Resilience isn’t something you’re born with. It’s forged by life’s devastating losses and setbacks, which can stop anyone in their tracks. We spoke with seven local women who turned their pain into purpose, starting new careers and businesses and working to improve the lives of others. Their stories are inspirational.

Join us and other inspiring local women for an evening of celebration, connection, and fearless storytelling at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens on Thursday, July 24. For more information, click here.

In This Feature:

Emily Meinke Stood Up to Dr. Larry Nassar’s Sexual Abuse

“A lot of people don’t disclose an assault because the legal system is so intimidating. Our goal is to make survivors feel safe so that more people are held accountable.”

07/02/2025 By Stephanie Churn Lubow

Sonya Johnson Overcame Decades of Drug Addiction

“I live my recovery out loud in both my professional and personal lives,” Johnson says.

07/02/2025 By Stephanie Churn Lubow

Sigrid Olsen Conquered Business Collapse and Breast Cancer

“When I work with women in my retreats, I share with them my three-part process: Pause, breathe and reflect.”

07/02/2025 By Stephanie Churn Lubow

Barbara Chase Overcame Homelessness to Help Others in Need

“It feels so worthwhile to help others,” she says.

07/02/2025 By Stephanie Churn Lubow

Anastasia Vavrenyuk Started a New Life in a Foreign Land

“I’m a little bit in shock at how this business has taken on a life of its own.”

07/02/2025 By Stephanie Churn Lubow

Jennifer Martin Is Thriving After Paralysis

“When your world changes, you have to make a decision. Are you going to sit there and not do anything?"

07/02/2025 By Stephanie Churn Lubow

Danielle Wondrak Uses Her Own Childhood Grief to Heal Other Children

“There are more than 6,500 grieving children in the counties we serve. I’m grateful that I was in the right place at the right time to get this program started.”

07/02/2025 By Stephanie Churn Lubow

Sarasota Magazine

How Seven Local Women Turned Adversities Into Achievements

In This Feature:

Emily Meinke Stood Up to Dr. Larry Nassar’s Sexual Abuse

Sonya Johnson Overcame Decades of Drug Addiction

Sigrid Olsen Conquered Business Collapse and Breast Cancer

Barbara Chase Overcame Homelessness to Help Others in Need

Anastasia Vavrenyuk Started a New Life in a Foreign Land

Jennifer Martin Is Thriving After Paralysis

Danielle Wondrak Uses Her Own Childhood Grief to Heal Other Children