Sparkle Foundation

Executive Director

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Samantha Tradelius is a seasoned commercial property insurance broker with an impressive 25 years of industry expertise. She leverages this wealth of experience to provide invaluable risk management support to women-owned businesses. Currently holding the esteemed position of Vice President of Operations at LyteSpeed Learning, Samantha is deeply passionate about insurance education for agents and brokers throughout California. This role is particularly significant to her, as it allows her to share her real-life insights gained from years of owning her own insurance agencies.

Beyond her thriving career in insurance, Samantha Tradelius is the visionary founder of The Sparkle Foundation, a distinguished non-profit organization committed to assisting single mothers in the Bay Area, Los Angeles, and Sacramento. Her unwavering mission to uplift and empower women is evident in every endeavor she undertakes. Through The Sparkle Foundation and its invaluable resource arm, SparkleBiz, Samantha extends financial aid to support enrichment programs, offers microloans to female-owned small businesses, and connects women with a vast, influential network. Since its inception in 2016, The Sparkle Foundation has raised a remarkable sum of over $2 million, with every dollar reinvested directly into the community.

In 2021, Samantha unveiled S. By Samantha Inc., a dynamic consulting firm dedicated to amplifying the voices of real-life women and advancing their careers. She co-hosts the popular InspiHER’d podcast, curates a monthly collection featuring female-founded brands, and authored an inspiring book titled "Impact: Stories of Change Makers, Creators, and Everyday Women Doing Extraordinary Work."

When Samantha Tradelius isn't making waves in the insurance industry or celebrating the achievements of women, she's raising two remarkable daughters and tirelessly working to make a positive impact in the world every day. Her life is a testament to living with purpose and passion. To keep up with her latest ventures and contributions, visit SamanthaTradelius.com.

Director of Enrichment

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Stacey C. Fleece, CFA, is a Regional Manager with Pinnacle Home Loans. Stacey proudly has 15 years’ experience in residential finance with expertise in territory management, business development, strategic planning, and business mentoring.

Prior to her tenure in lending, Stacey was also a recognized leader in the investment industry where she worked at several Bay Area based hedge funds in both trading and research, ultimately opening her own fund as General Partner. She is co-founder of the women’s networking group, SKIRT, co-authored SKIRTWorking, How To Network Using SKIRT, and is an expert on coaching professionals on building their business through relationship networking.

Stacey earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Southern California and a master’s degree from the University of San Francisco. In addition to her work as a board member at Sparkle Foundation, she is a 25+ year member and past president of The Junior League of San Francisco, former board member for the San Francisco Symphony League, and has served as chair for various non-profit fundraisers throughout the Bay Area. She currently resides in Mill Valley (Marin County) with her two children.

Director of Finance

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Tracy Teale, CPA, is an Audit Partner with RINA and is the head of the Firm’s San Francisco office. Tracy joined RINA in 1999 and serves as the Managing Director of RINA’s Not-For-Profit Practice Group. Prior to joining the Firm, Tracy was the CFO of a not-for-profit organization, and the CFO of a personnel firm. With more than 20 years of public accounting experience, and over 10 years of private industry experience, Tracy is very knowledgeable in accounting issues facing small to medium sized companies. Tracy specializes in providing tax, audit, and attest services to not-for-profit organizations, for-profit businesses, partnerships, S corporations, private foundations, and colleges. She also has extensive experience designing and implementing processes and systems.

By applying a customized approach to each engagement, Tracy helps business owners grow their businesses, and reach the next level of success. She works closely with clients to help them adjust their processes during high growth periods and to establish or modify their accounting systems. Tracy is passionate about working with not-for-profit organizations, and she is adept at implementing and updating online accounting systems. She also has significant experience working with real estate partnerships and REITS in connection with the audits of real estate properties and developments. Tracy works with companies in a variety of industries, including manufacturing and distribution, information services, and technology.

Tracy serves as Treasurer of the Financial Women of San Francisco, Director of Finance for Sparkle Foundation, Vice President for Contra Costa Child Care Council, Board member and audit committee chair of Girls Scouts of Northern California and Audit Committee Member for the Diablo Regional Arts Association. In addition to being involved in several nonprofit organizations, Tracy works with youth through the Contra Costa County 4H program.

Director of Volunteers

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Jana Mannina is the Co-Founder of Elite Mortgage Solutions, Speaking of Money, and First Responders & Finance. Jana and her team are consistently top producing mortgage loan officers, serving families predominantly in Marin and Sonoma Counties. She is an industry leader in personal financial education, writer, and regular contributor to various media outlets. She believes financial education can lead to personal and generational wealth no matter where one begins their financial journey, and focuses a great deal of time and attention to at risk youth and their families as well as First Responders and their families.

Jana loves immersing herself in, and talking about all things money, and anything about online marketing, social media strategy, entrepreneurship, personal growth, and leadership. She’s passionate about service to both her clients, and her community, and is actively involved in several local programs such Sparkle Foundation, Save A Warrior, coaching youth sports, and loves bridging the divide between First Responders and the communities they serve through exposure, education and access. This year, Speaking of Money will launch as both a book and a podcast featuring topics on financial literacy and education meant to guide people towards attaining a level of personal wealth that’s comfortable for them. In addition, there are several coaching programs running via Speaking of Money at any given time for couples, teens, and individuals looking to get a better handle on their finances. Jana is also a regular financial educator at police academies throughout the country.

As you may have guessed, Jana is part of a First Responder family and is dedicated to serving that community. She is the wife of a San Francisco Police Captain, and Mama to three awesome children. In her spare time, you will probably find her indulging in her guilty pleasure- frequenting an amazing day spa. She’s also borderline obsessed with great hotels, travelling, brightly colored and/or strappy heels, yoga, laughing hysterically with her girlfriends, a great dance party, opportunities to karaoke and freestyle rap, sparkly things, the outdoors, crafting, and spending time with her family and friends engaged in any fun shenanigan.

Director of Chapter Growth

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Rachel Larsen thrives on helping others, event coordination, and organization. She spent many years working in television production. Her start began on early reality shows working in the field, getting a feel for positions such as release coordinator and production coordinator. After a few years in those positions, she transitioned to the accounting department where she worked for television games shows “Fear Factor,” “Deal or No Deal,” and “Wipeout.” Starting as an accounting clerk she worked her way up to assistant accountant.

After many years in television she made the move from Los Angeles to Sacramento where the opportunities in reality television weren’t as plentiful. At this time she worked in healthcare and started a family. As she continues to raise two smart girls she is enthusiastic about starting new endeavors.

Through her work with Sparkle Foundation she is able to learn from others and gain new skills. This has allowed her to explore avenues in event planning, fundraising, and community outreach. All these skills add to what she brings to the table in any project she takes on.

Director of Technology

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Josh Demers is a Sales Operations Program Manager at Microsoft, working with a team focused on Operational Excellence and Sales Enablement. His history is rich in technology and retail, spanning over 15 years, leading highly collaborative, strategic, cross-functional customer centric teams across brands families globally know and love. Josh leads with passion and the end experience is at the center of his work, both personally and professionally.

A Pacific Northwest Native, Josh and his husband moved to California in 2017 and found the Sparkle Foundation through social media in a personal outreach campaign. Growing up in a single mother household, he quickly saw the positive impact the Sparkle Foundation had on the community and began to volunteer. Over time he became more involved behind the scenes and 2023 has offered an opportunity to step forward into a leadership role within the organization. Josh will be joining Sparkle as Director of Technology and Infrastructure.

Director of Community Outreach

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Brandi Aguilar is currently an Investigator with The Solano County District Attorney's Office. Brandi has been with The Solano County District Attorney's Office for almost 2 years and has been in law enforcement 18.5 years. Prior to working for the District Attorney’s Office, Brandi was a Deputy Sheriff with The Solano County Sheriff's Office where she worked numerous positions while in the Sheriff's Office. Brandi was a Correctional Officer, Correctional K9 Officer, Deputy Sheriff, Bailiff, Vallejo/Benicia Resident Deputy, Crisis Negotiator, and Defensive Tactics Instructor.

Over the last 7 years, Brandi has worked closely with The Sparkle Foundation. Brandi had given out over 500 backpacks filled with school supplies to children in the Vallejo Community as well as been able to give the gift of Christmas to over 50 single mothers and children. In October of 2022, Brandi made it official and became a member of The Sparkle Foundation Board as a Community Outreach Specialist.

Director of Operations

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Meet Lisa Fuentes, a dynamic and accomplished career woman thriving in the fast-paced footwear industry. Born and raised with a passion for business, Lisa's journey has been a testament to resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence.

Lisa's career in the wholesale footwear industry began over a decade ago when she joined a leading footwear company committed to inspiring people to feel great... feet first. Starting from an entry-level position, she quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating an innate ability to analyze market trends, streamline operations, and foster strategic partnerships. As a Sr. Dir of Sales Operations, Lisa oversees critical aspects of the business, including driving sales effectiveness, optimizing processes, and achieving operational excellence. Her keen analytical mind, coupled with a deep understanding of market dynamics, has consistently contributed to the company's growth and profitability.

As a single mother, Lisa's story takes on an additional layer of inspiration. Balancing the demands of a high-profile career with the responsibilities of raising two daughters, she has exemplified the strength, determination, and adaptability required to succeed in both professional and personal spheres. Life as a single mother has brought its unique set of challenges, but it has also been a source of inspiration and resilience. Lisa's story is a testament to the idea that a successful career and a fulfilling personal life are not mutually exclusive.

Her ability to navigate the complex landscape of the wholesale footwear industry while embracing the joys and challenges of motherhood reflects a multifaceted, empowered woman who continues to break barriers and redefine success on her terms.

Jr Sparkle

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Bardot is currently a 7th grader at Good Shepherd Lutheran Middle School. Sparkle is in her blood; it is who she is. Currently she is managing the Sparkle inbox and phone messages.

Jr. Sparkle

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Sophie Dempsey is currently a senior at San Marin High School and involves herself in the Biotechnology Program as well as being Sports editor of the Pony Express Newspaper. Beyond her classes, she plays for San Marin’s basketball and flag football team and works as a private surf instructor.

Sophie's deep commitment to community service is driven by a desire to make a positive impact in her community. Guided by her mother's values, she has dedicated multiple years to volunteering with Sparkle, showcasing her belief in giving back.

In the fall of 2023, she was offered the role of junior board member at Sparkle. This opportunity gives her an immersive experience into the foundation's operations, enabling her to contribute her skills and insights to various aspects of the organization.

Team Lead LOS angeles

Director of Team Management | PHX

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Angeles Klein is a Senior Manager with over 21 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Her expertise lies in strategic planning, team management, and operational excellence.

In addition to her professional achievements, she is a devoted single mother and understands firsthand the unique challenges faced by single moms. Motivated by her own experiences, she founded "Single Mamas Better Together" an organization dedicated to empowering single mothers in Phoenix, AZ and Denver, CO. Through this platform, she fosters a sense of community, providing a safe space for single moms to connect, share resources, and offer emotional support.

Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Arizona State University which provided a strong foundation to scientific principles and critical thinking.

She finds extreme joy in spending quality time with her two beautiful daughters. With her dedication, leadership skills, and personal experiences as a single mother, she continues to make strides to make a significant impact in both her professional and personal life.

Fundraising Lead

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Katrina is a dedicated professional with a Master's in Business Administration and 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Currently employed at Ayawaska, she also manages bookkeeping, accounting, and taxes for two other firms, showcasing her versatility and expertise in financial management.

Beyond her professional commitments, Katrina's philanthropic spirit shines through her extensive involvement with the International Order of Rainbow for Girls for a decade, including her role on the executive committee in 2004. Since 2019, she has been actively contributing to the Sparkle Foundation, driven by her strong belief in giving back to the community.

Katrina's commitment to community service was further exemplified in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she and her mother made over 1,000 masks for distribution within their local community. Additionally, during the fires, they prepared and distributed meals to first responders and displaced residents, showcasing their selflessness and compassion.

Katrina's story is one of leadership, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact on the world around her.

Jr. Sparkle

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Luci Fuentes is currently a sophomore at San Marin High School. She is a part of the Biotechnology Pathway within the S.T.E.M. program. She is a dedicated and hardworking person. Luci plays JV softball for the San Marin Mustangs.

She was accepted as a junior board member, in the beginning of 2025. Which will give her the open opportunity to see the world through a whole new window. She is committed, and excited to volunteer, and help the sparkle community as much as possible.