Noteworthy Trailblazers

In the late 1970s, a group of educators from California initiated Women’s History Week to highlight women's overlooked contributions to America’s culture and society. What started as a small celebration in the school district of Sonoma, eventually spread across the country and, in 1987, became a month-long celebration when the U.S. Congress designated March as Women’s History Month.

In South Florida, the celebration doesn’t go unnoticed. Remarkable women have left an indelible mark on our community, bringing innovation and creativity to the area. Below, we feature two extraordinary women and their outstanding accomplishments.

Jennifer Horev, Co-Founder and Chief Brand Officer of Pura Vida Miami

From running a babysitting business at age 10 to becoming class president and cheerleading captain, Jennifer Horev’s entrepreneurial spirit fueled her life early on. Raised in South Florida, she learned the basis of a solid work ethic and the importance of valuable partnerships through her father’s business endeavors.

When the time came for the Chicago native to pursue something on her own, she was already equipped with the essential toolkit. “Pura Vida started as a passion project inspired by our [Horev and husband Omer] travels and eventually took on a life of its own, turning into a full-time, all-day cafe,” says Horev, 33. “We were drawn by the idea of creating a neighborhood cafe that served healthy options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between.”

Despite Pura Vida’s resounding success, with over 20 locations in South Florida, Horev knows firsthand the challenges women in business encounter. “If you’re too strong or powerful, you will be labeled. If you’re too soft, you won’t be taken seriously.”

Her strategy: harnessing her feminine energy and power. “I see being a woman in business as my biggest gift. We are able to tackle so many projects with great attention to detail.”

Reflecting on Women’s History Month, she says, “As a mother of two daughters, I want them to do and achieve whatever makes them happy. By celebrating Women’s History Month and looking back on the last 100 years, they will know how lucky they are to have the rights and opportunities we have today.”

For more information about Pura Vida, visit puravidamiami.com.

Roxana Garcia, Fox’s Lounge Executive Chef

Hailing from Venezuela, Chef Roxana Garcia is the epitome of resilience. Escaping her country’s unstable political climate, she made her way to the U.S. in 2016, looking for better opportunities in the culinary world. 

“I believe that sharing knowledge, serving people, making love tangible through food, working hard and consistently is what I like the most,” says Garcia, 44.

She attributes her passion for cooking to her mother. “She basically taught people with few resources to do things from which they could support themselves, cooking was one of them.”

As the executive chef at Fox’s Lounge, I’ve strived to bring a unique touch to our culinary offerings that celebrate the diverse cultural tapestry of Miami. Through small changes in flavors, I aim to combine the rich culinary traditions of various cultures in our dishes, creating an experience that resonates with our patrons on a deeper level,” she says.

Both as a chef and woman, Garcia aims to inspire other women to pursue their passions. “Through dedication, creativity, and commitment to excellence, I hope to continue making a positive impact both in the kitchen and beyond.”

For more information about Fox’s Lounge, visit foxslounge.com.