Tatianna Diaz
Tell us about yourself/your business.
My husband and I began flipping houses together, handling everything from demo to flooring, staging, and selling. Our goal was to create a one-stop shop construction company that would provide us with opportunities to give back to the community and support families in need. We’re grateful to have made that vision a reality. Today, we run a full-service construction company, working in both residential and commercial projects while offering a hand-up in our community, and even expanding into property management.
Have you had any female mentors or role models who shaped your path?
I’ve always seen my mom as a powerful role model, not just because she’s my mom, but because of her authenticity and rawness. She taught me to live with a carefree mindset, free from worrying about others' opinions or whether I stand out. She showed me it’s okay to be myself and that we don’t need to hide who we are to please others. She raised me to know my worth, never settle for less, and to always see the glass half full. She also taught me to appreciate each moment and to give grace to everyone, knowing we’re all living different lives.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar career path?
I would encourage anyone, regardless of their path, to see every experience as an opportunity and never limit their creativity or talents. Life can take unexpected turns, and your interests may evolve, so stay open-minded to new opportunities and always be willing to learn new skills.
What’s one luxury you allow yourself, guilt-free?
I work out for both my health and personal well-being. Our bodies do so much for us, and I always remind myself not to take the blessing of movement and mobility for granted.
Alexis Burgess
Tell us about yourself/your business.
I launched my esthetician business at 21, after gaining valuable experience working at a salon for a year and a half. Since then, I’ve continued to grow my skills, becoming both acne-certified and Hydrafacial-certified. As a proud partner with Hydrafacial, I now offer luxurious facials at Gulf Coast Town Center, located in Sola Salons in Fort Myers. My mission is to help my clients achieve their skincare goal whether that’s clearing acne, enhancing skin texture, or simply achieving a healthy, glowing complexion. I’m dedicated to providing personalized, high quality treatments tailored to each individual’s needs.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar career path?
Take the risk and do what you love. When you’re passionate about something, success follows. In esthetics, the only ones who don’t succeed are those who lack true passion or aren’t willing to invest in building relationships with clients, growing their business, and pushing themselves to keep evolving. If you put in the work and stay committed, reaching six figures and beyond is possible. Trust yourself, take the leap, and let your passion drive you.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of life advice, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self not to be so hard on myself when it comes to success. We often put a lot of pressure on ourselves to achieve quickly, but success is a journey, not a race. I’ve learned that it’s okay to take your time, make mistakes, and grow at your own pace. This advice still applies today—there’s no need to rush, as long as you stay focused and true to what you love. Success will come when you embrace the process
Kara Down
Tell us about yourself/your business.
I started my career in healthcare at HCA, Inc. in Nashville, TN. After several years in healthcare, I moved on to have a 25-year career in finance and banking before going back into healthcare when a fantastic opportunity came across my lap to work for NCH, supporting the incredible transformational journey they are on and helping propel their message throughout Naples and Southwest Florida.
Have you had any female mentors or role models who shaped your path?
Too many to count! One in particular comes to mind - my first boss at the Bank - everyone was terrified of her, but for some reason I found a way to connect with her and gain insights to build and grow and successful career. I'm so grateful I didn't listen to the naysayers and followed my heart.
If you could master any skill overnight, what would it be?
Being an artist - my daughter can draw and paint incredibly and I've always admired an artist's ability to pick up any form of pen and paper or paint and canvas and make something come to life.
Are there any local organizations, initiatives, or causes that are especially meaningful to you?
I'm passionate about NCH and the incredible opportunities for high quality care they are bringing to our community. I also am deeply involved with charity work including being an American Heart Association co-chair for Go Red for Women, an ambassador for Hope for Haiti, and helping with the Naples Winter Wine Festival.
What’s a personal mantra or philosophy you live by?
"Without grief we would not know joy."......my name means joy so I think I come by this naturally, but grief is temporary and without it we wouldn't truly know the joy that its cleansing power can bring
Toni Johns
Tell us about yourself/your business.
I’m the founder and owner of TORCH HOT YOGA, a boutique hot yoga studio in Naples, FL, and the co-founder of Naples Brunch Club, a dynamic social club for women to make friends, support local businesses, and engage with charities. Both TORCH HOT YOGA and Naples Brunch Club are at the heart of what I do. My journey began with a passion for wellness, community, and connection. After moving to Naples in 2020, I saw an opportunity to create spaces that bring people together in meaningful ways. TORCH was born out of my love for yoga and the transformative power it has on both the body and mind. I wanted to build more than just a studio—I envisioned a welcoming space where people could challenge themselves, grow, and find strength in movement. Similarly, Naples Brunch Club was founded with the goal of fostering friendships and supporting our local community. Through curated events, we connect women, promote local businesses, and raise awareness for important causes. Whether it’s through the heat of a yoga class at TORCH or the energy of a brunch event with Naples Brunch Club, my mission is to create spaces where people feel empowered, supported, and inspired.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar career path?
My biggest advice for young women pursuing their career path is to trust yourself, take risks, and embrace the journey—even when it feels uncertain. Too often, we wait for the “perfect” moment or second-guess our abilities, but growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and believing that you are capable. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, challenge you, and inspire you. Seek mentors, build a strong network, and never be afraid to ask questions or learn from others. Success isn’t about knowing everything from the start—it’s about being open to learning, adapting, and staying persistent. Most importantly, don’t be afraid of failure. Every setback is a lesson, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Stay true to your passion, keep pushing forward, and know that you are capable of creating something amazing.
Kathy Verdes
Tell us about yourself/your business.
I am a nurse practitioner and owner of Naples Clinic. As a nurse practitioner, I always wanted to have one on one comprehensive care without time constraints. Every patient is different and should be treated as such. With the clinic, I am able to do this. Individualized and accessible care.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar career path?
The best advice would be not to give up. The schooling can be time consuming, but it’s all worth it in the end.
If you could master any skill overnight, what would it be?
I would love to speak multiple languages.
What’s a defining moment in your life that shaped your perspective or approach?
Recent personal events have shown me to never take anything for granted. Your life could change overnight. We may not understand at the current time, however, when looking back later there was always a reason for the change.
Where do you see the future of women in leadership, business, or community involvement heading?
The future of women is incredibly promising. We are increasingly breaking barriers, driving innovation, and shaping industry.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for the next generation of women in Naples?
If I could leave a legacy, it would be one of empowerment through knowledge.
What’s been your proudest moment—personally or professionally?
I would have to say when my patients tell me they appreciate how much I care.
Erin Paparella
Tell us about yourself/your business.
I opened Rouze 10 years ago with my mom, a dream that we always shared. I grew up fascinated by the energy, artistic design, and individual expression that fashion is. Our favorite part has been the relationships we have built over the years, and the opportunity to assist women in feeling their absolute best.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar career path?
Just start somewhere. Start small. Start now. Just start. You don't have to have all the answers. No one has it all figured out. Just take small steps forward, and be open to any opportunity that arises.
Are there any local organizations, initiatives, or causes that are especially meaningful to you?
There are so many great causes, but a few I have participated in supporting include the Golisano Children's Museum of Naples, the Shelter for Abused Women and Children, and the Naples Children & Education Foundation.
If you could master any skill overnight, what would it be?
To be able to see business opportunities that I may be overlooking
What’s a defining moment in your life that shaped your perspective or approach?
I have found that loss can be a great teacher that can help you gain strength and perspective.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of life advice, what would it be?
Study harder. Go to Harvard.
What’s a personal mantra or philosophy you live by?
Learn how to live as much as I can in the present moment.
Amy Hale
Tell us about yourself/your business.
As the Regional President for BMO Wealth Management, US, I oversee our wealth business for 10 states between Arizona and Florida. I also serve as the Executive Sponsor of our Women & Wealth program in the US, which is a passion for me. I’ve been in the wealth business for 25 years now, and have done many types of roles throughout my career. Throughout my time in the business, I’ve had the good fortune of having great mentors and role models who believed in my capabilities and supported my growth.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar career path?
Raise your hand, and you don’t get what you don’t ask for! There were times I knew I wanted to grow in a certain direction in my career, so I sought out advice from a trusted friend in the business to ask for feedback on how I might take that next step. There were also times I simply asked to be considered for that next role. Sometimes opportunities will come to you, but sometimes you have to do the hard work consistently to position yourself well to be able to raise your hand and ask for that next role.
Are there any local organizations, initiatives, or causes that are especially meaningful to you?
The Immokalee Foundation is an organization that has always been special to me. The generational impact they make in young people’s lives is special to see and be a small part of. Changing lives and legacies!
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of life advice, what would it be?
Enjoy the journey. I had some soul searching, difficult times as a single mother wondering if all the work I was doing was going to make a difference and help. Not only am I very grateful for what I’m doing and my role at BMO, I’m in a great position to help women both with their personal wealth picture and in their careers, which is so rewarding.