Meet Our Guest Speakers & Panelists!

Ms. Smoak has been with the Agency for Health Care Administration since August 1995. She is the Deputy Secretary of the Health Quality Assurance Division. The Division is responsible for the regulation and oversight of more than 30 types of health care facilities and businesses (providers) and managed care organizations and more than 50,000 facilities/providers, including nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, home health agencies, health care clinics, nurse registry, federally certified laboratories, and others.

Ms. Smoak is also the State Survey Agency Director for the State of Florida and holds a Master of Science in Health with a program emphasis on Aging Studies. She is also a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP). In 2009 and 2017, she received Survey & Certification Achievement Awards, presented by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, for her work in Survey and Certification.

Ms. Smoak received the 2024 Champion for the Elderly Award from the Florida Health Care Association (FHCA). The FHCA Champion for the Elderly Award is presented to individuals who have gone above and beyond to advocate for and enhance the care delivered in Florida’s long-term care centers.

President and CEO of Alliance Business Solution, “a business concierge company,” and a Certified SBA Lender. Eddie Mohamed comes from a well diverse banking, finance, and risk management. Eddie’s career was spent serving the business market.

Eddie has built a large network of funding sources over the years that include banking institutions, private lending institutions, private equity, private investors, and hard money lenders, creating an echo system for his clientele in effort to serve as a conduit for gaining access to urgently needed capital that otherwise would not have been attained through traditional bank financing means.

Alliance Business Solution is a Business Concierge company built around the premises of helping companies build a successful and recession-proof business. Our key objective when engaging a new client relationship is to assist with capital readiness, putting them in a position to meet challenges and opportunities head-on with confidence and optimism.

After accomplishing this task, we then seek to help our clients identify key areas of risk exposure, vulnerability, and potential cost savings, then address them with long term sustainable solutions. Our goal for each client is to build long term relationships and set them up for success. We look forward to working with you and becoming your business advocate for life

Marthe (Matha) Lawrence, B.S., R.N. is a dedicated healthcare professional with over 20 years of experience and a strong background in Senior Living Management. For the past 10 years, she has served as an Executive Director for both newly developed and well-established senior living communities, bringing excellence, compassion, and leadership to each role.

Married for 16 years and a proud mother of four wonderful daughters, Marthe embraces both her calling at home and her impact in the world. She delights in writing the Bible by hand daily—in multiple translations in the four languages she speaks—blending spiritual discipline with linguistic passion.

Marthe finds joy in family time, writing, teaching, walking, doing Pilates, and serving as the heart and Chief of her household. She is passionate about cultivating environments where people can thrive and is deeply committed to helping others walk in their God-given potential.

An aspiring writer, entrepreneur, strategic planner, and innovator, Marthe also walks boldly in her spiritual calling as the Lord’s prophetess. She is a woman of vision, faith, and action—always ready to collaborate, build, and pour into others.

Astrid Zayas is a multidisciplinary artist, certified art therapist, and expert in emotional expression through creative practices. Her mission is to make every participant feel seen, valued, and creatively alive. With a background in fiber arts, psychoanalysis, and senior engagement, Astrid brings warmth, depth, and joyful guidance to every class.

Email: [email protected]

Shayla N. Waldon, Esq. is the Founder and Managing Attorney of The Waldon Law Firm, PLLC, where she represents businesses across the country in employment and business law matters.

A magna cum laude graduate of the University of Miami School of Law and a former BigLaw attorney, Shayla brings a practical, human-centered approach to helping clients navigate issues like workplace discrimination, ADA compliance, and multi-state employment policies. She is a frequent speaker, published author, and was named a Super Lawyers® Rising Star in 2024 and 2025. Shayla also serves on the boards of Florida Legal Services and the Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County.

Shellie Young, owner of MAC Media Services and founder of Legacy Studio Media, brings over a decade of marketing expertise to the senior care industry. With more than six years dedicated specifically to marketing for nursing homes and assisted living facilities, Shellie has a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities these facilities face. Her innovative approach combines strategic insight, creative content, and a passion for helping organizations build meaningful connections with their communities.

As a leader in the field, Shellie is committed to equipping facilities with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in today's digital landscape. Her expertise makes her a trusted resource for those looking to enhance their brand, recruit quality staff, and engage effectively with their audience.

Presentation Topic: Navigating Social Media and AI in Today's Assisted Living Facility

Known as The Soulful Creatrix, Dr. Asia Taylor is a renowned intuitive energy and sound healer, spiritual guide, and psychology empath. With a deep commitment to personal growth and spiritual awakening, she offers transformative services such as Intuitive Spiritual Coaching, Divine Path Consultation, energy and sound healing sessions, and Crystal Bowl Sound Baths.

Asia uses her gifts of energy healing in her work as a Death Doula, providing compassionate support and guidance through life's transitions. Discover more about her work HERE

Alexandra Silva Labarr is a dynamic international speaker, author, and business strategist known for her expertise in networking, leadership, and brand development. As the founder and CEO of Xandra Marketing & PR, she has spent over 25 years helping businesses amplify their presence through strategic content, digital marketing, and lead generation.

With a career spanning corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and community impact, Alexandra has served on multiple boards and is the 2025 President of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Fort Lauderdale. She has been recognized for her leadership and dedication, earning awards such as the Loyalty and Leadership Award for her 15+ years of service to the organization.

Alexandra is also the author of The Power of Networking, a book that unpacks her signature Seven Essential Cs of Networking, helping professionals forge high-level connections and grow their influence. Her keynote, Dream Big, Take Action, has inspired audiences across industries to step out of their comfort zones, show up consistently, and take bold action toward their goals.

As a passionate connector and advocate for professional growth, Alexandra is committed to empowering individuals and businesses through collaboration, authenticity, and strategic networking.

Stephan Adelson is the new District Ombudsman Manager for Broward County, Florida Department of Elder Affairs. He is the former President of Adelson Consulting Services which provided technical support to federal and local entities in their use of web-based technologies for disease intervention, prevention, and health education.

Marline Paul is a Technology Integration Expert and creator of the transformative 3T Framework: Transform, Train, and Tool Up. With 17+ years bridging education and innovation, she helps organizations confidently navigate the AI revolution while maintaining their authentic voice.

As founder of Enilram Creative Solutions, Marline has guided 1,600+ entrepreneurs through the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center's programs and now leads the 3T Leaders Community, providing strategic technology implementation guidance nationwide.

A dynamic speaker at University of Central Florida on "Digital Marketing & AI" and the SCORE Broward Expo, Marline brings a unique perspective as a certified business coach and graduate of the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women: Black in Business program.

Her woman-owned, military spouse-owned business specializes in ethical AI implementation for universities, government contractors, and organizations seeking to move from technology confusion to confidence.

Brian Bursa is a founder and administrative partner of Ullman Bursa Law. Mr. Bursa’s practice includes the defense of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, as well as guardianship law.

Mr. Bursa also serves as outside general counsel to small and medium size nursing homes and assisted living companies. Mr. Bursa is a frequent speaker at client forums and association conferences on a variety of topics.

Mr. Bursa is a member of the Florida Bar (past member of the Executive Council, Practice Management Section); Florida Assisted Living Association (board of directors); Florida Health Care Association (past member of board of directors, past chairman of associate member support committee, conference committee, preferred business associate); Leading Age Florida (business council); Florida Senior Living Association; Florida Society for Healthcare Risk Management & Patient Safety (conference committee); and Defense Research Institute.

Mr. Bursa has served as legislative counsel for the Florida Health Care Association, wherein he assists with the drafting of tort reform legislation for the benefit of operators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Mr. Bursa has testified before multiple house and senate committees of the Florida Legislature on behalf of the long term care profession. Mr. Bursa maintains a rating of AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, which is based upon the opinions of judges and attorneys in Florida.

Sonia is a highly-motivated entrepreneur and attorney with a diverse background. Fluent in Spanish, Sonia has been an attorney for almost 20 years, has worked as an analyst at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), a translator intern at the Hague International Court, served as a Judicial Clerk in Probate Court, counseled numerous foreign nationals through the process of establishing an LLC in the US, and served as in house counsel for 8 years.

She firmly believes in empowering others. As an attorney and consultant, Sonia helps entrepreneurs and families create, protect, and transfer generational wealth.

David Paul is a dedicated professional in the medical industry with a career spanning over 15 years. After earning his bachelor's degree in marketing and business administration in 2008, he began his journey with a prestigious home health company, providing community outreach services for nursing and skilled therapy in patients' homes. Through strategic networking and marketing, he built strong relationships with social workers, hospitals, and doctors' offices, laying a solid foundation for his career.

Driven by a passion for helping others, David transitioned to a sole proprietor role, leading him to establish an assisted living facility placement agency. His commitment to service expanded further when he founded a substance abuse and mental health treatment center, where he made a significant impact in the community. However, due to the pandemic and other circumstances, he pivoted to a new path while maintaining his dedication to healthcare and support services.

Beyond business, David is a devoted philanthropist, generously donating his time, resources, and expertise to assist those in need. He actively engages in volunteer initiatives and provides extensive pro bono work, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to improving lives.

Today, David is the proud owner of several independent living facilities and is in the process of obtaining a license to open a mental health clinic, strategically located across the street from Florida Medical Center. His dedication to both business and community service reflects his holistic approach to making a difference in the healthcare industry.

David is also a board member of the Florida Assisted Living Association (FALA) Broward Chapter, further solidifying his influence and contributions to the industry.

Erika Obando is an internationally acclaimed TEDx Speaker, Author and Master Certified Life Coach. She is the Founder & CEO of TPE Coaching & Consulting and is known for her unwavering commitment as an advocate for living a life of purpose.

Drawing from her own remarkable story of overcoming unthinkable hardships, as she documented in her book entitled “Without a Voice – A Woman’s Journey to Resiliency”, Erika dedicated herself to guiding others on a path towards understanding their own power and uncovering their true potential.

Her mission revolves around empowering individuals in rewriting their life stories and embracing their roles as the Authors of their own narratives.

Through her expertise and proven techniques, Erika equips communities to not only thrive but to also accomplish audacious aspirations, regardless of the obstacles they face. Her story is one of transformations from Victim to Victorious!

Recognized as one of South Florida’s 'Most Influential and Prominent Black Women in Business and Industry,' and recipient of the 2021 'Legacy Builder Award,' M. Denise Simmons, of Haitian Descent, is a changemaker who is determined to revolutionize her community through the entertainment and healthcare industries. Alongside her husband Mario, they have recently become franchise owners of Wisdom Senior Care, providing compassionate care to seniors in their homes.

Some of her most notable works include winning the 2019 Best Documentary Feature Film for '#BeforeYouShoot,' a film about humanizing the lives of black men in America, and working on Issa Rae’s HBO Max Series hit show, 'Rap Sh!t.'

Denise is also an excited Board Member of The South Florida Institute on Aging. Additionally, she is a proud member of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, Broward County Black Chamber of Commerce, and The Bridge Church where her entire family attends and serves. A giver at heart, Denise can also be found hosting dance chair exercises, called ‘Grooving In The Chair W/ Wisdom,’ throughout senior living communities in Broward County.

Djemcy Limage is the Co-founder and President of Xplo Group LLC, a prominent full-service general contracting firm based in Florida. Specializing in new construction, home remodeling, general engineering, Assistant Living Facility (ALF) Permitting, landscaping, and real estate Development. Xplo Group offers comprehensive services for residential and commercial projects.

With over a decade of experience, Djemcy has developed a proven track record in General Contracting, Construction Management, Project Management, Traffic Engineering and Real Estate Consulting. He has successfully overseen a wide range of projects, including residential and commercial construction, transportation planning, roadways, utilities, and parks, ensuring seamless execution from initial planning through project completion.

Djemcy has been instrumental in driving major projects across Florida, collaborating with respected organizations such as Marlin Engineering, the Florida Department of Transportation, the City of Boca Raton, and Avanti Way Realty. His leadership and expertise have played a key role in shaping some of the region’s most significant developments.

Beyond his professional achievements, Djemcy is passionate about giving back to his community and mentoring young adults. He dedicates time to inspiring the next generation to excel academically, business, technology, healthcare, and construction trades. He is also dedicated to supporting migrants, assisting in navigating the new environment and building successful futures.

A passionate advocate for Haiti, Djemcy has volunteered in the country, focusing on missionary work and providing essential training to underserved communities. He is a founding member of the Alliance Gonaïvienne d'Outre-Mer (AGOM), a non-profit organization established in 2020 by a group of Gonaïviens citizens living in the diaspora. AGOM’s mission is to strengthen the economy of Gonaïves through public interest projects and to promote educational and cultural initiatives that support the city’s social development.

Djemcy’s strong educational background has been a cornerstone of his success. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and a Minor in International Politics from Florida International University (FIU). Additionally, he is a licensed General Contractor and Real Estate professional, further enhancing his expertise and ability to lead projects across various sectors.

Robert Morestin is a seasoned mortgage professional with over 20 years of industry experience, the Managing Member of Horizon Mortgage Group, and a licensed Loan Originator. He specializes in a wide range of mortgage products, including refinances, conventional loans, FHA, VA, non-conforming loans, as well as commercial and SBA financing. With this extensive expertise, Robert has successfully guided first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors, and business owners in achieving their financial and homeownership goals.

Deeply committed to making homeownership more accessible, Robert is especially passionate about programs like the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program, which helps frontline community workers and military service members achieve the dream of owning a home.

Fluent in English, French, and Creole, Robert connects seamlessly with diverse audiences, breaking down complex lending information into clear, actionable guidance. He has built his career on trust, transparency, and personalized service, becoming a valued advisor to homebuyers, real estate professionals, and community organizations.

Faith-Marie Griffiths is the founder of Treasure Coast Senior Placement Solutions, a MSN-RN , a 2x Entrepreneur, Speaker, Wife, Mother, and Podcast host to Caring for Aging Loved One. Faith-Marie Griffiths has been at the forefront of healthcare and senior care for over 3 decades helping senior leverage compassion and care.

Faith-Marie is active in her local church as a Sunday School teacher and is a Youth Advisor to the youth department. She currently works in the oncology space and loves working with seniors.

Faith-Marie is also a mobile notary public. In her spare time, she volunteers at the local church food pantry and special needs VBS.
Faith-Marie’s passion comes from being a power of attorney to her aging parents. She is constantly advocating for them which gave birth to her businesses.

Sharon Reich is a Senior Trust Advisor for AGED Trust, where she works with clients to implement and administer special needs trusts. She has been involved with the trust industry since 1991 and specializes in providing Trust services to seniors and persons with disabilities.

Sharon speaks throughout the community to educate and promote awareness of special needs trusts and government benefits.

Sharon earned her Finance degree from the University of Central Florida and is an Honor Graduate of Cannon Financial Institute Trust School. She obtained her designation as a Certified Trust and Financial Advisor in 1998 and as a Certified Senior Advisor in 2011. Advocates & Guardians for the Elderly & Disabled, Inc. (AGED Trust)

Email: [email protected]

Anchal Bahl is the Administrator and Owner of Share Love & Care, a 24-bed assisted living facility in Lake Worth, Florida, dedicated to creating spaces where residents and families feel peace of mind. With a Master’s in Computer Science and more than 20 years of leadership experience across technology, healthcare, education, and HR, Anchal brings a unique blend of strategic vision and heart-centered care to the senior living industry.

At Share Love & Care, she has built systems that balance operational efficiency with genuine human connection - optimizing resident care, staff training, and family communication while cultivating a joyful culture. Known by her team and community as the “Ambassador of Smiles,” Anchal champions the belief that kindness and wellbeing are not only good for people, but also for business.

Anchal’s current focus includes expanding her reach in assisted living space and launching initiatives such as Caregivers Breathe First and Threads of Purpose, which place humanity at the heart of care.
“At Share Love & Care, we believe that humanity is the most powerful system we can build.”

Lissette Herrera is a seasoned real estate broker and investor with over 13 years of experience in Connecticut and Florida. In 2024, she expanded her expertise into the senior living sector by partnering with investors to acquire and manage a 55-bed assisted living facility in Claxton, Georgia.

Her work is driven by a passion for creating vibrant, nurturing communities where seniors can continue to grow and thrive. Lissette is actively expanding her impact in the senior living industry, advocating for innovative practices that prioritize the wellbeing and experience of older adults.

Frantz Elijah Machoule is an experienced accountant with over 15 years of dedicated service to small business owners, helping them unlock their financial potential. Holding an accounting degree from Hodges University and a doctorate in ministry from Liberty University, Frantz combines his extensive education with a deep passion for holistic financial guidance. His journey has been one of perseverance and growth, having arrived in the U.S. in his early twenties with humble beginnings as a dishwasher, then progressing through roles such as Publix clerk, accounts receivable/payable specialist, tax preparer, and ultimately becoming a small business owner.

These experiences have given Frantz a unique perspective and the ability to relate to the everyday challenges faced by business owners. His motto of "commitment to excellence" has guided his work, and he takes pride in building lasting relationships with clients by truly understanding their needs and offering tailored financial solutions.

In his free time, Frantz enjoys reading and cherishing moments with his family. Currently, he is working on his first book, adding to his dedication to continuously inspire and educate others on the importance of sound financial practices.

Siomara Barboza, an accomplished mortgage lender with more than two decades of experience in the industry, takes immense pride in her role at CrossCountry Mortgage. Her commitment to exceptional service has earned her a loyal clientele consisting mainly of satisfied past clients and their referrals.

One of the cornerstones of Siomara's business is efficient communication. She firmly believes that keeping clients well-informed throughout the process is key to ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. Her dedication and strong work ethic are evident in every transaction she handles. She pays meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the mortgage process is carefully managed, and her clients' best interests are prioritized.

Beyond Siomara's personal expertise, she is fortunate to lead a fully fluent Spanish-speaking team, enabling her to cater to a broad audience and better serve the diverse needs of her community.
When she's not busy helping people achieve their homeownership dreams, Siomara is spending quality time with her young son—enjoying the outdoors and traveling together to create treasured memories that fuel her passion for life and enrich her perspective as a mortgage lender.

If you are seeking a trusted partner to guide you through your homebuying journey, Siomara is here to help.

Rose T. Limage is a compassionate and experienced Registered Nurse with extensive background in the nursing field, with a strong focus on hospice and home health care. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and an MBA in Healthcare Management, blending clinical expertise with leadership and healthcare system knowledge.

In her current role, Rose provides specialized care for patients with chronic and terminal illnesses, developing care plans that emphasize comfort, dignity, and quality of life. She works closely with families and interdisciplinary teams, ensuring that patients receive not only skilled clinical care but also emotional and spiritual support during challenging times.

Her MBA training gives her a unique perspective in care coordination, compliance, and operational efficiency strengthening both patient outcomes and the overall quality of services provided.

Rose is known for her steady presence, patient advocacy, and dedication to mentoring fellow caregivers and nurses. She is passionate about creating a supportive, compassionate environment within home health, hospice, and assisted living care.
Outside of her professional life, Rose enjoys traveling, staying active, spending time with family, and exploring new recipes in the kitchen.

Marsha Benjamin is a top-producing real estate broker recognized for millions in residential and commercial sales across South Florida. Known for her results-driven approach, Marsha blends deep market knowledge, sharp negotiation skills, and creative marketing to deliver exceptional outcomes for buyers, sellers, and investors.

As a respected leader, she manages and mentors a thriving team of agents, fostering growth, innovation, and collaboration within her brokerage. With in-house mortgage and title services, her firm ensures clients enjoy a seamless real estate experience. A visionary mentor, Marsha has also guided many agents to become broker-owners of their own 1st Class Real Estate South Florida franchises.

With over two decades of executive leadership experience supporting childcare centers, churches, assisted living facilities, and group homes, Marsha brings a unique business perspective that drives both brand and financial success. She holds a Bachelor’s in Business Management from Northwood University and advanced studies in MBA Entrepreneurship from Nova Southeastern University, combining education and passion to empower clients and professionals to achieve their real estate goals.

Valencie Exceus, also known as Vie, is a Licensed Acupuncturist in Florida, serving the South Florida community since 2006. Board certified by the NCCAOM, she is deeply committed to compassion and competence in her practice as an Oriental Medicine practitioner.

Vie’s lifelong exploration of culture, spirituality, and medicine has shaped her holistic view of healing. She focuses on the impact of individual, ancestral, and collective trauma, using her diverse skills to support others in their journey toward wholeness and interconnectedness. She often speaks on the topic of trauma on various radio stations and regularly on Bonjour Haiti with Elizabeth Guerin.

With 19 years of clinical experience, Vie has treated an array of health conditions including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. In addition to her clinical work, she is a retreat facilitator, writer, speaker, and storyteller. Her passions include helping people, finding emotional balance, and facilitating embodied meditation and healing circles that inspire individuals to connect and be more integrated.

Fabiola Estera is a seasoned health care and human services advocate, American businesswoman, and philanthropist with over 14 years of experience in assisted living and senior care. Starting her career as a mental health counselor working with individuals with developmental disabilities in New England and New York, Fabiola transitioned into senior living after relocating to Florida in 2013.

She has held key leadership roles, including Office Manager, Business Development Director, and Consultant, where she has not only driven census growth but also secured federal contracts with the VA, Medicare, and Medicaid, while partnering with the Alzheimer’s Association to expand outreach and bring innovative support to families in need.

Fabiola is widely recognized for her compassion, consistency, and unwavering commitment to the families and communities she serves. Whether managing crisis situations like hurricanes or navigating the challenges of COVID-19, she approaches her work with resilience and heart, always seeing residents as if they were her own parents — a philosophy that guides her sensitive, people-centered leadership. Her efforts have earned her multiple awards, including the SHARE Achievement Award (2018–2020), and the gratitude of countless families who have witnessed her dedication firsthand.

Beyond her work in senior living, Fabiola holds dual degrees in Communication and Psychology from Rhode Island College and has collaborated with global organizations such as Doctors Across Borders, bringing her back to her native Haiti — a place of deep cultural pride and inspiration for her ongoing philanthropic efforts.

Looking ahead, Fabiola is eager to expand her impact at the corporate level, where she can continue shaping compassionate, effective senior care on an even broader scale.

My name is Janette Flores. Originally from Kenosha, WI and moved to Florida in 2008 for Physical therapy school. I met my now husband in 2010. We've been married for 11 years and have 3 kids (15, 7 and 5 yo). Our oldest is our nephew we've been raising since he was 4yo but he is our son the same as our bio babies!

Professionally, I have been a PT primarily in neuro rehab for 14 years and currently still work 1 day per week in an outpatient Neuro clinic. During covid, when my 3rd child was 5 days old I signed up for my Real Estate class. I've now been licensed/working as a realtor for 3.5 years. I have now learned how beautifully the two professions blend together and I get to do what I love best, help the elderly during some of the most challenging times of their lives.

I am passionate about hearing the person out and really learning what they need to live a fulfilled and meaningful life. I have seen fear drive most people of age's decisions. If I can help even one person be in a better place and smile, I feel I am doing right by God. My professional prayer has always been, "God I cannot do it alone, but guide my hands and my heart to help this person in front of me."

With over two decades of legal experience, Andrew Rosenberg, founder of Rosenberg Law Firm, has successfully guided numerous clients through a wide range of legal matters — from defending individuals facing criminal charges to recovering millions of dollars in personal injury claims.

Today, Mr. Rosenberg focuses his practice on providing comprehensive Estate Planning and Elder Law services to individuals and families throughout South Florida. His goal is to help clients prepare for a secure and comfortable future, protect their assets, and preserve their legacy — because thoughtful planning today ensures peace of mind tomorrow.

Rosenberg Law Firm also offers free estate planning workshops every two weeks, providing valuable information to help individuals and families make informed decisions about their future. To sign up, please call (954) 755-7803 or visit our website at www.rosenberglawfirm.net.