The Strength of Collective Influence, A Tribute To The Powerhouse Women
In this special feature we celebrate "The Strength of Collective Influence," a tribute to the powerhouse women who have not only played pivotal roles in my personal and professional journey but have also made it their mission to uplift and forge connections with other women in their rise to success. These fabulous women embody the essence of leadership and empowerment, fostering communities that thrive on shared successes and mutual support.
As a special gift, I asked renowned photographer Nigel Barker to capture their strength and grace in a stunning photoshoot that highlights not just their individual brilliance but the incredible impact of their collective influence. These women are part of my uplifting tribe, so please join me in honoring them, remarkable women who lead with integrity, championing a brighter future for all.
Annabelle Hedges, @Anna.BelleHedges
Annabelle Hedges is a versatile and expressive model, dancer, and content creator whose portfolio captures her multifaceted talents and artistic journey.
With a strong background in both the performing and visual arts, Annabelle brings a unique blend of grace and creativity to every project.
Her work showcases an impressive range, from striking fashion editorials and captivating dance performances to engaging digital content, embodying her ability to connect with diverse audiences. Annabelle's fashion industry achievements are highlighted by her impact at New York Fashion Week, walking and opening shows for ZCRAVE, a testament to her deep dedication and love for fashion.
Annabelle's versatility and commitment to bridging dance and fashion have solidified her role as a force in both industries. Her work and collaborations highlight her passion for movement, storytelling, and visual expression, making Annabelle an engaging and influential presence in today's creative world.
Cheldin Barlett-Rumer, @thisisittv
Cheldin Barlatt Rumer is the CEO and Executive Producer of THIS IS IT NETWORK™, a rapidly rising digital streaming platform that is female and minority-owned. Known for its empowering content and innovative approach to personal branding, the network has made significant strides under her leadership. Rumer oversees the production of 42 digital talk shows and 14 annual events, all designed to inspire and uplift women globally.
With a charismatic presence, boundless enthusiasm, and deep industry knowledge, she has established a platform for exceptional women worldwide to share their achievements, dreams, and stories, engaging a diverse and captivated audience.
Beyond her entrepreneurial role, Rumer's diverse background enriches her work. She is an immigrant from Sierra Leone, West Africa, a former Division 1 athlete, a mother of two, an adjunct professor, a personal branding expert, and an author.
Her new book, "SCREAM YOUR DREAM™ - 66 Lessons to Build Your Personal Brand," debuted at #1 on Amazon’s Hot New Release list, reinforcing her expertise in personal branding and leadership. These varied experiences fuel her commitment to encouraging others to embrace their potential and boldly express their dreams.
“This isn’t just about media or business—it’s about impact. I don’t just want women to be heard; I want them to be impossible to ignore.”
“One of the most defining moments in my journey came when I spoke at an event filled with ambitious women, all eager to share their stories. After my talk, a woman approached me with tears in her eyes and said, ‘Cheldin, for the first time, I feel seen. You made me believe that my voice matters.’ That moment solidified everything for me.
I always knew I wanted to build a platform that amplified women's voices, but hearing firsthand how my words could shift someone's confidence and self-perception was life-changing. It reinforced my commitment to SCREAM YOUR DREAM™—not just as a mantra but as a movement. Women, especially entrepreneurs and executives, often struggle with feeling like they have to ask for permission to take up space. I refuse to let that happen.
That experience pushed me to double down on creating spaces where women feel empowered to be unapologetic about their goals, stories, and worth. Whether through THIS IS IT NETWORK™, my SCREAM YOUR DREAM™ book, our community events, or personal branding education, my mission is clear: No woman should ever feel invisible.
This isn’t just about media or business—it’s about impact. I don’t just want women to be heard; I want them to be impossible to ignore.”
More information on THIS IS IT NETWORK™, and our SCREAM YOUR DREAM™ mission can be found here:
• ThisIsIt.tv
• IG and TIKTOK @thisisittv
Maneet Ahuja, @WallstreetManeet @Forbes
Maneet Ahuja is an award-winning journalist, author, and Editor-at-Large at Forbes, where she reports on the intersection of Wall Street, billionaires, and entrepreneurial capitalism. She is also the visionary behind ICONOCLAST, Forbes' premier global investor summit, which gathers the world's most iconic titans, visionaries, philanthropists, and changemakers, managing over $20 trillion in assets, to discuss the critical issues affecting today's markets and economies. In 2024, she was honored with the Beacon Award by the Ellis Island Honors Society, recognizing her outstanding commitment to professional, cultural, or civic service.
Maneet has the unique honor of being the only journalist at Forbes who is also an alumna of the distinguished Forbes Under 30 list for media. She has penned several major cover stories and conducted interviews with some of the world's most influential figures, including former U.S. President Bill Clinton, former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, and financial leaders like JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon, Carl Icahn, Marc Andreessen, and former Meta COO Sheryl Sandberg.
Before her time at Forbes, Maneet was awarded the esteemed Knight-Bagehot Fellowship at Columbia Journalism School, during which she hosted Spotify’s Megatrends podcast, exploring significant global trends. Her over ten years at CNBC saw her delve into major investigations such as the collapse of Lehman Brothers and Herbalife during the financial crisis.
“Recognizing how important it is to empower and support other women I was grateful to be able to forge new partnerships and help launch a new women’s summit that was held around Mother’s Day last year.”
While at CNBC, she pioneered the network’s coverage on hedge funds and alternatives, leading to the creation of Delivering Alpha, CNBC’s flagship annual Wall Street summit. Her efforts culminated in her bestselling book, "The Alpha Masters," which sold over 30,000 copies and was translated into five languages. Her subsequent book, "The Techtonics," was shortlisted for the 2019 FT Bracken Bower Prize.
Maneet's career began at the Wall Street Journal’s Money & Investing team and even earlier on Wall Street at Citigroup when she was just seventeen, earning her the nickname “Wall Street Maneet.”
“A defining moment in my journey when I realized the strength of my influence would be when I was promoted to Editor-at-Large at Forbes over a year ago after many years in the industry working my way up the ladder. Recognizing how important it is to empower and support other women I was grateful to be able to forge new partnerships and help launch a new women’s summit that was held around Mother’s Day last year. This is just one example that I am very grateful to be able to say I contributed towards.”
Jordana Guimaraes, @IAmJordanaGuimaraes
Jordana Guimarães is an entrepreneur, author, and advocate with deep roots in both the fashion and technology industries. She originally made her mark as the co-founder of Fashinnovation, an influential global platform dedicated to connecting innovators and thought leaders within fashion and technology. For seven years, Jordana was instrumental in building Fashinnovation into a cornerstone of the global fashion ecosystem, with its international conferences that facilitate dialogue on the future of fashion and technological advancements.
Jordana will be embarking on a new venture as the host of an upcoming show titled "It Can Be You... With Jordana," produced by Larry Namer, the founder of E! Television. This show aims to delve into the lives of industry leaders, exploring the motivations, challenges, and spiritual practices that have shaped their journeys to success. Through in-depth conversations, Jordana uncovers the soul stories behind these entrepreneurs and innovators, aiming to inspire viewers by reminding them that the path to transformation and purpose is accessible to all.
Jordana is deeply committed to advocacy, particularly in humanizing social issues. She authored the book "It Can Be You: Humanizing Homelessness," which sheds light on the realities of homelessness and seeks to foster understanding and empathy.
With a Brazilian heritage and an influential presence in the New York fashion scene, Jordana Guimarães continues to inspire as a leader and pioneer, devoted to innovation, sustainability, and creating meaningful connections across diverse fields.
“I knew this was my opportunity to create a bit of change in Saudi Arabia when it came to women’s rights.”
A defining moment in being the Co-Founder of Fashinnovation - a global platform discussing the future of the fashion industry - was when I was hired by the Ministry of Culture in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and got to work side by side with Her Highness Princess Noura Bint Faisal in creating the first global Fashion Summit in Saudi Arabia.
I knew this was my opportunity to create a bit of change in Saudi Arabia when it came to women’s rights.
I had the chance to put women leaders and CEOs on stage at this event and it inspired thousands of Saudi women who came up to me at the event with tears in their eyes saying things such as "thank you for doing this.. I never thought I'd see such an event in my country.”
Karen Diaz-Meaike, @KarenDiazMeaike @KDMrealtor
Dr. Karen Diaz Meaike is a multifaceted entrepreneur and licensed luxury real estate agent specializing in the Florida and Connecticut markets.
With a background and a doctorate in social work, she expertly combines her client-centered perspective with outstanding service to navigate high-net-worth individuals through the luxury property landscape.
Beyond real estate, Karen is set to launch Blushington Boca, an upscale beauty and wellness boutique in Boca Raton, in Spring 2025.
Fluent in both Spanish and English, Karen effectively serves a diverse, international clientele. Her deep commitment to her faith, family, and philanthropy underscores her professional endeavors. Karen is passionately involved in community initiatives, championing causes such as affordable housing and family support programs, highlighting her dedication to creating a meaningful personal and professional legacy.
“...influence is not just about leadership—it is about using our presence, our relationships, and our advocacy to create meaningful change in the lives of others.”
“Throughout my career in social work, I have encountered numerous moments that reinforced the power of influence and the responsibility that comes with it. However, two specific experiences stand out as pivotal in shaping my commitment to empowering and supporting women, young women, and girls.
The first involves a young biracial girl placed in a home where she was not only physically different from her caretakers but was also denied the opportunity to understand and explore her identity. Initially, I did not realize the depth of my impact, but over time, through our work together and the way I treated her, I became a source of representation and understanding. Later, I learned how this relationship influenced critical decisions she made in her life. This experience opened my eyes to the significant role I could play in shaping perspectives and providing a sense of belonging for those navigating unfamiliar or isolating circumstances.
The second instance centered around a family bound by strict cultural and religious practices. The circumstances of our work together required decisions that went against standard procedures, yet because of the relationships I had built with decision-makers, I was able to advocate for a more unconventional yet ultimately better outcome. At the heart of this story was a woman—a mother—whose life was directly impacted by these efforts. Through this experience, I fully grasped how my voice and influence could challenge norms and create space for more compassionate and individualized solutions.
Looking back, I recognize that these experiences, combined with the strength of the grandmothers who shaped me and my innate calling to be a voice for the voiceless, have solidified my commitment to uplifting and empowering women. These defining moments serve as reminders that influence is not just about leadership—it is about using our presence, our relationships, and our advocacy to create meaningful change in the lives of others.”
Kim Baker, @GlamazonBeautyCosmetics
Kim Baker's journey in beauty began at the young age of 13 when she stepped in front of the camera as a model, gracing the pages of prestigious magazines like Vogue, Essence, Seventeen, Lucky, and more. As a trailblazer in the plus-size modeling industry, she shattered barriers and played a pivotal role in Wilhelmina’s groundbreaking 1020 division, helping to redefine beauty standards in fashion.
Kim's influence extended beyond modeling as she transitioned into a career as a celebrity makeup artist, working with icons such as Tom Cruise, Tiffany Haddish, Cynthia Bailey, and many others. Her artistry was not just about makeup; it was about empowerment, giving her clients the confidence to own their presence.
Determined to create a brand that resonated with real women, Kim made history by launching the first Black-owned beauty brand, Glamazon Beauty, on ShopHQ. It quickly became the fastest-growing color cosmetics brand on the network, and her success expanded to HSN and TSC in Canada. For Kim, representation in beauty is not just about visibility; it's about making a lasting impact.
With a career spanning decades, Kim Baker is more than a veteran of the beauty industry—she is a visionary. Through Glamazon Beauty, she continues to champion inclusivity, redefine beauty, and inspire the next generation of women to embrace their power. When the industry didn’t offer her a seat at the table, she built a bigger one. And this? This is just the beginning.
“...we deserve a seat at the table—and when we don’t see one, we build our own.”
“Becoming the first Black-owned beauty brand to launch on ShopHQ wasn’t just a milestone—it was a statement. Standing in that studio, I knew this was bigger than me. It was about proving that women who look like me belong in this industry, not just as consumers but as leaders.
That moment fueled my mission. I wasn’t just selling makeup—I was breaking barriers. And I didn’t stop there. From ShopHQ to HSN to TSC, I took Glamazon Beauty even further, proving that representation isn’t just about visibility—it’s about impact.
Glamazon Beauty isn’t just a brand. It’s a movement. A reminder that we deserve a seat at the table—and when we don’t see one, we build our own. And trust me, this is just the beginning.”
Georgia Calatoulas, @Georgia9111 @BurgerologyUSA
“I am the proud owner of Burgerology, a family-owned and operated restaurant group based in New York. Born and raised in New York to Greek immigrant parents, I was always surrounded by food, whether it was my mom cooking at home or watching her at work. I also spent my summers in Greece, helping my grandparents in the kitchen and out in the fields. It was there that I realized how food brings people together in any circumstance, and that's when my passion for the hospitality business truly ignited.
A defining moment for me was when we opened the doors for the very first time, feeling immense pride as a woman owner in a male-dominated industry.
I feel a strong commitment to show other women that they can break through barriers and follow their passion. As a mother of two, with both my kids in the industry, I'm proud to see my daughter following in my footsteps. Together, we are building a legacy.”
Joelle Garguilo, @JoelleGarguilo
Joelle Garguilo is a prominent television host, reporter, and producer known for her dynamic presence and engaging storytelling. As a versatile journalist, she has worked across various platforms, covering entertainment, lifestyle, and news.
Joelle shines on ABC News where her adept reporting spans a wide array of topics where her charisma and passion for storytelling come to the forefront. Born and raised in Long Island, New York, Joelle has a talent for connecting with audiences through her genuine and enthusiastic approach. Her career highlights include covering high-profile events and interviewing notable figures, cementing her reputation as a trusted and celebrated broadcaster.
“'Influence' is an interesting thing—when you finally possess it, you think of it differently.
For me, influence goes hand-in-hand with storytelling, and I
truly feel blessed to have a platform like ABC. There isn't just one defining moment for me... there have been many. Some are so small only I would notice... others are life-changing. Big or small, they all matter to someone… I know they do to me.
Seeing how a story can brighten someone's day or rally an entire community to save beloved small businesses—that's what it's all about. That's when it clicked: having influence is wonderful, but the real question is what you're going to do with it.
Whether I'm mentoring young women who are just finding their footing in this industry or advocating for people, places, and things that deserve recognition, I've committed myself to using my 'influence' to lift others up since the most meaningful influence isn't measured by followers—it's measured by the change you help create.”
Glenda Sansone, @TheEllingtonNYC
In 1995, Glenda Sansone came to America for what was supposed to be a brief two-week vacation. Unexpectedly, that trip turned into a lifelong adventure. Three decades later, she is the accomplished owner of two thriving restaurants, a devoted wife, and a loving mother to three wonderful children. Through hard work, passion, and determination, Glenda has established not only a successful business but also a rewarding life centered around family and community. Her journey embodies the strength of ambition, perseverance, and embracing unforeseen opportunities.
“By holding leadership positions, female restaurateurs serve as role models, demonstrating that women can successfully lead in a traditionally male-dominated field.”
“I recognized my impact by successfully leading an all-female management team at The Ellington. By holding leadership positions, female restaurateurs serve as role models, demonstrating that women can successfully lead in a traditionally male-dominated field. They often mentor other women, providing guidance and support to help them advance in their careers.”
Interview + Creative Direction by Vanessa Coppes
Photography by Nigel Barker
Photography Assistance by Toby Sprague and Christian Ern
Makeup by J. Brando and Leola B. Artistry
Hair by Yves Durif Salon | Tim Johnson and Jet Keefe
Styling by The Style Duo
Shoot Assistance by Aseel Shilleh, Alexis Lombardo, Danielle Kiriakos, M. Roman
Behind the Scenes Videography by Miguel Pichardo
Behind the Scenes Photography by Brandon Parker