- Community Service Award
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Council (DVSAC)- Award for playing a major role in planning the 2018 Domestic Violence Summit
Conferencias Impactantes USA Award– recognition for my excellent leadership throughout our diverse communities
Constance is a retired Full Professor in the Benjamín León School of Nursing. She became a fulltime faculty member at the College in 1988. She received both Baccalaureate and Master’s degrees in Nursing from Barry University, a DNP from the University of Miami and a Honorary Doctorate in Ministry from Trinity Theological Seminary. Constance followed in the footsteps of her biological mother who was a Cadet Nurse, and her grandmother who was a nurse midwife in Pompano Beach, FL. After working in various hospitals as an intensive care nurse for neonates, pediatrics, and adults, she became a nurse educator with encouragement from her best friend and her adopted mother, a retired educator. Her passions in life include nursing, teaching and helping others. She is a Certified Nurse Educator and nothing gives her more pleasure than to see former students demonstrating excellence and compassion as professional nurses. Constance is a member of several professional organizations, including the Miami Chapter-Black Nurses Association, ANA, and FNA. She is the treasurer for Miami-BNA. She currently serves on three National Black Nurses Association Committees.
Dr. Miller has received several awards which include the Florida Nurses Association (FNA) Educator’s Award, and a Florida Campus Compact Award for her service-learning activities. She was also named in the (FNA) 2013 list of Great 100 Nurses.
Dr. Lewis-Pierre is an Assistant Professor of Clinical at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies in Coral Gables, Florida. She is an experienced ICU nurse leader, critical care nurse, and educator. Her educator experience consists of didactic, clinical and distant learning programs.
Dr. Lewis-Pierre has a Bachelors and Masters degree in Nursing. She completed her doctorate in education with a specialty in curriculum and instruction. Dr. Lewis-Pierre has expertise in qualitative research. Her research focuses on workforce readiness, which includes new graduates, end of life care, and workplace violence.
Dr. Lewis-Pierre is a member of the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN), Association of Black Nursing Faculty, Florida Nurses Association, and the current Vice-President of the Beta Tau chapter of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. She has served as a member of the AACN-Continuing education review panel and research grant review panel. Dr. Lewis-Pierre is the Associate Editor for the Journal of the Association of Black Nursing Faculty, a manuscript and book reviewer for several journals, and an Item writer for the National Council State Board of Nursing (NCSBN) NCLEX examination.
Gilda Guzman, R.N., recently graduated from Miami Dade College Benjamin School of Nursing with Honors. This accomplishment comes after a long search for a career, driven by passion rather than opportunity.
Gilda successfully explored different career paths, such as real estate agent, environmental remediation instructor, and leadership positions, amongst others. However, each success did not fully coincide with her passion to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
To Gilda, nursing school represented the first step towards purpose. Gilda’s compassion, empathy for others, and her desire to consistently deliver the best care unconditionally to her patients, sets her apart. Such qualities and attributes are indispensable in today’s medical field.
The Global Innovative Foundation recognizes Gilda for her relentless efforts in the pursuit of her dreams as she continues to further her education through the Bachelors of Science in Nursing program, offered by Miami Dade.
Our best wishes to Gilda on her future endeavors.
Dr. Fayola Delica is a native of South Florida. She is an Ordained Pastor, Nurse for over 15 years, Serial Entrepreneur, Award-winning International Speaker, International Best-selling Author, #1 Best-selling Amazon Author (twice), Author of 6 published books, Talk Show Host, Educator, Youth Advocate, Beauty Queen, Poet, Community Leader, Business/Ministry/Pageant Consultant and Political Strategist.
Dr. Delica is a Nursing Supervisor at a long-term care facility as well as an RN Independent Contractor. Prior to that, her main areas of nursing expertise were Critical Care and Cardiac Care. She began her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Blanche Ely High School in Pompano Beach, FL while she was pursuing her high school diploma. She obtained her FL LPN license in 2004. Then after, graduating from the University of Miami with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, she began travel nursing. Dr. Delica obtained her RN license in 2006 in North Carolina.
In 2012, she moved back to Florida and obtained her FL RN license in 2014. Her nursing experience has been in various specialties: Medical/Surgical, Adult Health, Oncology, Pediatrics, Telemetry, Infectious Disease, Correctional Nursing, and Travel Nursing. She has held leadership/management positions in the units as well as in hospital-wide committees. Dr. Delica also holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science Education and a minor in Community Health, cum laude from the University of Florida. In May 2019, Dr. Delica received an Honorary Doctoral Degree in Ministry and was Ordained as a Pastor by the Trinity Theological Seminary of South Florida in Pompano Beach, FL through the leadership of Dr. Blanche Johnson Davis, Founder and President of Trinity Theological Seminary of South Florida.
A few awards that Dr. Delica has received to date:
In being a serial entrepreneur, Dr. Delica is the owner of the following companies: Fayola Delica, LLC., a motivational speaking and business consulting firm; The 360 Evolution Academy, Inc., a nonprofit holistic etiquette school for youth; Delica Construction Services, LLC., provides disaster mitigation and remediation services; Exquisite Traveling Services, an exclusive traveling company for small groups; and Founder/President/CEO of Revive Your Soul Ministries, Inc., a faith-based nonprofit ministry that teaches and trains in the area of prayer and worship. Lastly, she is the host of Ms. D Talk Show on Kingdom Broadcasting International Ch 18.8 and a weekly segment called the Community Corner Connection where they showcase local community events taking place in South Florida on Tropical TV Channel 18.6. Also, Dr. Delica is the Vice President of Operations for Global Innovative Consulting Network, Inc., a consulting group that provides professional services for healthcare providers for educational training, professional development, and success coaching.
Dr. Delica is an author of three of her own books: The Ultimate Speaker’s Manual: The “how to” in presenting a professional speaking business (2014), The Ultimate Life Coach’s Manual: The “how to” in presenting a professional life coaching business (2015), and The Ultimate Entrepreneur’s Manual: The “how to” in presenting a business with a professional image, to be released in 2019. In addition, she is a co-author of six other books: Resilience: Living Life by Design by Dr. Deana Murphy (2015), My Journey My Journal (2018),“20 Beautiful Women” Volume 6 by Saba Tekle (2018), The Purposed Woman 365 Day Devotional by Latisha Williams (2019), Women Breathe Again: Women Breakthrough Testimonials Volume 1 by Pastor Maggy Reed to be released in 2019, and How Big Can You Dream Journal to be released in 2019.
All her life she has engaged in the community through civic engagement. A few of her current and past leadership roles are the following: Executive Director of the Haitian American Professionals Coalition (HAPC), Treasurer for the Haitian American Faith-based Network, Inc.; Co-Chair of the Disparity Workgroup for the Southeast Florida Cancer Control Collaborative (SFCCC); Member of Marketing Subcommittee of Haitian American Nurses Association International (HANA-I) Leadership Convention 2018; Assistant Secretary 2017-2019, Co-Chair of Public Relations Committee, and Co-Chair of Legislative Affairs Committee for Haitian American Nurses Association of Florida, Inc. (HANA); Member of the Legislative Affairs, Chapter Development, and Membership Committees and a Member of the Miami Chapter of the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA); Board Member-at-Large for the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies (UMSONHS) Alumni Association Board; Democratic Executive Committee (DEC) of the Miami Dade County, FL Democratic Party; Co-Chair of Marketing Subcommittee and Member of the Legislative Committee and Event Committee for National Chapter of National Association of Black Women in Construction (NABWIC) and a Member of the South Florida Chapter of NABWIC; Past Co-Chair of Planning Committee for the State of Florida Caribbean Week 2018; Former Chair for Jobs, Economic Development and Tourism (JET) Taskforce for FL Senate District 38 under the leadership of FL State Senator Daphne Campbell of District 38; Former Political Candidate for Florida House of Representatives for District 108 in Miami-Dade County, and a Community Advocate-at-Large.
Dr. Delica is your Ms. Heart of Florida Plus America 2019 and First Runner-up for Ms. Plus America 2018. In the past, she has won several local and regional titles as a beauty queen. In addition, she has won many oratorical competitions. Currently, she is pursuing a graduate degree in nursing.
Born in Chicago, Illinois; Dr. Yates received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chicago State University, Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Nursing both from Barry University. Dr. Yates received a post- master’s certificate as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner from Florida International University and has been inducted into both Sigma Theta Tau and Epsilon Theta Iota honor societies. She received an earned Educational Doctorate degree from Florida International University and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Miami.
Dr. Yates’s nursing clinical and teaching experience began as a staff nurse at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago. She joined the USAF and was stationed here in sunny Florida, where she rose to the rank of Captain while on active duty. Eventually, she joined the reserve unit and joined the faculty at Miami Dade College, where she has been for the last 30 years.
She is currently a full professor in the School of Nursing who teaches in both the associate degree and baccalaureate nursing programs. She has been an ACEN program evaluator for more than 12 years and currently chairs the ACEN program evaluation committee for the School of Nursing. She is a member of the South Broward Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is also past president of the Miami Chapter – Black Nurses Association.
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