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Featured Article

Inspiring Women Redefining Success in Business

Highlighting female leaders transforming communities through dedication and innovation.

Photography by Karianne Munstedt, Amanda Smith, The Valley Lens, Danielle Muccillo, Azy Williams

Originally published in Surprise City Lifestyle

1. Joannie Delgado Collins- Bling Dance Studio- There is nothing Joannie can't do. Joannie owns Bling Dance Studio in Surprise, which she founded in 2013 at the Marley Park Community Center. Her impact on the community she serves surpasses that of the thousnds of young athletes who love and adore her and their families have come to find Bling Dance Studio a home away from home. In addition to creating a place of growth, acceptance and love through her dance studio, Joannie is also an Education Division Director for the Arizona Supreme Court where she leads statewide judicial education initiatives that strengthen professional development for judges, court staff and justice partners. Joannie is recognized for her collaborative leadership style, strategic vision, and passion for expanding educational and artistic opportunities within the justice system and the broader community she serves.

2. Monica Dunn- AEF (Arizona Escrow & Financial)- Starting in 1990, Monica worked her way up through the ranks at Arizona Escrow & Financial (AEF). Quickly rising through the ranks from Assistant Controller to VP/CFO by 2000 and in 2023 became the sole owner of the company. She forged her legacy through compassion for her local businesses and community, achieving record-breaking milestones for AEF. If being the ultimate girl boss wasn't enough, Monica is a proud wife, mother and grandmother who enjoys spending time with her family balancing her professional accomplishments and personal fulfillments in perfect harmony.

3. Naleka Gomez- It's a Breeze Real Estate- Naleka doesn't just help people and families find their dream homes, she makes dreams come true anywhere she can. Naleka always looks for ways to give back to her community, build stronger relationships and be the friend, mentor and helping hand people need. She is the first to offer help to those in need and does so without bias, hesitation or recognition. She is well invested in the West Valley and does so much behind the scenes to make our community amazing. We are happy to share in her success and give her the recognition she deserves.

4. Brittney Taylor- The Design Bar- Brittney built on The Design Hat bar on creativity, connections and community. Brittney is also a proud U.S. Army veteran and mother of two young daughters. Brittney created an interactive experience for her clients where guests can design their own custom pieces. What started as creativity has blossomed into a business built on faith and family. The rode wasnt always easy but the drive to show her daughters and other women that with faith, passion and hardwork you. can build something beautiful to be proud of.

5. Skye Miranda- The Blend Studio- Skye has created a place for women to feel beautiful. She and her team of passionate stylists have created a relaxed atmosphere, bringing a more intimate approach to self care for your hair. Specializing in lived in color, blonding and luxury extensions all customized to grow out beautifully and fit your lifestyle. Skye is a local wife, mom and business owner who loves to uplift the women in our community in and out of the chair! The Blend Studio was built for women who want to feel confident, informed, and taken care of!

6. Megan Abeyta- Arizona Set Point & Tile Dynamics- Megan is never in one place for long. As a wife, mother and business owner, Megan is always on the go. Megan is also the founder of the new Set Point AZ gym. Despite many setbacks she never gave up, worked harder and brought her dream to life. A Volleyball gym for young athletes founded on Faith, where they can work on their skills, grow, learn, and make new friends. The gym offers training courts and fitness training in a welcoming environment. They are not a club; they are professionals dedicated to helping our youth. 

7. Jewels Kent Partridge - Founder of  Bridging Our Gaps a local non-profit- Jewels brings her passion and dedication to our community as a case manager, disability advocate, and systems navigator for individuals, families, students and Veterans. With a strong background in public education, family. and child welfare, veteran advocacy and non-profit leadership. Julie is known for her compassion and solutions driven approach to those she helps. She also serves as a mental health therapist with Gathered Connections Counseling, specializing in neurodivergent populations, traumatic brain injury (TBI), Parkinson's, and Veterans Support. 

8. Carol Prelog- Exclusive Transportation- Owner of Exclusive Transportation- Carol prides herself on putting her community's safety at the forefront of all she does. She loves chatting with her clients and making personal connections while ensuring they reach their desired destination safely and on time. Carol and her team pride themselves on punctuality and precision and will never leave you stranded, even if your flight is delayed, they'll be there waiting for you. Her dedication extends to her team and she always ensures they have Christmas off. On Christmas Day, she dresses up and does all the driving herself to give her team the time off to be with family and loved ones. 

9. Megan Palamino- Beauty Spell Aesthetics- Megan is by definition a girls, girl! She prides herself on uplifting other women and making them feel beautiful and confident. From pampering, relaxing or aesthetic treatments, women love coming to Megan for her sweet, humble and caring disposition. She truly loves to help those around her and uplift the women she serves. Megan also volunteers with Helping Hands for Single Moms a local nonprofit. With over 12 years of experience as a Registered Nurse and a passion for aesthetics, Megan has grown her business by helping women look and feel their best. 

Businesses featured in this article