HONORING LEIA PEREZ AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

HONORING LEIA PEREZ AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 35 (Friday, February 21, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 35 (Friday, February 21, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E148] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING LEIA PEREZ AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Friday, February 21, 2025 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, Leia Perez, celebrated for her couture cake designs, has achieved widespread recognition for her exceptional craftsmanship through her award-winning bakery, Candyland Designs. Her work has been featured in prominent magazines, and she has made several television appearances regarding her work. Leia's dedication to excellence has earned her numerous prestigious accolades, including an NAACP award and the Military Order of the Purple Heart award, recognizing her profound commitment to philanthropy and community impact. Holding a B.S. in Business Management & Accounting from Case Western Reserve University, Leia actively contributes her expertise by serving on the executive boards of several nonprofit organizations. Her unwavering dedication to giving back is reflected in her partnerships with Make-A-Wish bakers, the Osceola NAACP, the Kissimmee Main Street Program, Team Kareem Memorial Foundation, Kiss Kornucopia's Community Shared Agriculture program, and the Black Empowerment Community Council. She also consistently donates a portion of her profits to No Kid Hungry, ensuring her impact extends far beyond her business. Leia's passion for philanthropy goes beyond financial contributions--she strives to create joy and lasting memories. As the founder of the Wedding Wish by Candyland Designs Foundation, she grants dream weddings and provides mental health support to couples facing life-altering challenges. Through initiatives like free Wellness Workshops, offering yoga, meditation, and art therapy, Leia empowers her community by promoting self-care and connection. Her heartfelt mission is to provide hope, joy, and support to those in need--work that she holds closest to her heart. ____________________