Ambassador Program

Purpose

As part of the Ambassador Program, you will be one of the most visible “faces” of our organization. Your goals are to support and promote activities that are designed to have an impact on strengthening the business climate in our region. The Pride Chamber of Commerce (TPC) asks our Ambassadors to help us draw together business leaders for the purpose of increasing community awareness, goodwill, and economic growth for their business and the good of the Chamber. Ambassadors will work to strengthen overall relationships with members by assisting with Chamber events and creating awareness of the Chamber in the community. Ambassadors serve as greeters at Chamber events and generally foster goodwill among the membership.

What is an Ambassador?

Ambassadors are a walking testimonial to the good our Chamber does within the community.
Ambassadors are one of the most visible “faces” of the Pride Chamber of Commerce.
You are an elite extension of the Chamber membership.

Ambassador Objectives:

Support and promote the Pride Chamber’s activities that are designed to have an impact on strengthening the business climate in our region.
Strengthen overall relationships with Pride Chamber of Commerce members by assisting with/at Chamber events.
Promote the Pride Chamber’s Mission, Vision and Values.

Ambassador Committee

JoAnn Polley - Ambassador Chair

Owner of Infinite Ideas & Designs, a full-service graphic design company, founded in 1996.

I joined The Pride Chamber, formerly known as The Metropolitan Business Association, in April, 2011. At the time Gina Duncan was President, and thirteen years later it pleases me beyond measure that Gina has resumed that position.

The Pride Chamber has always been a place of welcome, acceptance and diversity, and I appreciate its strong sense of serving the community. Being an Ambassador provides me with the opportunity to promote the mission of the chamber, and make every member feel as welcome and valued as I felt, when I joined thirteen years ago.

Tyler Adams

Hello! My name is Tyler Adams, and I am proud to serve as an Ambassador for The Pride Chamber. I work with J Meyers Insurance Agency, one of the largest independent, family- and woman-owned insurance agencies in Central Florida. This year, I obtained my insurance license and began my career at J Meyers, a company celebrating its 50th anniversary. My journey in the insurance industry began when I met my mentor, Cathy, at one of The Pride Chamber's RED Groups. Over the course of a year, we built a strong professional relationship, which led to her offering me a full-time position at J Meyers. Without RED, this opportunity would never have presented itself.

What I love most about The Pride Chamber and the RED Group is the endless possibilities they offer. The Chamber has exceeded my expectations and opened doors to opportunities I never imagined. It’s a place where I can truly support and be a part of our vibrant community and its allies. I first learned about The Pride Chamber through a friend who recommended I join, knowing I was seeking a place where I could belong and contribute meaningfully. The Chamber has become a cornerstone in my professional and personal life, and I am excited to continue supporting and growing within this amazing community.

Steffen Brandt

My husband, Reiner, and I opened the first Bodystreet Studio in Winter Park, marking the debut of this innovative fitness concept in the USA.

Since joining the chamber six years ago, they have experienced significant success, building relationships with trusted business partners, long-time customers, and friends.

As an Ambassador, I take pride in helping others leverage the chamber’s connections to achieve their own success.

Michael Cano

Hello! My name is Michael Cano, and I serve as an HR Project Manager at Rosen Hotels & Resorts. With over 20 years in hospitality, I’m passionate about creating inclusive and meaningful experiences for employees and guests.

I first learned about The Pride Chamber during a conversation with friends, during which I shared my involvement in launching employee resource groups at Rosen. A friend encouraged me to connect with the Chamber, and after attending events in Fall 2024, I was inspired by its impact on our community.

Now, as a Pride Chamber Ambassador, I’m excited to give back, build connections, and support an inclusive and thriving business environment.

I hope to see you at future Business Connects and other Pride Chamber events soon!

Manuel Carames

I joined The Pride Chamber ten years ago when it was known as The Metropolitan Business Association (MBA). Since then, I have been a member either personally or through a company. The Chamber has always been a pivotal part of our business at BizzyNate. From the networking, to the sense of community; the need to support the organization is undeniable. My first experience with the Chamber began with my introduction to Gina Duncan. She inspired me in many ways, and always kept me coming back to the Chamber for more, and I am so pleased she has returned as she will continue to inspire me and my commitment to the chamber.

Brian Carboy

I have lived in Florida for 36 years although I am still very much a New Yorker.

I Spent over 30 years in the Hospitality business. I have worked front desk, guest services, bell services, concierge, wardrobe, housekeeping, custodial, third shift and renovations and have always been involved in Volunteerism.

It began with Disney Vount-ears, PAWS in the park, Walks for autism, Florida Aids Ride, Red Ribbon Ride, MS 150, Therapy Dogs International 8+ years, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Nemours, Give Kids the World Village, Kiwanis, Rose Dynasty Foundation Inc. Org., Great Cycle Challenge 3 years, Well of Hope Food Bank …

I love that through my businesses of Real Estate and CBD Wellness products I am able to help people. Real Estate allows me to help so many first home buyers change their lives and get into the right sized home. CBD wellness products allow people to feel and be their best in a very natural and harmonious way. Both businesses allow me to support my family while building community through the chamber. I am both proud and excited to support the Pride chamber as an ambassador and look forward to the continued growth we can all experience together.

Flor Matias Castro

Owner of Bodywork & Massage Therapy Art, Inc.

I've been a massage therapist for 11 years. I graduated from Florida college of Natural Health. I've been with the Chamber since 2019.

My friend Lu Mueller-Kaul was the president and has spoken highly about the chamber. I witnessed it for myself. She's right. I love being involved with the Chamber of commerce.

Mario Izquierdo

My name is Mario Izquierdo and I'm a Design Associate with Floor Coverings International, Winter Garden. I got involved with The Pride Chamber as I was invited as a guest to visit the RED Group and when I arrived, I was immediately greeted with love. People who didn't know me welcomed me, gave me hugs and asked for my assistance with their home. I then got invited to a Business Connect and was given a green dot sticker to wear. Immediately members of The Pride Chamber came up to me and introduced themselves to me and then made it a point to introduce me to someone because it was my first time visiting. I felt welcomed and encouraged and I joined The Pride Chamber and then the RED Group. I do my best to attend and meet with new and first-time visitors and try to help answer any questions that they may have.

When I saw members as Ambassadors, I immediately asked how I could get more involved with The Pride Chamber and I wanted to be an ambassador as I enjoy meeting new members and connecting with individuals. The Pride Chamber has become an extension of my family and I've developed relationships that will last a lifetime. I appreciate being considered as an Ambassador and I look forward to seeing you all on Wednesdays at the Business Connects.

Anthony Tufano

Hello, my name is Anthony Tufano! I joined The Pride Chamber in August 2023 with Rollins College, where I currently serve as an Associate Operations & Database Manager. Since then, I’ve been an active member of the Chamber and created many wonderful relationships during this time. When the opportunity recently presented itself to become an Ambassador of the Chamber, I was eager to start in this capacity to be able to be a welcoming face at events, help foster meaningful relationships among members and contribute to a more inclusive and thriving business environment. As someone passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and allied businesses in Central Florida, becoming an Ambassador felt like a natural extension of these values – the power of connection, inclusion and community-driven growth.

I'm proud to be a part of an organization that champions equality through economic empowerment and brings people together to build a stronger, more vibrant community. I'm excited to see you at our upcoming events and for the many impactful contributions I wish to leave during my time as a Pride Chamber Ambassador.

We Welcome You to Join Us.

If you have any questions about The Pride Chamber Ambassador Committee or would like to learn more about our organization, please contact us or join us online.