Some women don’t just navigate the world—they shape it. They push forward with unstoppable energy, turning challenges into opportunities and inspiring those around them. Like the elements—bold as the wind, steady as the earth, radiant as the sun and ever-growing—these five women lead with strength, respect and a stable commitment to those they serve. They are leaders, innovators and changemakers.
They are a force of nature.
Bianca Margolis
Stylist & Business Owner
How would you describe your leadership style in one sentence?
"In response to the dynamic challenges that I face, I would describe my leadership style as both servant and transformational."
What inspired you to step into leadership?
"Growing up, I watched my father, a businessman, and my late mother, an educator, lead and inspire their teams with dedication and purpose. I admired their work ethic, growth and achievements. It became clear to me that their success stemmed from strong motivation and a commitment to empowering others. This realization inspired me to pursue business ownership myself."
What has been your biggest lesson?
"My biggest lesson has been to have the right attitude in the face of constant change and a willingness to learn from failures."
What values shape your business culture and how do you ensure they remain at the heart of your work?
"At Frederick Fashion Boutique, our mission is simple: to help our clients express their uniqueness through high-quality, curated fashion choices. Our business culture is deeply customer-focused, built on a commitment to diversity, collaboration and community engagement. We uphold these values with open communication, encouraging teamwork and prioritizing continuous learning."
What is your leadership “superpower”?
"My ability to connect with people on a personal level has been the foundation of my success as a fashion stylist. Building genuine relationships with my clients allows me to understand their unique needs, instill confidence and curate styles that truly reflect their individuality. This deep connection transforms fashion into a powerful tool for self-expression."
What advice would you give to the next generation of women stepping into leadership roles?
"Stay focused, resilient and to keep a calm head in the pursuit of your dreams."
If your leadership style were represented by a flower, which one would it be?
"A magnolia best represents my leadership style, as it embodies strength, grace and thoughtful guidance. Just as the magnolia stands resilient through the seasons while exuding elegance, I lead with both confidence and compassion, creating an environment where others feel supported and inspired to grow."
What’s a book has had a significant impact on your leadership journey?
"The Power of Now, by Echart Tolle"
Where do you feel most inspired as a leader?
"Taking long walks in nature definitely fuels my creativity."
Nikkie Byrd
Owner & Creative Director of Sage Cakery
How would you describe your leadership style in one sentence?
"I'm a hands-on leader who values integrity, inclusivity and collaboration; striving to empower my team by providing a clear vision and supportive environment.”
What inspired you to step into leadership and what has been your biggest lesson?
"My journey into leadership was a natural progression, especially when I started Sage Cakery. In the beginning, I handled all aspects of the business which quickly taught me the critical role of delegation. The most significant lesson I've learned? Effective leadership goes beyond having a vision—it's about inspiring your team and working together to turn that vision into reality."
What values shape your business culture?
"Our culture at Sage Cakery is built on quality, teamwork, integrity and inclusivity. We maintain these values by producing exceptional products, fostering open communication and nurturing a collaborative environment."
What is your leadership 'superpower’?
“Vulnerability. It builds trust and fosters open communication. By being authentic and sharing my challenges, I encourage my team to embrace their full selves, enhancing creativity and strengthening connections. This approach not only invites innovation, but also creates a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to contribute openly."
Can you share a tough leadership decision you made?
“The toughest decision I have ever had to make was letting go of a valued employee. It was hard, but necessary at the time. I always aim to handle such decisions with transparency and empathy. I was fortunate enough to be able to welcome her back in a new capacity later on."
How do you balance strong leadership with empathy?
"I believe true strength in leadership comes from being both a guide and a fellow traveler. I stand shoulder-to-shoulder with my team, ready to face any challenges together."
What advice would you give future women leaders?
"Be more than a director; be an inspiration. Embrace adaptability, consider different perspectives, serve your team, listen actively and always make time for self-reflection."
What flower represents your leadership style?
"I see my leadership style as a zinnia—vibrant, resilient and energizing, lifting the spirits of those around them."
A book that impacted your leadership?
"Brené Brown's Dare to Lead ."
Where do you feel most inspired as a leader?
"I find inspiration in serene, thoughtful places like art galleries and botanical gardens, where I can reflect, create and strategize with clarity.”
Troyce Gatewood
Owner & Team Lead | Chairwoman | Co-Owner
How would you describe your leadership style in one sentence?
"The style of our leadership environment empowers each member on my team with confidence to think and act like leaders themselves with the desire to be someone who is “Enjoyable to Lead”.
What inspired you to step into leadership and what has been your biggest lesson?
"Leadership has always come naturally to me. Since a young age, I have held leadership positions in sports, student government and within civic organizations. I have learned to surround myself with people whose strengths complement my weaknesses, that collectively results in an amazing team."
What values shape your business culture?
"Our values align with the Golden Rule–treating others as you would want to be treated. We strive to be enjoyable, supportive, adaptable, loyal and accountable, while recognizing each other's contributions and accomplishments."
What is your leadership “superpower”?
"I approach every situation with a solutions-oriented mindset, a deep commitment to understanding others and a genuine care for resolving challenges in a way that benefits everyone involved. In addition, I am always willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done—no excuses."
What advice would you give to future women leaders?
"Stay humble, be grateful each day for the gifts that are given and appreciate those around you, always."
If your leadership style were a flower, what would it be?
"A daisy—symbolizing loyalty, faith and cheerfulness—holds special meaning for me. My oldest son, Brooks, wrote a heartfelt poem for me as a Mother’s Day gift in high school, comparing me to a daisy—a memory I cherish deeply."
What drives your leadership and commitment to philanthropy?
"Faith has always been my foundation. Joe and I built our lives on it, navigating the highs and lows of 100% commission-based careers while raising our family. Matthew 17:20 reminds me that with faith, anything is possible. From real estate and nonprofit work to giving back through TGP Gives, helping others has always been a priority. Early in our marriage, we were very tight budget wise, but my heart ached for those in need. My solution was to bake banana bread and pass them out on the streets of DC, which then led to the founding of our first nonprofit, CTT, nearly 40 years ago. Since then, we've launched initiatives like Thanks4Giving and the Unity Campaign of Frederick County, raising over $2 million for local nonprofits. During COVID, we supported struggling businesses by giving away $25,000 in gift cards and hosting community events. Today, TGP Gives continues that mission through acts of kindness, like installing Frederick’s first disc golf course. Giving back isn’t just something I do—it’s who I am."
Sarah Hurwitz Robey
President & Owner of Colonial Jewelers
How would you describe your leadership style in one sentence?
"Work hard, trust your people and never stop improving."
What inspired you to step into leadership and what has been your biggest lesson?
"My parents and grandparents led Colonial Jewelers, showing me the value of hard work and commitment. My biggest lesson has been learning to balance innovation while honoring what has made us successful for over 75 years."
What values shape your business culture?
"Dependability, honesty, respect, optimism and initiative. We invest in our team to uphold these standards."
What is your leadership “superpower”?
"Seeing the good in people and maintaining a positive, optimistic outlook."
Can you share a tough leadership decision you made?
"During the 10-week pandemic closure, despite having no revenue and no certainty of government relief, we chose to prioritize our people over profits. We retained our entire staff and paid them their full wages—a decision I’m incredibly proud of."
How do you balance strong leadership with empathy?
"Being direct yet speaking truth with love, staying optimistic and being proactive in addressing issues."
What advice would you give future women leaders?
"Lead “your” way—authenticity brings success, not fitting into a mold."
What flower represents your leadership style?
"A Marigold—it symbolizes strength, humility, warmth and happiness. I strive to lead with these qualities while fostering joy. Marigolds also remind me of my grandmother, who planted them to protect her garden—cheerful and quietly purposeful, just as I hope to be in leadership."
A book that impacted your leadership?
"As a reader at heart, Good to Great by James Collins had a huge impact when I was first developing my own identity and vision of the company. Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek reinforced a lot of the values that are important to me as a leader."
Where do you feel most inspired as a leader?
"Trade shows and conferences fuel my creativity and passion for the jewelry industry. I thrive on connecting with peers, exchanging ideas and gaining fresh inspiration from others in the field. Some have become some of my best friends."
Kate Cusato
Local Entrepreneur & Business Owner
How would you describe your leadership style in one sentence?
"As an owner and leader of Minuteman Press, The Offices at Bentz, Dudley Cusato Property Management and the Dudley Cusato Home Team, my leadership style is naturally collaborative and empowering. I focus on fostering self-belief and problem-solving within my team, guided by compassion and mutual respect."
What inspired you to step into leadership and what has been your biggest lesson?
"My leadership journey began working with at-risk youth in residential treatment. Despite limited resources, we created a school for these youth when public school wasn’t an option. The resilience of the kids and the support from community leaders inspired me to dream big. I learned that there is power in believing and strengthening others and never settling for less."
What values shape your business culture?
"Collaboration, empowerment, compassion and resilience shape my business culture. I prioritize open communication, continuous learning and team-building activities to create an environment where team members feel supported and encouraged to take initiative and solve problems creatively."
What is your leadership “superpower”?
"Intuition—I can read and understand people's needs, helping me create win-win situations and connecting on a personal level to empower and inspire my team."
Can you share a tough leadership decision?
"A tough leadership decision came after the tragic loss of Minuteman’s graphic designer, Chris, in a motorcycle accident. Leading our tight knit team through shock and grief, we supported each other and chose to honor Chris by continuing with his spirit in mind. This experience taught me the true value of compassion in leadership and unity."
How do you balance being a strong leader while maintaining empathy and connection with your team?
"I encourage open communication, actively listen and make decisions that consider everyone's needs."
What advice would you give future women leaders?
"Surround yourself with mentors and peers who inspire and challenge you. Stay resilient, advocate for yourself and inspire others along the way."
If your leadership style were a flower, what would it be?
"A lotus, which symbolizes resilience and strength, thrives even in challenging conditions."
What’s a quote that has had a significant impact on your leadership journey?
"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail — Ralph Waldo Emerson"
Where do you feel most inspired as a leader?
"I am most creative and driven in a really hot sauna after a workout. The endorphins are doing their thing and the extreme heat just enhances my mood, making all things feel possible."