Alejandra Perez-Mendoza Founder, Romanicos Chocolates Coral Gables
“I love Maria Corina Machado, who is a leader from Venezuela,” Alejandra Perez-Mendoza said. “She just won the [2025] Nobel [Peace] Prize. She [perseveres] and she has been very important for 20 years. I learned from her [to be] resilient no matter what, and keep [focusing on] your vision, no matter what.”
Andrea Gonzalez Owner, Andori Miramar
“I would go with Frida [Kahlo], because she was kind of a rebel, she didn’t care what anyone said,” Andrea Gonzalez said. “She was like ‘I do what I want, and I’m going to do it, no matter that I’m a female.’ I think back then it was very hard to be an artist. She took all of her pain and made it into art. I think it’s something artists can use today [their pain] to express themselves.”
Ralph Iles III Founder, Principal Engineer ILH Engineering Miami Lakes
“[Actress and inventor] Hedy Lamarr, because she created time division coding which was used first [during] World War II, but then later became the basis for our cellular communication,” Ralph Iles III said.
Melissa Alvarez Associate Attorney, The Law Office of Gloria M. Garcia Miami Lakes
“As an attorney, I would be remiss to not give credit to Ruth Bader Ginsburg,” Melissa Alvarez said. “She’s been a pivotal woman in history, for women in the law, women’s rights and equality under the law and the workplace [and] representation throughout history. I definitely think that she is someone that is an influential, powerful and just overall a great example of a woman in history who advocates for not only herself but those around her and making sure women are recognized in a room the same way men are.”
Kimberly Trelles Owner, The Trelles Cottage boutique Miami Lakes
“Princess Diana transformed the royal role into one of compassionate advocacy, utilizing her global influence for good,” Kimberly Trelles wrote in an email. “Beyond her humanitarian work, she was a dedicated mother to her two sons.”
Alexandra Herrera interviewed our Town Topics talkers and photographed everyone except Kimberly Trelles, who shared her photo. We thank you all!