🌟Lauren LeBlanc Haydel is the founder of Fleurty Girl, a wildly popular women's boutique chain based in New Orleans. In 2009, this single mother of three put everything she had into printing t-shirts for women that celebrated New Orleans. Just six months after launching her online store, she opened her first retail store on historic Oak Street and moved herself and her family in the back of the old shotgun house.

Today, Lauren now has nine Fleurty Girl retail stores and has gotten her kids back to having their own rooms again. In fact, they're all in college now. Fleurty Girl has over 70 employees and has become one of the most beloved brands in the city of New Orleans and Bay St. Louis, MS.

Dorothy P. Wilson is CEO at GCW Media, publisher of Gulf Coast Woman magazine and a serial entrepreneur with ventures in digital media, publishing, conferences, and business services. She is recognized nationally and locally for her leadership, including awards from NAWBO, the SBA, and the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi. Dorothy is dedicated to empowering women through media, education, and community initiatives that inspire growth, connection, and impact.

Tomeka Durr-Wiley is a Commercial Development Project Manager at Mississippi Power Company, connecting small businesses with resources to support growth, site selection, and business incentives. With 21 years of experience in marketing, economic development, and business leadership, she is recognized for helping businesses and communities succeed.

Anthony Montgomery is Senior Vice President of Community Economic Development at Hancock Whitney Bank, bringing over 29 years of banking experience. He has led key areas including credit risk, underwriting, and operations, and played a role in launching innovative banking services. A dedicated community leader, he actively serves on boards and contributes to local organizations across the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Kerri Paul is a Gulf Coast entrepreneur and owner of three Brick & Spoon restaurants, known for her leadership, community impact, and growing digital presence. A cast member on OWN’s Belle Collective, she inspires women through her authentic approach to entrepreneurship, wellness, and motherhood. Driven by faith and a commitment to legacy, she mentors aspiring business owners and creates meaningful opportunities across her community.

Misty R. Stevenson, BSN, RN, is an award-winning nurse entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of Elite Care Home Care. With 25+ years in nursing and senior care, she leads multiple service-based companies focused on excellence and scalable systems. A Loyola University and Goldman Sachs 10KSB graduate, she is also a community advocate supporting seniors, veterans, caregivers, and women in business.

Nakia Miller is an Associate Broker with Century 21 Busch Realty Group, guiding clients through buying and selling homes with confidence, clarity, and ease. With a reputation for integrity and expertise, she empowers clients to make informed decisions and navigate real estate transactions successfully, helping them step confidently into their next chapter.

Crystal Scretching is the Marketing Director at GCW Media, home of Gulf Coast Woman magazine, where she leads brand strategy, advertising initiatives, and community-focused storytelling. She also serves as President of the American Advertising Federation Mississippi Gulf Coast, supporting creative excellence across the region.

Natalie Higgins is a digital marketing strategist with 18+ years of experience helping small businesses and nonprofits grow with confidence. As Director of Revenue Strategy, she simplifies advanced digital tactics into clear, actionable steps for busy business owners. She is also a committed community advocate and passionate about equipping women entrepreneurs with the clarity and tools they need to market smarter and expand their visibility.

Deborah Quave is a health and wellbeing strategist, somatic coach, and founder of Use Your Words Coaching & Consulting. With over 14 years of experience, she helps women, entrepreneurs, and leaders strengthen communication, reclaim personal agency, and align mind and body for transformational growth. Her work centers on clarity, confidence, and purpose, guided by her motto: “Be the light that shines and gives light to the world.”