Tiffany K. Bain didn’t achieve the level of success she has earned in Fort Lauderdale by sitting around. But when it comes to taking her seat at the decision-making table, Bain is happy to fill it.
“I find it most fulfilling to have the opportunity to be my authentic self, as well as having the opportunity to be invited to the table to offer my perspective and input,” said Bain, chief of staff and director of administration and strategic initiatives. “It is a rewarding feeling to have someone show me that my voice matters when it comes to furthering our city’s mission.”
One of Legacy South Florida’s Top Women of Business and Industry for 2025, Bain joins a list of honorees whose leadership and contributions are impactful and trailblazing.
“I am truly humbled about being recognized by Legacy South Florida,” Bain said. “I am used to working behind-the-scenes, so the fact that someone thought so highly of me to nominate me for such a prestigious award continues to leave me speechless and simultaneously motivated to continue to strive for excellence.”
Saunja Terrell Burt, president of Jack and Jill of America’s Greater Fort Lauderdale Chapter, is “thrilled to be a part of a distinguished group and proud to contribute to South Florida’s rich history” as a 2025 award recipient.
“It is an honor and privilege to be recognized by Legacy South Florida, which has a tradition of honoring top-tier individuals and organizations in the community,” Burt added.
“What I find most fulfilling about the leadership roles I have taken on is the opportunity to empower others and see their growth firsthand,” she said, adding that Jack and Jill’s “focus is fostering leadership skills in all children.”
“It is always my goal to have a positive impact on whatever I choose to be a part of and hopefully make the road easier for those behind me.”
Also recognized among Legacy South Florida’s Top Women of Business and Industry for 2025 is Broward County District 7 Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis.
“As a Black female in a male-dominated role, I want people to recognize that they can achieve what I have achieved, and even greater,” said Davis, “and to recognize that there is a place for us as Black women in governance.”
Others in governance recognized include City of Lauderdale Lakes Mayor Veronica Edwards Phillips and City of Lauderhill Mayor Denise Grant. Edwards Phillips is a graduate of Lauderdale Local Government Academy. Grant received the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Leadership Award.
Melissa Dunn makes the 2025 list as a City of Lauderhill Commissioner and marketer.
“Whether I’m working as a commissioner, building leadership and management development programs for the cities we partner with, supporting small businesses through municipal initiatives, or empowering young women through the Hibiscus Girls Leadership Academy, every part of my calling is rooted in impact,” Dunn shared.
“I love bringing people together, strengthening systems, and developing strategies that help communities become healthier, safer, and more prosperous,” she continued. “Through my company, MD Marketing & Consulting, I get to work at the intersection of government, leadership, and community development. And through Freedom90 I help leaders realign their lives so they can show up with clarity, peace, and purpose, which ultimately strengthens the work they do in their organizations and communities. Dunn added that being able to use her gifts to uplift others is the greatest blessing of her career.
Honoree Nethel Stephens is president of North Broward County Deltas and CEO of Stephens Consulting, which provides financial guidance, including the 40-day money fast, “More-nopoly.”
“Providing vision and foresight for all the things that we do and being able to give vision and direction to women in our community, that is the most fulfilling part,” Stephens said of her leadership position with Delta.
Through Stephens Group, she hears her services described as life-changing.
“It’s what I’ve been put on this earth to do,” Stephens said, “to help people manage their personal finances.”
For her fashion contributions, Deborah Rose, CEO of Deborah Rose Designs, is also recognized. Identifying as a designer, dressmaker, teacher, and life coach, Rose says watching professionals flourish after they’ve taken her courses is gratifying.
“But my deepest and most fulfilling form of leadership goes beyond the skills I teach,” Rose reflected. “It lives in my interactions with the people I meet every day. I answer questions of all kinds and help people look within themselves to discover their direction — whether it’s love, work, partnership, or personal growth…Thank you, Legacy. This truly matters.”
