Ms. Senior Florida 2024 | Ms. Violet Ryland

Violet Ryland is a beacon of servant leadership, boasting over 40 years of dedicated service in the social service arena,particularly within the Department of Children and Families.Throughout her illustrious career, Violet has been steadfast in her commitment to fostering collaborative partnerships and empowering families towards economic self-sufficiency.

With a career deeply rooted in service, Violet has been adriving force in building bridges between the Department of Children and Families and the broader South Florida community. Her strategic approach and unwavering dedication have made her a respected figure among key stakeholders.

As an adjunct professor at Miami Dade College, Violet extends her knowledge and expertise to future generations of social service professionals. A true native-born Miamian, Violet earned her stripes academically with a Master of Public Administration

degree from Florida International University. Her commitment toprofessional development is evident in her certification in the Incident Command System, further enhancing her ability to respond effectively to complex social challenges.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Violet finds joy and fulfillment in her roles as a mother and grandmother. Residing in Miramar, Florida, she cherishes the moments spent with her two daughters and grandchildren. In her leisure time, she indulges in her passions for reading, traveling, and creating lasting memories with her cherished circle of family and friends.

Violet Ryland embodies the essence of resilience, compassion, and strength. Her unwavering dedication to serving others and her steadfast commitment to nurturing strong, supportive communities make her a true inspiration. With grace and determination, she continues to make a meaningful impact, leaving a legacy of hope and empowerment for generations to come. Additionally, Violet Ryland's membership in Iota Phi Lambda Inc. adds another dimension to her impressive profile. Being part of this organization further highlights her commitment to professional and personal development, as Iota Phi Lambda is known for promoting the interests of business and professional women.

Mr. Senior Florida 2024 | Mr. Hector Ceballos

Hector Ceballos was born in the Bronx, New York, on February 8, 1961. Growing up in New York with Puerto Rican and Mexican parents, Hector experienced the vibrant Latin culture firsthand. Immersed in music, diverse cuisine, and salsa dancing, he developed a deep love and appreciation for his heritage. During high school, Hector excelled in sports, participating in football, track, and martial arts while maintaining a strong dedication to his studies. He also cultivated a passion for chess, finding joy in strategic gameplay. After a successful fifteen year career in the financial industry, Hector embarked on a new path within the arts. For six years, he performed as an actor, dancer, and comedian, notably portraying Sancho Panza in "El Quijote" for the National Theater of Performing Arts and performing as a comedian at the renowned CopaCabana in New York City. Additionally, he appeared as a background dancer in the film "Carlito's Way." Following his tenure in the entertainment industry, Hector returned to Wall Street. It was during this time that he met his beloved wife, Blanca Ceballos, and they have been married for over twenty-five years. They moved to Miami, Florida in 2005 and instantly fell in love with the beach and the rich diverse cultures of South Florida. Hector is the proud father of four children and has embraced fatherhood as a Christian. Currently, Hector dedicates his time to family, faith, health, and fitness. As a cancer and heart attack survivor, he now maintains a commitment to healthy eating and regular exercise, advocating for a lifestyle filled with good health, happiness, and laughter. He is currently in the process of becoming a wellness coach because he strongly believes in helping others achieve continued wellness goals as they transition to a new season in their lives.