There are moments in community work when a conversation becomes more than a dialogue, it becomes a mirror. “The Generations of Wealth: The Legacy Continues” panel was one of those moments. Hearing the women on this panel speak so openly about their journey, their families and their purpose offered a rare and powerful look at what it truly means to build something that continues across generations. Their stories revealed how legacy is formed long before it becomes financial through exposure, discipline, sacrifice and a clear understanding of who we are
building for.
Latoya and Latrice Stirrup, founders of the sister-owned brand Kazmaleje, shared a personal and deeply rooted perspective on generational legacy. They are the great-granddaughters of G.W. Stirrup and Charlotte Jane, two visionaries who helped shape the fabric of Coconut Grove. They grew up with legacy as a living, everyday value. They spoke about growing up in Coconut Grove, attending family meetings as children, and learning early on that maintaining and expanding their family’s foundation was part of their responsibility. Their reflections showed how intentional exposure can shape purpose, confidence and direction.
Ramona Hall-Phillips, CEO and founder of Phillips Concessions, brought a powerful complementary perspective that focused on creating a legacy from the ground up. She spoke candidly about starting with a new vision and building something her children will one day stand on. Through her business she is laying the roots and routes for her family’s future and designing a foundation they grow from, expand and eventually pass forward. Her message highlighted the reality that generational wealth often begins with a courageous choice, the choice to begin, to sacrifice and to build for children who will benefit long after the work is done.
Across all three women, a shared theme stood out. We must move beyond right-now thinking and begin building with the future in mind. Generational wealth requires sacrifice, long-term focus and a commitment to ensuring that the next generation inherits more opportunities than obstacles. This message speaks directly to the heart of MDEAT’s mission. Our work whether through homeownership opportunities, economic development support or youth focused programming is designed to provide families with the tools, knowledge and pathways they need to build strong foundations.
The women’s panel did more than start a conversation. It offered a practical blueprint grounded in experience, cultural legacy and intentional action. It reminded us that generational wealth is possible when community, purpose and opportunity come together. Most importantly, it reinforced a truth we can’t overlook. The futures we build are not just for us. They are for the generations who
will follow.
Bill Diggs is the executive director of the Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust. Log on to www.miamidade.gov/MDEAT for more information about the agency’s programs and services.
