Led by Students, Brunchin’ for Breakthroughs Raises Nearly $145K and Engages 50 Young Leaders.

The THesis Hotel in Coral Gables came alive on March 15, 2026, as it hosted the Second Annual Brunchin’ for Breakthroughs – an interactive, student-led brunch experience filled with creativity and purpose. The event raised nearly $145,000, supporting 29 Scholars through a full year of Breakthrough’s transformational programming.

Envisioned by student leader Giuliana Reynolds, Class of 2028 at Palmer Trinity School, Brunchin’ for Breakthroughs is a powerful demonstration of what happens when young people are given the opportunity to lead.

Designed as a platform for real-world learning, the experience continues to grow in impact, blending culinary arts, entrepreneurship, and performance. It reflects Breakthrough Miami’s commitment to empowering students to create and seize opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.

At the heart of this year’s experience was the debut of the Young Entrepreneurs Market, where Breakthrough Scholars and alumni showcased their ventures with remarkable professionalism and creativity. Featured student businesses included handcrafted crochet stuffed toys, custom scents, film mosaics, curated vintage wear, 3D printed designs, baked goods, charms, accessories, and more. Guests explored a vibrant marketplace, connecting with Scholars and alumni, gaining inspiration from their stories, supporting their ventures, and offering advice and mentorship, amplifying the event’s impact.

The program also featured a standout performance by Scholar and Teaching Fellow alumna Gricelda Ramos, alongside her partner Gaston Adanto, whose lyrical performance captivated guests and added a powerful artistic dimension to the afternoon. Organized by Amparo Torres-Platt, Class of 2026, Gulliver Prep, the musical program also included a performance by Gabriela Celic, vocalist, Class of 2026, at Gulliver Prep, and the Gulliver Prep Orchestra.

Throughout the experience, students were fully embedded in every aspect of the day. Breakthrough Scholars collaborated with THesis Hotel’s executive culinary team to help craft an exquisite, globally inspired brunch. Students from Breakthrough Miami’s host site school communities, including Palmer Trinity School, Belen Jesuit Preparatory, Gulliver Prep, Our Lady of Lourdes Academy, Ransom Everglades, and Riviera Prep, welcomed and hosted guests, supported service, assisted young entrepreneurs, and took the stage for orchestra and vocal performances. Their presence defined the event, demonstrating leadership, teamwork, and pride at every turn.

This impactful event was made possible through the generous support and leadership of THesis Hotel founders Daniella and Brent Reynolds and the Nolan Reynolds International team. We also extend our appreciation to Director of Culinary Operations Wayne Eldred, Executive Chef Peiyuan Nung, Managing Director Vikash Maharaj, and Director of Restaurants and Bars Massimiliano Giua for bringing the culinary experience to life.

We are especially grateful to our Visionary Sponsors, John Chidsey and Jeffrey & Tina Miller; our Innovation Sponsors, Citadel and Tricap Realty; and our Community Champion Sponsor, Amerant Bank. We also celebrate and extend sincere thanks to our inaugural Young Entrepreneur Sponsors, including Boyne Capital, LaBella Associates, Greenberg Traurig, The Jills Zeder Group, Kaufman Rossin, Blue Ivy, Gensler, Redwheel, Rick Rodriguez Piña, Coral Gables Community Foundation, MYOC Design, Nolan Family Foundation, and Bass Law, whose investment in our students helped bring the Young Entrepreneurs Market to life.

Funds raised will directly support Breakthrough Miami’s tuition-free, eight-year program, which serves more than 1,800 Scholars from over 320 different schools across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. Through its students-teaching-students model, Breakthrough delivers rigorous academic enrichment and leadership development while fostering a vibrant, supportive community where students learn, thrive, and grow. ♦