LISSETTE CALDERON

CEO & FOUNDER, NEOLOGY DEVELOPMENT GROUP, MIAMI

Neology Development Group is a residential and commercial real estate firm that specializes in transforming undervalued communities in Miami’s “urban core” into sought-after neighborhoods. The company employs nearly 40 and has a real estate portfolio exceeding $2 billion. Calderon broke ground on her first project, Neo Lofts, a high-rise condo building on the banks of the Miami River, when she was just 28. Her latest project, the 323-unit Julia Residences in Allapattah, pays homage to Julia Tuttle, the founder of Miami. “I have built the longest-running female-founded development company in Miami,” she says.

EDUCATION: University of Pennsylvania (BS)

FIRST JOB: I began my career as an investment banker in New York, where I gained a deep understanding of capital markets, deal structuring and long-term asset value creation, while also developing a strong ability to manage complex projects.

DREAM ALTERNATE CAREER: I would become a Condé Nast Traveler travel/spa writer, combining my deep appreciation for immersive travel and cultural discovery with storytelling. Alternatively, I would pursue a childhood career goal of becoming a high school teacher or professor, using my knowledge to inspire future generations to explore careers they are passionate about.