By Lin Green
Columnist
In 1870, city founder Henry Shelton Sanford envisioned this community as the “Gate City of South Florida,” a hub of growth, commerce, and opportunity. While Sanford did not become the literal gateway he imagined, history has a way of revealing purpose in unexpected ways. Today, Sanford and the surrounding Central Florida corridor are indeed opening gates and not just to trade and tourism, but to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and especially women in business who are transforming our region.
One such force is Coleen Otero, founder of CEO Chicks, an organization dedicated to equipping, empowering, and elevating women in business. I had the privilege of sitting down with Coleen to hear her story and the heartbeat behind this growing movement.
Her journey began in the beauty industry at just 12 years old, discovering that her gift of service could also sustain a livelihood. Through years of triumphs, challenges, and pivots (including the crash of 2008) Coleen built not only salons and businesses but also resilience. Out of those seasons came a clear vision: women need more than inspiration; they need mentorship, community, and practical tools. Thus, CEO Chicks was born.
With the bold tagline “Collaborate, Create, Dominate,” Coleen emphasizes that empowerment without education cannot last. CEO Chicks builds networks where women learn to partner instead of working in isolation, develop businesses that are scalable and generational, and sustain their growth through wellness. Their events, including the recent “I Am Well” Brunch, integrate conversations on wealth-building with emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. As Coleen says, “There is no such thing as wealth without wellness.”
What struck me most was the anointing behind her leadership. Stories from members, testimonies of breakthroughs, and even support from figures like Kris Jenner remind us that divine alignment matters as much as strategy. Coleen’s authenticity creates a space where women feel seen, heard, and celebrated without cliques, without comparison, and without limits.
For Sanford, this message could not be timelier. Our city’s comprehensive growth plans are building an economic corridor that fosters small business development and entrepreneurship. Women-owned businesses are essential to that vision. As Sanford evolves into a hub of innovation and culture, partnerships with organizations like CEO Chicks remind us that progress is not only measured in buildings and commerce but in the lives changed when women are given the tools to thrive.
To the women of Sanford and beyond: the invitation is open. Connect with CEO Chicks, explore their resources, and consider what it means to collaborate, create, and ultimately dominate in your own sphere of influence.
Stay in touch with CEO Chicks on Instagram @ceochicks or visit ColeenOtero.com for upcoming events and resources, including a free Cyber Toolkit filled with grants and business-building tools updated monthly.
Because when women rise, communities rise with them, and Sanford is ready for that future.
