Name: Ghada Skaff
LT Class Year: 2020
Company Name: Lieser Skaff, PLLC
Stacy and Laure Frost split the morning between two coffee events on Leap Day. Stacy hosted a table at Cup of Compassion, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay’s annual fundraising event (Clara Reynolds, LT ’99, is the Crisis Center's President and CEO). Ghada and Laura met at our LTA Conversations with Coffee at C.U.P. - Coffee Uniting People -Embarc Collective location. They enjoyed catching up since our outreach experience over four years ago. Jeff Jones, founder of C.U.P., promised the group we all would leave the program feeling better than when we arrived…he did not disappoint. If asked, C.U.P. is Laura’s new favorite place to meet friends/colleagues. Here’s more from Ghada….
1. Tell us, why LTA?
First off, you get to connect with over 550 top-notch leaders from all sorts of fields across Tampa Bay. It's like having a super diverse network of mentors and collaborators at your fingertips.
And the camaraderie - it's like nothing else. We've all been through the Leadership Tampa program together, so there's this instant bond and support system.
Plus, being part of LTA gives you the inside scoop on what's happening in Tampa Bay's industries. You get these behind-the-scenes insights that really help you understand the big picture.
But it's not just about knowledge - it's about making a real impact. Through LTA, you have ongoing opportunities to get involved in projects and initiatives that are shaping the future of our community.
And, let's not forget about all the professional development opportunities. Workshops, seminars, networking events, it's all geared towards helping you grow as a leader.
Being part of LTA isn't just about joining a group - it's about becoming part of a community that's making a real impact in our city.
2. For you, what separates LTA from other business leadership programs?
Definitely the tight-knit community we have. It's like being part of this big, supportive family where everyone's got your back.
You're not just making connections here; you're building lasting relationships with some of the most influential folks in Tampa Bay.
And then there's the whole shared experience thing. Going through the Leadership Tampa program together creates a bond and an incredible sense of camaraderie.
But what really stands out to me is the ongoing impact we have in the community. It's not just about what we learn during the program; it's about how we take that knowledge and use it to make a difference in Tampa Bay.
3. Describe a time when the LTA experience impacted your life or career?
During my time in Leadership Tampa, I experienced a profound moment of support and solidarity from my classmates that deeply impacted my life. While I was battling breast cancer, my Leadership Tampa classmates came together and raised funds for breast cancer awareness and research. Their compassion and generosity not only provided me with much-needed emotional support during a challenging time but also reinforced the importance of community and empathy in leadership. This experience taught me the true value of teamwork, resilience, and the power of collective action in making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. It's a memory I will always hold close to my heart and a testament to the extraordinary bonds forged through the Leadership Tampa program.
4. What is a LTA benefit you wish everyone knew about?
Many may not realize that the dues paid by Leadership Tampa Alumni members contribute to the Leadership Tampa program scholarships. This financial support ensures the continued success and accessibility of the program, allowing future leaders to benefit from its invaluable experiences and resources.
5. Describe how the leadership journey will continue to shape you?
The leadership journey has ingrained in me a commitment to continuous growth and a deep sense of responsibility towards fostering positive change in our community. I believe that as leaders, it's our duty to use our voices and take action when we see opportunities for improvement. Moving forward, I'm dedicated to leveraging my skills and influence to address issues and drive meaningful impact, ensuring a better future for all.
Fun Facts About You/Local Knowledge:
Latest movie, book, streaming series or a combination?
- Latest Movie – Mean Girls (2024 Musical). If you are wondering, it doesn’t touch the original!
- Latest Book – Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. I’m still weeping.
- Streaming Series – True Detective, Night Country. I love the past seasons, but I really did not get this one, like at all.
Favorite spot to meet friends/colleagues for coffee, lunch or happy hour-----
- Psomi! It’s delicious and within walking distance from my office!
For staycation in Tampa Bay, you like to……
- Go to the beach. The Sandpearl or the Don Cesar are such a treat.
When out-of-town guests are visiting, you plan….
Interesting excursions like visiting Fairgrounds St. Pete or The Dali Museum. We also love sharing the tastes of Tampa, whether it’s visiting La Segunda for the best Cuban sandwich in town or grabbing a Tampa Girl empanada at Empamamas, and of course the Harry Waugh Dessert Room at Bern’s.
Any hidden treasures/recent discoveries you’d like to share?!
The Gasparilla Music Festival, which just celebrated 13 years this past February and the Fairgrounds St. Pete are two favorites. The Fairgrounds St. Pete is an indoor explorable museum of playful multi-sensory immersive art exhibits & technology celebrating weird, wacky, wonderful Florida!
Any upcoming initiatives/passion projects we need to know about?
Is surviving a crazy, busy life running a law firm and raising three kids considered an initiative or passion project? Joking aside – I’m incredibly excited about growing my law firm, Lieser Skaff. Our focus is on implementing strategic expansion efforts that align with our firm's core values and strengths. This includes leveraging emerging technologies to streamline processes, enhancing our client service offerings through personalized solutions, and investing in talent development to ensure we have the best legal minds driving our growth. Ultimately, our goal is to deepen our impact within the legal community while continuing to provide exceptional service and value to our clients.