Welcome Message From Our President, Valeska Martins |
| Dear ICF South Florida Community, |
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October arrives wrapped in autumn's deeper wisdom—and while Florida's palms may not turn copper and gold, we feel the season's profound invitation nonetheless. This is nature's time of harvesting, of gathering what we've cultivated, and of turning inward to prepare for the richness ahead.
Autumn teaches us that true growth happens in the turning inward. We're called to invest in our inner landscape—to warm our spirits, deepen our practices, and create the cozy spaces where transformation can quietly unfold.
What a magnificent September we experienced! |
Programming Committee brought fresh energy to The MasterClass by Master Coaches while keeping the consistency of high standards, our Strategic Alliances continue opening doors—especially our exciting partnership with BoldHaus, nurturing business-building mindset. Our Coach-A-Latte and Wellbeing gathering events reminded us of face-to-face connection's irreplaceable magic, while the Membership Committee welcomes new members almost weekly and the unstoppable Outreach Committee moves boldly into Coaching in Education and HR & Coaching projects!
These fruits of our collective dedication—connections forged, wisdom exchanged, partnerships blossoming—are the provisions we're storing for the months ahead.
Now October brings some extraordinary harvests that embody everything this season represents:
Our Fishbowl session with MCC Paulette Rao provides powerful opportunities to refine coaching skills in real-time.
Our Core Competencies Fall Summit (October 13-17) offers an amazing lineup of speakers deepening our learning on what lies at coaching's very heart. The ICF Core Competencies differentiate us—they are our North Star in building respectful and successful practices. Join us in this learning journey, enriching your practice and strengthening the foundation that sustains everything we do.
Beyond our local community, ICF Converge (October 23-25) returns to where it all began—San Diego—as ICF celebrates 30 years of transforming societies. This global conference promises connection, learning, and expansion, inviting us to collaborate, grow, and inspire—keeping alive our ICW themes from May as we solidify our presence in the community of "impact makers."
As we move through October, I invite you to reflect: What goals are you actively harvesting? What seeds are ready to be gathered and celebrated? What do you want to cultivate in these remaining months of 2025?
This is the season for meaningful conversations that warm the soul, for investing in professional development that sustains you. Let's embrace this season of turning inward, storing up wisdom and connection, honoring our accomplishments while preparing for the purposeful completion of this remarkable year. |
Here's to October's promise of abundant harvest, profound learning, and the kind of deep, sustaining growth that happens when we invest in ourselves, our community, and the coaching profession we love!
Warmly, |
Valeska Martins
President, ICF South Florida Chapter |
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Prepare for the 2025 Core Competencies Summit:
October 13–17 |
| We are excited to announce the Core Competencies Summit, taking place from October 13th to 17th, 2025. This five-day event offers an incredible opportunity to enhance and deepen your coaching skills and learn more about new tools, systemic team coaching, and how to integrate AI into your profession. |
Why This Summit Matters
This summit serves as a unique catalyst for achieving coaching excellence. Whether you are an experienced professional or an emerging coach, you will benefit from:
- An engaging learning environment focused on coaching best practices
- Opportunities for face-to-face discussions with leading experts from around the globe
- Practical tools and techniques to enrich your coaching repertoire
- A network of peers to inspire and collaborate with throughout your journey
- 16 Renowned Speakers + 20+ CCEUs
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| Featured Speakers |
| Prepare to be inspired by an exceptional lineup of speakers, including: |
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| These distinguished speakers will share their insights, experiences, and enthusiasm, integrating theory with interactive sessions. |
Who Should Attend
This event is designed for:
- Certified coaches and practitioners
- Leaders and executives with a coaching perspective
- Learning and development professionals
- Organizational consultants driving change
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| If your passion lies in growth, impact, and fostering the development of others, this summit is an opportunity you won't want to miss! |
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How to Participate
- Visit the ICF South Florida website for detailed information.
- Everyone is welcome, regardless of membership status; however, members will receive additional benefits, including access to recorded sessions.
- Come prepared to engage, experiment, and connect.
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We eagerly anticipate a summit that will not only enhance your coaching expertise but also nurture new connections, provide profound insights, and reignite your passion for your work!
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| Book Corner by Bari Schanerman |
The Fifth Agreement –
A Toltec Wisdom Book
Don Miguel Ruiz & Don Jose Ruiz |
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If you have not read The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz, a classic practical guide to personal freedom, no worries – The Fifth Agreement has a chapter on each of the four agreements and goes in depth into the fifth agreement.
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Agreement #1 - Be impeccable with your word
Agreement #2 - Don’t take anything personally
Agreement #3 - Don’t make assumptions
Agreement #4 - Always do your best
Agreement #5 – Be skeptical, but learn to listen |
Each agreement builds on the previous one and each time we revisit the book there is the opportunity to go deeper in understanding the how powerful the agreements are and what becomes possible with practice.
As coaches and leaders, the more we practice these agreements, the more we can lead from Above the Line as defined in the August recommendation of “The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership”. Please reach out if you would like to discuss this book further, or any of the other books I have recommended this year. Books are a great place to get ideas and open our minds to what is possible. bari@yourmeetingplace.com |
| Meet our Board of Director Member - Ela Bijlani |
Master Financial Stability and Empower Your Business for Success!
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Financial stability is the backbone of any successful business. It enables companies to pay bills, invest in new ideas, support employees, and build trust with customers, investors, and partners.
Yet, in my 20 years in accounting, I’ve seen many entrepreneurs feel overwhelmed by finances. Overcoming this fear is crucial. With the right mentors, experts, or peer groups, leaders can turn worry into confidence and guide their businesses toward success.
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| A key step is learning to read financial statements—balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports. Far from being intimidating, they offer valuable insights that drive smarter decisions and future growth. When entrepreneurs view these tools as guides rather than obstacles, numbers become clear plans for progress. |
Strong financial foundations also come from strategy and planning: creating budgets, building emergency funds, and reviewing finances regularly. These practices help businesses avoid pitfalls, allocate resources wisely, and invest in growth opportunities.
At ICF South Florida, we’ve embraced this approach—advancing our financial strategy and building a culture that sees metrics as markers of progress. Our financial story reflects stability, collaboration, and a shared commitment to long-term success. |
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Ela Bijlani is a CPA, CPA and leadership consultant with 20 years of experience in accounting, business and leadership. She partners with companies to drive business success and develop effective leadership strategies. Ela’s approach uniquely combines business insight with coaching expertise, focusing on both the metrics that drive performance and the motivations that inspire individuals within an organization.
Ela’s credentials include an Associate Certified Coach designation through the International Coaching Federation, and she is a certified graduate of the University of Miami's Professional Coaching Program at the PCC level. |
She also holds titles of Certified Public Accountant and Chartered Global Management Accountant, further cementing her experience in the fields of finance and leadership. Additionally, Ela is a Maxwell Certified Coach, Trainer & Speaker, and Maxwell Executive Program Leader. She holds a certification in DISC behavior style methodology (Maxwell DISC) designed to improve communication, expand relationships, and create a shared understanding in organizations. She is also certified in Emotional Intelligence assessment EQi 2.0 and EQ 360, helping managers develop their emotional intelligence to improve performance.
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| ICF South Florida would like to welcome our newest member to the chapter! |
Valerie Armstrong
Linda Dolceamore
Delfina Franco
Uwe Kronewiter
Josie Mittleman
Francine Rodriguez |
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Spotlight on Current & Upcoming Outreach Initiatives |
| At ICF South Florida, we’re proud to be leading and supporting initiatives that bring the power of coaching to new audiences and communities. Here’s a look at what we’re working on right now: |
HR + Coaching
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| This October, we are launching HR + Coaching, a pilot program designed to support professionals in Human Resources and related functions. Participants will experience the transformational power of coaching through a combination of 6 individual coaching sessions, 3 group coaching sessions, and 3 workshops. The goal is to help HR professionals thrive in their roles, design their own development plans, and bring a coaching mindset into their work. |
Coaching in Education
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| We recently announced the appointment of Iryna Kurii as Program Leader for our Coaching in Education initiative. Iryna is already collaborating with a group of passionate volunteers to build partnerships with higher education institutions and design coaching pilots. These efforts aim to raise awareness of the positive impact coaching can have on students, staff, leaders, and faculty, fostering growth and resilience in the education sector. If you're interested you can reach out to Iryna at our Outreach email: icfsfoutreachcommittee@gmail.com |
Leadership + Coaching
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| Through the Leadership + Coaching program, we are exploring an exciting opportunity with Sarah Staley, Director of HR at Wycliffe Golf & Country Club (and a member of our chapter). This partnership will support a leadership development program for 12 organizational leaders and will include 3–6 group coaching sessions (delivered by a coaching pair, ideally combining experienced and learning coaches) as well as a workshop on Building a Coaching Mindset. We may prioritize volunteers who can deliver in-person sessions at Wycliffe’s beautiful Wellington, FL facilities, though virtual delivery remains a backup option. There’s also the potential to expand the initiative to include individual coaching in the future. If you're interested, please contact Gaston Betoled by mail at outreach@icfsouthflorida.com |
Looking Ahead
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| In addition to these initiatives, we have already begun preparing for our 2026 activities with established partners like WEvolution and United Way Miami. These collaborations will allow us to continue building coaching opportunities that inspire growth, transformation, and leadership across diverse communities. |
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| Join Us at ICF Converge 2025! |
ICF Converge is the premier global coaching conference, uniting passionate coaches and thought leaders from around the world. It’s the ultimate space to sharpen your skills, build meaningful connections, and join in celebrating ICF’s 30th anniversary.
📅 October 23–25, 2025
📍 San Diego, California, USA |
ICF South Florida is thrilled to offer a special group discount—20% off per person!
Let’s attend as a chapter and make the most of this amazing event together. |
Why Join ICF Converge?
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Grow Your Expertise – Access cutting-edge research, tools, and strategies to elevate your coaching.
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Build Global Connections – Network with coaches and thought leaders worldwide.
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Learn from Masters – Hear directly from MCCs, industry experts, and innovators.
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Celebrate 30 Years of ICF – Take part in a historic milestone for the coaching profession.
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👉 Learn more about ICF Converge 2025
Let’s go as a community — stronger together, and better connected! 💙 |
| | Catch up on what you have missed!
Now is the perfect time to experience the transformative insights and expert advice from Master Coaches and speakers from our past events. Dive into highlights of these powerful sessions and discover why ICF South Florida is the key to unlocking your true potential!
| | | Celebrate Success of Past Events |
Coffee & Connections Recap – September 18th
What an amazing experience at our recent Coffee & Connections online networking event! Some of our members gathered virtually on September 18th to share stories, laughter, exchange ideas, and build meaningful connections. The energy in the room was inspiring as coaches from different backgrounds and specialties came together to support and learn from one another.
These sessions are more than just networking; they are about building community. You get the chance to meet fellow coaches from nationwide and around the world, discover the unique coaching they offer, and explore new opportunities for collaboration. Please check our calendar and register for the next scheduled date at 8:30 am to 9:30 am.
Don’t miss the next one! Join us to connect, grow, and strengthen your professional circle while learning more about the incredible coaches in our chapter. |
ICF South Florida | Wellbeing Department
Celebrating Our 2025 Success |
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A year of community, wellbeing, and growth
2025 marked the launch of the Wellbeing Department, integrating the science of wellbeing and the practice of coaching to strengthen our community. Thanks to all the volunteers, members, and partners who made it possible.
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Highlights
- Launched the department with an active team of 6 members.
- Diverse programming: panels, live coaching demo, book conversation, physical wellbeing day, and financial wellbeing workshop.
- Partnerships with World Happiness Fest (WHF) and Happiness Studies Academy (HSA).
- Signature events: ICF 30th Anniversary & Global Cherish Festival, World Happiness Fest, Physical Wellbeing Day, Financial Wellbeing Workshop, Books & Wellbeing.
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2025 Metrics
- 6 events delivered (target: 5)
- Over 130 participants across all events
- 2 active partnerships (WHF & HSA)
- 6 active volunteers (target: 3)
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Lessons Learned
- Community valued warm, close spaces.
- Physical and relational wellbeing identified as priorities.
- Strong interest in financial and professional wellbeing topics.
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Looking Ahead to 2026
- Focus on Physical and Relational Wellbeing.
- Monthly activities covering emotional, intellectual, and spiritual wellbeing.
- Examples: Mystery Guest Dinners, Outdoor Adventures, Debate Nights, Art Therapy & Gratitude Circles.
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Thanks to every volunteer, member, partner, and speaker who made this year a success. Let's
continue building community and wellbeing together! |
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| ICF Southeast In-Person Forum Meeting Agenda |
ICF South Florida proudly participated in the ICF Southeast In-Person Forum in Fort Worth, TX (Sept 24–26).
ICF South Florida President Valeska Martins and VP of Outreach Gaston Betoled joined chapter leaders from across the region to explore the theme Connectedness ~ Community ~ Future of Coaching.
Together with ICF Gulf Coast President Angelica Alexander Defillo, ICF Global Regional Director Anik Clemens, and Regional Manager Angie Holleran, our leaders celebrated collaboration, shared insights, and strengthened connections that will help shape the future of coaching. |
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| ICF South Florida Presents: Core Competencies Fall Summit 2025 |
| Join us for an extraordinary 5-day virtual learning experience designed to deepen your coaching practice, strengthen your mastery of the ICF Core Competencies, and connect you with thought leaders from around the globe. |
📅 Dates: October 13–17, 2025
⏰ Time: Daily sessions - 8:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 5:30 PM ET
📍 Location: Online (via Zoom) |
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What to Expect:
- 16 Renowned Presenters bringing diverse perspectives and proven practices.
- 20+ CCEUs available to support your ICF credential renewal.
- Interactive sessions with live demonstrations, practice opportunities, and real-time feedback.
- Networking with peers and leaders in the coaching profession.
- A focus on practical application of the ICF Core Competencies in today’s coaching landscape.
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This is more than a summit—it’s a transformational journey where coaches come together to sharpen skills, expand capacity, and elevate impact. |
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MasterClass by Master Coaches
with Patricia A Risch, M.Ed., MCC
MCC Coaching Demo
October 1, 2025, 8:30 AM
| | MasterClass by Master Coaches
with Debbie Crouse, MCC
How to Find the Courage to Believe in Yourself So You, Your Clients, and Your Business Will Thrive
October 1, 2025 | 5:30 PM
| | | | Get Shift Done: Coaches Accountability Call Series
with Sophia Casey, MCC
October 7 & 21 | 1:30 PM
Happening 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the Month!
ICF South Florida Chapter (ICFSFL) and Sophia Casey, MCC and CEO of ICLI RISING coach training school, are excited to offer the Get Shift Done: Coaches Accountability Call, a biweekly power hour!
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Outreach Committee Monthly Call
Join us for the ICF South Florida Outreach Committee Monthly Meeting — open to all ICFSFL members!
October 10, 2025 | 9:00 AM
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Coach-A-Latte In-Person!
Join us for our monthly meetup of coffee, conversation, and connection with Dr. Loubna Noureddin, MCC.
📅 Friday, October 10 | 1:30 PM
📍 La Boulangerie Boul’Mich | 1549 Sunset Dr, Miami, FL
Free parking | Conveniently near US 1 & I-95
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Coaching in Education – Working Session
Help shape the future of Coaching in Education with Iryna Kurii!
Join our virtual session to co-design initiatives that empower students, leaders, and faculty.
📅 Monday, October 20 | 9:00 AM
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Fishbowl Coaching with Paulette Rao, MCC
Boost your coaching skills through practice and feedback with MCC Paulette Rao—join as a coach, client, or observer for a unique learning experience.
Thursday, October 23 | 12:00 PM ET
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1 MasterClass by Master Coaches with Patricia A Risch, M.Ed., MCC
1 MasterClass by Master Coaches with Debbie Crouse, MCC
7 Get Shift Done: Coaches Accountability Call Series
10 Outreach Committee Monthly Call
10 Coach-A-Latte with Dr. Loubna Noureddin, MCC
13 Core Competencies Summit with Jimmy Glenos, PCC
13 Core Competencies Summit with Eric Goeres, PCC
13 Core Competencies Summit with Katherina Capra, MCC & Adriana Rodriguez, MCC
14 Core Competencies Summit with Luis Miguel Gallardo, PCC
14 Core Competencies Summit with Meredith Kimmel, PCC
14 Core Competencies Summit with Marcia Reynolds, PsyD, MCC
15 Core Competencies Summit with Elias Scultori, MCC
15 Core Competencies Summit with Katya Talavera de Ward, PCC, ACTC
15 Core Competencies Summit with Elena Espinal, MCC
16 Core Competencies Summit with Fernando Celis, MCC
16 Core Competencies Summit with Prof. Jonathan Passmore
16 Core Competencies Summit with Julius Ordonez, MCC, ACTC
17 Core Competencies Summit with Colin Scotland
17 Core Competencies Summit with Sophia Casey, MCC
17 Core Competencies Summit with Nancy Hauschildt, PCC
20 Coaching in Education - Working Session
21 Get Shift Done: Coaches Accountability Call Series
23 Fishbowl Coaching with Paulette Rao, MCC
| Thank You to Our Partners and Sponsors
| Advertising and Partnership Opportunities
Want to share your story? Become a partner and share your unique program or service in all ICF South Florida's media outlets, including, email, Facebook, and Instagram. | Jobs Opportunities
Members – we now have a page on our website with jobs/work opportunities for you. When you log in to our website, you can find the link with posted opportunities.
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