Power Path
Interpreting movement as an essential aspect of a meaningful life, Lucia Sotres turns to fitness not just for gains, but for balance and resilience. “When I feel strong and healthy, I have the clarity to create, the energy to live fully, and the strength to give my best to others,” she shares. Exercise isn’t about chasing perfection — it’s about showing up with intention and discovering what you’re truly capable of. “I enjoy finding joy in every challenge and choosing movements that help me feel connected and alive,” she says. Her goals reflect that deeper purpose. “I’d love to complete all Seven Major Marathons and cross the finish line of an Ironman…or better yet, an Ironwoman!”
Dual StrideS
For twins Carolina & Blanca Mengotti, growing up in Key Biscayne profoundly shaped their approach to every aspect of their lives. With its vibrant mix of serenity and energy, the island naturally encouraged an active lifestyle and a strong sense of belonging. The terrain became their playground, the community their foundation. “Movement is our form of therapy — a powerful way to express ourselves, release stress, and reconnect with our bodies,” they say. For them, fitness isn’t about numbers or stats — it’s about something deeper. “Wellness goes far beyond performance metrics,” they say. “It’s about being in tune with your body, showing up, and taking consistent steps toward becoming the best version of yourself.” That philosophy continues to guide them, blending discipline with joy, strength and purpose.
Grace Unleashed
The journey of Sherin Al-Safadi from world champion kickboxer to aerialist is anything but ordinary. A Syrian-Canadian raised in Montreal, she once dominated the world’s athletic stage as part of Team Canada until a string of concussions caused her to step away from competition — and straight into the air. “I saw an ad for aerial silks and thought, ‘Easy — I’m an athlete,’” she recalls. “I was humbled fast.” That moment sparked a new chapter, one where strength met grace. Now based in Key Biscayne, she blends athleticism with artistry, finding empowerment in expression. She holds a Guinness World Record for running a blindfolded half-marathon in memory of her father; and plans to set another record in honor of her mother’s cancer battle. “This lifestyle has cultivated skills and wisdom I carry into everything I do,” she says. “Wellness doesn’t just build your body — it builds character.”
Strong Living
Originally from Buenos Aires, Maria Liguori lived in New England for more than two decades before making the move to Key Biscayne a few years ago. “I never imagined I’d live on an island, wear flip-flops year-round, throw on linen for just about any occasion, and be able to enjoy the beach every day,” she says. “I’ve come to really love this softer, slower rhythm of life.” When it comes to fitness, as a Certified Holistic Health Coach, Environmental Engineer and Founder of Your Health LLC and Co-Founder of Well To Thrive, she has made wellness a cornerstone of her life. “While I’ve crossed many finish lines — from half marathons to full marathons — my greatest athletic achievement hasn’t been a race,” she says. “It was the moment I realized I had become the kind of woman who trains not to shrink herself, but to expand her strength, confidence and longevity.”
Positive Force
A popular Sensei at the Academy of Martial Arts, Derek Duzoglou has been inducted into the Florida Black Belt Hall of Fame and holds numerous state and national championship titles. Born in New York City and raised in New Jersey, he’s been in Key Biscayne since 1996. “My father has been involved in the martial arts for 55 years, and I was basically born into it,” he says. “Our dojo used to be in the basement of our house, and it’s been an active part of my life since I was 2 years old!” Today, he enjoys sharing his wisdom and experiences with his students. “Staying active is crucial for mental, emotional and physical fortitude,” he says. “Embrace challenge for growth, and surround yourself with likeminded people who will push and motivate you to achieve your goals.”
