Each month, the Miami-Dade Women’s Commission gathers to advocate for women’s issues that are essential to community healing, progress, and reform. These public meetings are designed not only to highlight pressing needs but also to bring together organizations and voices dedicated to creating sustainable change. From social reform to wellness and equity, the commission emphasizes one foundational truth: when women thrive, communities rise.
This month’s meeting, held in the heart of Miami Lakes, Florida, was a powerful testament to that mission. Hosted by Miami Lakes Mayor Josh Dieguez and Councilman Alex Sanchez, demonstrating strong alignment and support for the commission’s vision and goals. Their presence was more than symbolic—it was a reminder that when local leadership shows up for women, real progress becomes possible.
The meeting spotlighted multiple community-focused proposals, with Josephine Novo bringing forward key initiatives to address often-overlooked populations. Among the proposals were semi-annual events for children with disabilities, offering support and joy to families who need it most, and a focused effort to create resources for mothers navigating these unique challenges. Additionally, a proposal by another board member to provide targeted assistance for women veterans underscored the commission’s commitment to honoring and uplifting all women who serve, both at home and in uniform.
These initiatives stem from a deep-rooted understanding: women are the strength, heart, and pillars of our homes and communities. They nurture our children, hold families together, and lead with resilience. But before women can heal the world, they must first be supported in healing themselves.
The Miami-Dade Women’s Commission continues to be a vital space for collective action, education, and empowerment. The monthly meetings are open to the public, offering a welcoming environment for anyone passionate about building stronger, more inclusive communities. As this work continues, Miami-Dade Women invites all to participate—because real change requires all hands and all hearts. And through the power of women, that change is not only possible, it is inevitable.
Board members that attended include: Michelle Abreu, Chair, District 11 Lourdes Abadin, First Vice Chair, District 13, Rose Martin, Second Vice Chair, District 9, Milagros Del Valle, Member at Large, District 7, Katherine Leiva, Member at Large, District 3, Sarah Zabel, Previous Past Chair, District 4, Sharon Kendrick-Johnson, Past Chair, District 6, Clora Adkins, Board Member, District 1, Gabrielle Carey Johnson, Board Member, District 1, Marie Soeurette-Eloi, Board Member, District 2, Nadege Vilsaint, Board Member, District 2, Heather Paschal Binns, Board Member, District 3, Mercedes Carlson, Board Member, District 4, Elise Gerson, Board Member, District 5, Jacqueline Peña, Board Member, District 5, Chelsea Granell, Board Member, District 6, Yvette Ayala, Board Member, District 7, Yumanela Candelaria, Board Member, District 8, Gloria Martinez, Board Member, District 8, Lunicel Alvarado, Board Member, District 9, Maria Santamaria, Board Member, District 10, Yama Paillere, Board Member, District 12, Josephine Novo, Board Member, District 13, Stephanie Daniels, Board Member, District 4.
