The 12th SOTL Global Round Table, hosted at Tampa’s iconic Grand Cathedral, brought together trailblazing women, passionate brand leaders, cigar lounge owners, and changemakers from across the United States for one bold mission: To rethink the cigar industry from the inside out.
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Under the generous hospitality of Angela Yue, with the signature warmth of Cynthia Fuente and the organizational direction of Dr. Anastasia Psomiadi, this Round Table became living proof that leadership, vision, and togetherness can reshape tradition.
The event unfolded in two powerful parts:
Part I, coordinated by Dr. Anastasia Psomiadi, invited participants from across the country to present themselves and answer the central question:
“If you could redesign the cigar industry –from experience to branding– what would you change?”
Part II, coordinated by Temi Bush and Patricia Khalaf, opened the floor to all attendees, ensuring every voice was heard. No filters –just truth, ideas, and inspiration.
Key Voices and Powerful Messages
Angela Yue, a central voice and gracious hostess of the event, encouraged cigar lounge owners to uplift and support one another, helping to build a stronger, unified industry ecosystem.
Patricia Khalaf, founder of Casa Aficionado, emphasized the importance of educating consumers about cigar craftsmanship –honoring the hands and hearts behind every cigar, from the farm to the factory to the final smoke.
Temi Bush, founder of Serendipity Cigars and partner at Emperor’s Cut Cigars, pointed out the critical need for the cigar industry to embrace and incorporate new technologies. She highlighted how innovation –especially in marketing, customer engagement, and distribution– can elevate brand visibility and help the industry stay relevant in a rapidly evolving digital world.
Belkys Sanchez of Rocky Patel Premium Cigar Co., shared strategies for making cigar content more relatable through lifestyle storytelling, emotional rituals, community-building, and inclusive visual representation. “Frame cigar smoking as an experience, show stylish setups, create a Sense of belonging, tap into nostalgia and storytelling, use vintage visuals, old-school vibes, or tell stories of traditions (like a grandfather who passed down the love of cigars)”.
Leo Abzaradel, CEO of Platinum NOVA Cigars, inspired attendees to:
“Believe in yourself, support one another, and collaborate without fear.”
Romy Kashouty spoke passionately about the need to support the women behind the leaf, advocating for greater recognition of their work and presence in the industry
Fuad Kashouty urged the community to raise its voice in defense of cigar rights, highlighting the need to stand united against increasing regulatory pressures.
Desiree Sylver, PhD, advocated for diverse representation and female leadership, urging the industry to spotlight Black-owned brands, international voices, and to empower women through mentorship and to to spearhead female leadership initiatives, like the Sisters of the Leaf Global Movement.
Mayra “Maya” Alabi, Certified Cigar Sommelier and founder of Mayan Queen, called for a stronger branding, including investments in visually packaging, brand identity, storytelling, and digital outreach to resonate with modern audiences.
Carmen Z Rivera Aviles, owner of His and Hers Cigars Lounge, shared:
“I wouldn’t change the industry –but I would add collaboration, unity, and mentorship. Let’s honor the legacy while building the future together. We are not competition– we are a family.”
Sean “Sayon” Johnson, Host of Cigar Conversations, called for strategic unity:
“Let’s do collaboration –not competition. That’s how we elevate this lifestyle and change the game.”
Nicole Townsend, Certified Cigar Sommelier and founder of Pretty While Puff N™️, stressed the power of social media, cultural storytelling, and educational content to attract new consumers and engage the next generation.
Robin James, affectionately known as Robin Blue, owner of BlueSmokeATL, reminded attendees:
“Support is more than a word –it’s action. If someone reaches out, reach back.”
MsToya Goody (CCST/Committee Member) emphasized the need for safe spaces and educational opportunities for women in cigars, reinforcing the importance of building a strong internal community.
Monique Henderson, founder of Shade Cigars, highlighted the value of expanding cigar lounge experiences by integrating them with other spaces –such as liquor clubs, curated activities, and events –while underscoring the importance of exceptional customer service and memorable cigar experiences.
Stoney Gillespie Jr., co-founder of Chicago Cigar Week, pointed out the role of cigar weeks for elevating the cigar experience and cultivating the cigar culture
John Calley, co-founder of Tampa Cigar Week, shared his reflections on how collaboration, and support increased visibility for newcomers and women are paving the way for a new era of leadership in the cigar world.
Kevin M. Odom, co-founder of Tampa Cigar Week, spoke about our shared responsibility to grow as individuals and support one another.
Daniel Stanford, CCST owner of Travelers Delight Cigars Mobile Lounge, pointed out the importance of education and the promotion of cigar culture through collaboration.
Local women cigar lounge owners echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the power of collaboration and the importance of mentoring newcomers to the cigar community.
The SOTL Global Movement remains committed to transforming the cigar industry through education, sustainability, and leadership rooted in authenticity.
