May is all about celebrating the incredible moms in the 305 who make life a little sweeter. Join us as we honor “Buzz-Worthy Local Moms” all month long — each week, we’ll spotlight a Miami mom who has us absolutely buzzing! We are proud to shine the spotlight on Dwanita Woodward – a local leader, mother of three, and passionate advocate for young girls through her nonprofit, Leading With Love. Her heart for service, dedication to motherhood, and unwavering strength are as bright as the Miami sun.
Dwanita Woodward is the inspiring founder and CEO of Leading With Love, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young girls through mentorship, leadership development, and cultural immersion — and she’s also a proud mom of three energetic boys. A Miami native, Dwanita is deeply rooted in her hometown’s rich diversity and vibrant spirit, sharing those same values of resilience and connection with her children. Whether she’s guiding her sons or mentoring young women in her community, Dwanita leads with grace, strength, and a whole lot of love, reminding us that motherhood is as much about growth as it is about giving.
What do you love about being a mom in Miami?
Being a mom in Miami is incredibly special because this city is where my story began. Growing up here taught me the value of community, resilience, and embracing diverse cultures. Now, as a mom, I get to share those same lessons with my children. I love exploring the vibrant communities and soaking up the sun on our beautiful beaches. Miami is more than just where we live; it’s where we grow, learn, and connect with people from all walks of life. And over the years, I’ve made friends who come from such beautifully diverse backgrounds, and together, they form a dynamic collection of stories and experiences like a masterpiece that continues to shape and inspire me as a mom and as a leader. Their unique perspectives not only make me appreciate the beauty of this city even more but also inspire me to keep building a community rooted in love.
What’s a piece of advice or a mantra that keeps you going on tough days?
On tough days, I remind myself of the legacy I am building for my family. When things feel difficult or progress seems invisible, I hold onto the belief that every step forward, no matter how small, is still a step in the right direction. It’s a powerful way to stay grounded and stay connected to my purpose for both my children and the young girls I mentor. If I give up, what kind of example would I be setting for them? My goal is to make them understand that life isn’t always easy, but true growth comes from learning through challenges and expressing gratitude for the things that are going well and the blessings we have.
What’s one thing about motherhood that surprised you the most?
What surprised me the most about motherhood is how much my kids teach me. Each of them has such a unique personality, style, and way of looking at the world, and I love discovering new ways to support them as they grow and learn. They remind me daily that learning is a two-way street. I’m not just raising them; they’re also helping me grow as a mom, a wife, and a leader.
