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.
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.
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.
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.
Paul Holzmeyer
My name is Paul Holzmeyer and I’m a Mortgage Loan Officer with SWBC Mortgage. We’re a Direct to Fannie Mae Lender specializing in Residential Mortgages and Refinances with a bunch of products to meet the needs of a variety of buyers and scenarios. When I’m not working I’m a dad to two four year old boys and husband to Mike.
I’ve been a member of the Pride Chamber for just under a year now and am currently the Chair of RED North. I joined largely to find community in addition to business. It can be a challenge existing as a member of our community in our state at times, and finding a group that understands that and perseveres has helped me both mentally and in the business space. I would say 60% of my clients have come from referrals in the Pride Chamber since joining.
I find so much joy in serving the underrepresented and creating a safe space/experience for our community during one of the biggest purchases of their lives. I’m here to grow the Chamber, my Network, and to let the world know that the LGBTQIA+ community are their neighbors, fellow business contacts, and, above all else, equals.
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.
Sofia Ramos Nader
Hi everyone! My name is Sofia Ramos and I work for ADP. I started out at ADP as an intern and I've been with them ever since! In total, I've been with the company for about a year and six months. Soon after starting, I was invited to join the pride chamber by one of my colleagues. This was my first job out of college, and I wanted to network, make friends, build, and form connections.
From my first Business Connect, I knew immediately I had to join. Everyone was so inviting, and the community of people made you feel like you’re at home (especially those in Red Group South).
I would lastly like to thank those that selected me for this role. I’m so proud to be able to represent the chamber as an ambassador and I’m super excited to build deeper connections with those I have and have yet to meet!
Brian Bodnarik
I'm Brian, Senior Project Manager at FASTSIGNS Orlando Central, UCF Graduate, and proud father of two daughters, Layla and Abigail.
I love helping clients overcome marketing challenges with tailored solutions, ensuring the process is enjoyable to come back again and share their experiences since everything is about relationships. My toolkit includes Adobe CS and some cutting-edge AI design tools.
I've had the privilege of developing and managing major client accounts for The City of Orlando, Orange County, UCF, Avis Budget Group, Samsung, Greystar, Frank Gay Services, and Shalom Orlando. In addition, I lead sales training and participate in annual FASTSIGNS Sales Summits to continually enhance my sales, design, and communication skills.
Follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected. My journey has been incredible. Please reach out directly for marketing or printing projects, I'll always be ready to help you Make Your Statement.
On a personal note, Thor played a key role in introducing us to the Chamber. As part of Mills 50, he simply walked in and connected us, making me realize the Pride Chamber had been around for years. I'm now committed to paying it forward and helping other businesses become aware of this fantastic network of like-minded business owners, professionals, and ally community.
I'm deeply passionate about equality and fairness. I believe that fostering an inclusive business environment not only ignites creativity and innovation but also strengthens our sense of community. Every voice deserves to be heard and respected, paving the way for a more inclusive future for all businesses and their patrons in Orlando.
Mario Izquierdo
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.