Welcome to the Orlando chapter of the
National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) 

Get a seat at the table or build your own table, and make sure to include other women™

NAWBO Orlando is dedicated to fostering the economic empowerment and success of women business owners in Central Florida.
A 5-Star Award Recipient, NAWBO Orlando’s vision is to propel women entrepreneurs into economic, social, and political spheres of power worldwide. Our mission is to strengthen the wealth-creating capacity of NAWBO Orlando’s members and promote economic development; create innovative and effective changes in the business culture; build strategic alliances, coalitions, and affiliations; and transform public policy and influence opinion–makers.

Founded in 1975, NAWBO is the unified voice of more than 12 million women-owned businesses in the United States, representing the fastest-growing segment of the economy.

NAWBO is the only dues-based organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries with chapters across the country. With far-reaching clout and impact, NAWBO is a one-stop resource, propelling women business owners into greater economic, social, and political spheres of power worldwide. We have 60 chapters across the country with more than 5,000 members.

Respected with elected officials in Washington, D.C. and state capitals across the country, recognized in the media as a thought leader on women’s business issues, and joined with corporate partners and other non-profit organizations who share our mission and expand our influence, NAWBO is the country’s premier women’s business organization.

NAWBO’s many milestones and awards over the decades exemplify the rich history of success the organization and its thousands of members have enjoyed.

WOMEN MEAN BUSINESS!®

Mission

• Strengthen the wealth-creating capacity of NAWBO Orlando’s members and promote economic development;

• Create innovative and effective changes in the business culture;

• Build strategic alliances, coalitions and affiliations; and

• Transform public policy and influence opinion–makers.

vision

To propel women business owners into greater economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide.

diversity statement

NAWBO seeks full participation in the organization by all business owners who support our mission to empower women entrepreneurs, regardless of race, religion, age, sexual orientation, national origin or disability. NAWBO’s goal is to effectively represent the full diversity of the women business owner community and to expand access to leadership opportunities across the full spectrum of our membership.

karen kurta

President

Karen Kurta is the founder of Karen K Photo, a professional photography studio specializing in headshots, branding, and architectural photography for businesses and professionals across Greater Orlando. With over 25 years of experience in photography and a background in corporate marketing, Karen combines creative expertise with strategic insight to deliver images that elevate her clients’ brands. She leads with clarity, empathy, and a strong attention to detail—building trust through a seamless process and a commitment to excellence.

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ANSI FERNANDEs

Treasurer

Ansi helps everyday entrepreneurs implement systems and process in the business side of their company. Owner of Every Penny Accounting, she provides services that include bookkeeping, payroll, accounts receivables/payable support, and consulting. She is a Certified Bookkeeper by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers and is a Ramsey Solutions Master Financial Coach.

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Angie Ruff

Secretary

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nICOLE pERPILLANT

Communications Director

Nicole is a digital strategist, licensed real estate expert, and business coach with over 20 years of experience in IT, cybersecurity, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship. She is the founder of Vision and Victory and the co founder of Design Theory - two transformative platforms focused on personal growth, business development, and inclusive leadership. Nicole uses her expertise in branding, automation, and communication to support organizations in expanding their reach and impact.

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Carla Taylor

Programs Director

Carla Taylor is a dynamic leader, speaker, and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience empowering individuals and organizations to unlock their full potential. As the Programs Director, she brings a unique blend of strategic insight, creative energy, and deep expertise in leadership development, career alignment, and human connection. Carla is the author of The Career Happiness Project and co-author of the upcoming textbook Career Happiness in the Age of AI, developed in partnership with a leading AI professor to prepare professionals and students for the future of work. Currently serving as the Fractional VP of Strategic Engagement & Learning Innovation at The Revolutionary Network, Carla designs transformational learning experiences and fosters meaningful cross-sector collaborations. She is passionate about delivering high-impact, inspiring programs that support women business owners at every stage of their journey, sparking growth, connection, and community across Central Florida and beyond.

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Community Partners