ENTERPRISING WOMEN OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS Winners with up to $1 Million in Annual Revenues Dez Stephens Radiant Health Institute Stuart, FL Dez Stephens is the founder of Radiant Health Institute, a professional coach training school certifying holistic coaches. A social entrepreneur and advocate, she has provided over $5 million in pro-bono coaching scholarships for women in poverty, refugees, and indigenous communities. Dez co-founded a nonprofit to offer free coaching to underserved women and mentors young female entrepreneurs. As a Master Certified Coach, she has been featured in the Ladies’ Home Journal, Brainz Magazine, Choice Magazine, and many more. Dez is the author of a book entitled The Qualitarian. She is dedicated to empowering women through coaching, mentorship, and education. Nikita Allen Growmetix® Charlotte, NC Nikita Allen is the founder of Growmetix®, a certified women-owned coaching and learning solutions firm empowering Black and Brown entrepreneurs. She leads Luna Launchpad™, a 10-week program for Black women founders transitioning from side hustles to sustainable businesses. Nikita volunteers with AMP UP! Charlotte, the City’s business accelerator, targeting minority businesses, and mentors business owners through Growmetix®. She is a member of the Greater Women’s Business Council and serves on the board of the North Carolina Black Entrepreneurs Council. Nikita has organized networking events for Become Charlotte, a group of Charlotte’s entrepreneur support organizations. She integrates technology into coaching and content creation, leveraging AI-driven engagement strategies. Tiana Ligon Swerve Financial Group, LLC Aldan, PA Tiana Ligon is the founder of Swerve Financial Group, LLC, providing virtual CFO and accounting services to small and mid-sized businesses. With over 10 years of experience in finance and tech sales, she supports women entrepreneurs through the Swerve(Her) Elevation Scholarship, supporting their path to economic independence. An alumna of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, Tiana serves as Chapter Chair for the WPO in Philadelphia and as fractional COO/CFO of Women Elevating Women, fostering female leadership. Her commitment to financial advocacy and mentorship strengthens local partnerships, empowering business owners with strategic financial guidance for sustainable growth. enterprising Women 75
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