Naples: Lessons from the Top: How Great Entrepreneurs Built Their Success!

In the month of June the Above Board Chamber events/meetings will  shines a light on the real-world journeys of some of Southwest Florida’s most accomplished entrepreneurs and business leaders. This dynamic discussion will uncover how each panelist turned early obstacles into opportunities, made bold decisions to grow their companies, and stayed true to their mission while adapting to change. You’ll walk away with practical insights, inspiration, and tools to elevate your own business or professional path.

Naples: Lessons from the Top: How Great Entrepreneurs Built Their Success!

Monday, June 9th  at the Hilton Naples 

Panel discussion (11:30 to 1:00) 💬 
Optional Mini Workshop (1:00 PM – 1:30 PM)

💼 Sponsors:

• Kena Yoke, Vice President, Island Piling, Inc.
• Amanda Lucey, CEO, The Partnership 
• Peter Ocsody, PhD,. Program Director, Daveler Institute of Entrepeneurship at Florida SouthWestern State College

🎤 Emcee:

Dr. Dawn Belamarich is President and CEO of Collaboratory, a community foundation committed to solving Southwest Florida’s biggest social challenges by 2040. A Cape Coral resident originally from New Jersey, she brings extensive leadership experience in both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, including behavioral health and social services. Previously, she held executive roles at Recovery Centers of America and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, with multiple clinical credentials. Dr. Belamarich also serves on the board of the ARCHway Institute and holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and Leadership, along with dual master’s degrees in Sociology/Criminology and Mental Health Counseling. LinkedIn

👥 Panelists:

Kristen Coury Wynn is the Founder, CEO, and Producing Artistic Director of Gulfshore Playhouse, which she launched in 2004. Under her leadership, the Playhouse has grown to a staff of 80 with a $14.5M annual budget and no debt. She spearheaded the development of a $72M state-of-the-art theatre in downtown Naples, made possible through one of the city’s largest public/private partnerships. A former Broadway professional, Kristen has also directed a feature film and produced music. She serves on the board of the Greater Naples Chamber and was appointed to the Florida Council on Arts and Culture in 2023. Her honors include Gulfshore Life’s Men & Women of the Year (2013, 2024), the Murray Hendel Award for Civic Achievement, and recognition as one of Collier County’s Top 100 Most Influential Business Leaders. LinkedIn

Amanda Lucey is CEO of The Partnership, a privately held marketing and communications firm started in 1979, with employees in Georgia, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. A change agent who scaled her first venture, before acquiring The Partnership. With 20+ years in branding, PR, and crisis comms—including leadership roles with U.K. and U.S. governments—she helps mission-driven organizations grow through strategic storytelling. Amanda co-authored Upheaval and is a speaker who leads with grit and a passion for purposeful growth. LinkedIn

Kena Yoke, Vice President of Island Piling, Inc. and Managing Member of Island Piling Manufacturing, LLC, brings 40+ years of expertise in construction, administration, and project coordination. A former founder of Kena Yoke Consulting, she pioneered virtual office solutions post-2008. Known for leadership in business and philanthropy, Kena supports veteran initiatives and nonprofits like Collier-Lee Honor Flight and Freedom Waters Foundation. Her passion for community and service is inspired by her lifelong commitment to connection and building relationships. LinkedIn

Jennifer Johnson is the Founder of True Fashionistas, Florida’s largest lifestyle resale store, and creator of The Confident Entrepreneur, a platform empowering small business owners to succeed without sacrificing balance. A former national model and actress, Jennifer is the bestselling author of Grace & Grit and host of The Confident Entrepreneur podcast. She’s been featured on national TV, radio, and in publications including TIME, Newsweek, Vogue, and Real Simple, and is a sought-after speaker both locally and nationally. She is passionate about helping entrepreneurs grow with confidence, clarity, and grace. LinkedIn