Natalie Leon’s Story and Mission

I am Natalie Leon, an agent of change cultivating positive change in my community. My childhood experiences of overcoming adversity have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and sensitivity towards others. This is why I've become an advocate for myself and others, determined to empower change and make a positive impact in our world.

In 2021 and during the pandemic, my daughter Grace was born. My life partner, Francisco (Grace’s father) and I faced numerous challenges while navigating the parenting system. Ultimately, I had to leave a job I loved to ensure that Grace received the proper care she needed. This chapter in my life empowered me to create change for moms, which eventually evolved into advocating for all.

My journey to this point has not always been an easy one. When I was only fourteen, my father murdered my mother, and I had to navigate an unhealthy family system. But I refused to let that define me. In 2006, I graduated from the University of Miami and began my career at a local PR agency. I later joined The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, where I had the opportunity to work with the local business community.

THE BIRTH OF MY AWARD-WINNING CAREER

During the 2009 economic crisis, I recognized an opportunity and launched my first startup, NAT-PR, INC., a boutique Public Relations & Events Management firm that offered affordable services to small businesses. One of my biggest accomplishments during that time was NAT-PR's signature event, Get Connected, which had over 500 attendees and provided all South Florida professionals a platform to build relationships. I was even awarded "Publicist/PR Executive of the Year" by BizBash in 2011.

But the communications industry changed with the rise of digital media, and I eventually had to close NAT-PR, INC. I returned to the traditional workplace, but my health suffered due to unhealthy work environments (I let stress get the best of me). That's when I decided to take a blogging course with Nikki Novo and started blogging with the help of wine in 2015.

Once again, I recognized an opportunity, as women consumers dominate the wine industry. I created my personal brand, Wine With Nat, and Women Who Wine, a community of women who empowered meaningful connections and conversations through wine. Women Who Wine quickly took off, and I was even featured on CBS Miami and awarded "Miami Women Who Rock 2016" and "Best Local Blogger 2016" by South Florida Bloggers. I’ll eventually circle back to Wine With Nat as I no longer drink.

MY REBIRTH AND SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION

In 2019, I experienced more life-changing events: I divorced a good man, reunited with estranged family members, and was divinely guided to work with seniors just a few months before the Covid-19 pandemic. While working at a senior living community, I identified ways in which technology could enhance the quality of life and care for seniors. This inspired me to create the idea for SAL™, a senior-friendly application which is currently in its pilot phase.

After coming up with the idea for SAL™, I became pregnant with my daughter. Following her birth, I encountered numerous challenges while navigating parenthood in America, especially during the pandemic. Not only did I lose my stable job, but I also had to adjust to the demands of motherhood during unprecedented times. To reinvent my career and generate income, I resumed my entrepreneurial role and began offering spiritual and startup advising services.

In August 2022, I started advocating for prioritizing moms and children in America, which evolved into advocating for all. In January 2023, I joined the Miami-Dade County family in a marketing communications role, allowing me to advocate for my community in a larger capacity. I believe my story is now pivoting towards its most significant moment.