SOTL Global Movement

Home
United States
Phoenix, AZ
SOTL Global Movement

A global organization since 2017, advancing women’s leadership in the cigar industry through structured mentorship, education, & international visibility.

We are now in a new era of women-led collaboration across industries, shaping culture with purpose. SOTL GLOBAL MOVEMENT ( SGM)
During SOTL Greece’s Initiative, a Global MOVEMENT was born; this movement aims to unite women in order to specify and implement the principles and the ways that women stand in the cigar world. SOTL GLOBAL MOVEMENT’s vision is to sculpt a better world, free from stere

otypes, where women’ s position shall be established in a base of equality. SOTL GLOBAL MOVEMENT’s mission is to introduce women to the cigar world, to inspire and lead them to extraversion, to empower them to raise their voices, to motivate them to create cigar communities, and in collaboration with men, to develop a better environment for aficionadas and aficionados. SOTL GLOBAL MOVEMENT Advisory Board
The Advisory Board advises, guides, and supports the mission of SOTL GLOBAL MOVEMENT (SGM). It’s main purpose is to advise on the direction and strategy of the SGM, and by generating and giving feedback on certain proposals for development. The Advisory board is a volunteer group, formed to contribute to the spread of the vision of SGM and assist on implementing the principles of SOTL Memorandum of Understanding into the cigar industry. The advisory board shall bring forward for consideration all interesting topics brought to table by the SOTL committees and shall provide non – binding but informed guidance on every issue that may arise, serving the goals of SGM as a tremendous ally. SOTL GLOBAL MOVEMENT committees
SOTL committees are responsible for giving direction on issues regarding the women’ status in the cigar world. Their role is to guide SOTL Global Movement (SGM) strategies’ in their particular arena and contribute to shaping the content for SGM activities. Each member of SGM committees is expected to actively participate in the work of the committee, provide thoughtful input to committee deliberations, and focus on the best interests of the SGM and committee goals rather than on personal interests.

06/01/2026

Presenting Melissa Jolly
Cofounder of Elements Cigar Lounge and SOTL Cultural Host
In partnership with Humo Latino Global

“How did your military service prepare you for leadership?”

Serving as a U.S. Air Force jet engine mechanic taught me precision, accountability, and composure under pressure. When you’re responsible for equipment that protects lives, there is no room for ego or shortcuts. That experience built my discipline and attention to detail.

As a Mental Health Technician, I learned something even more powerful — emotional intelligence. I saw firsthand how trauma, stress, and service impact people. I learned how to listen, how to advocate, and how to lead with empathy. The military gave me technical strength and emotional depth. Leadership, to me, is the balance of both.

05/31/2026

🎓 Education. Mentorship. Leadership.

At Sisters of the Leaf Global Movement, we believe leadership begins with education.

Today, we proudly celebrate Latonia Carter, SGM DMV Cultural Ambassador, on earning her Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist (CCST) designation.

This achievement reflects her dedication to continuous learning, professional growth, and excellence within the premium cigar industry.

Through the SGM Maestro School of Cigar Sommeliers, our mentorship initiatives, and educational partnerships, we continue to create pathways that empower individuals to become knowledgeable leaders, advocates, and mentors within cigar culture worldwide.

Latonia's accomplishment is a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and perseverance. Every certification earned strengthens not only the individual but also our collective mission to elevate knowledge, leadership, and professionalism throughout our community.

Congratulations, Latonia, on this well-deserved achievement. We look forward to witnessing your continued growth and leadership journey.
Learn more about the SGM Maestro School:
https://www.sotlglobalmovement.com/sgmmaestroschoolofci**rsommeliers⁠

Leadership. Culture. Impact.

05/28/2026

SOTL Global Movement continues to build through leadership, structure, and cultural responsibility.
True leadership is not based on visibility alone. It is built through accountability, consistency, guidance, and the responsibility of helping protect and elevate cigar culture globally.
Education remains a core part of the movement — strengthening knowledge, professionalism, and alignment throughout our growing international community, including our Cultural Ambassadors and certified Women-Friendly destinations.
Women-Friendly is not a trend.
It is a standard.
Leadership. Culture. Impact.

05/23/2026

Shoushana Speaks
Elements Cigar Lounge

05/21/2026

"Black Leaf Cigar & Wine Lounge
is a Women-Friendly Cigar Destination"

The SOTL Global Movement certified Black Leaf Cigar & Wine Lounge as a Women-Friendly Cigar Destination during a ceremony held at the lounge in St. Petersburg, Florida.

The event was organized by owner Christian Pryor-Hurst in collaboration with SOTL Cultural Ambassador Ayo Michelle. The certification recognizes Black Leaf under SOTL’s global standards for hospitality, inclusion, culture, and community.

The evening brought together cigar enthusiasts, professionals, and local community members. The program also featured a live performance by R. Anthony & Soulchemy. R. Anthony was recently featured on NBC’s The Voice.

Black Leaf Cigar & Wine Lounge was recognized for its welcoming environment, customer service, premium cigar and wine selection, and role as a community gathering space.

Dr. Anastasia Psomiadi
Founder & President, SOTL Global Movement

“This certification is not symbolic — it is operational. It reflects how culture is built through consistency, hospitality, leadership, and human connection. Through SOTL, we are strengthening environments where women feel respected, welcomed, and visible while also elevating the standards of the global cigar community.”

Ayo Michelle
SOTL Cultural Ambassador

“I am thrilled to announce the successful certification of Black Leaf Wine & Cigar Lounge. The lounge stands out for its aesthetics, customer service, premium ci**rs, fine wines, and strong connection with the local community.

The support received during the event showed the positive impact Black Leaf has created as a place for connection, culture, and shared experiences.”

Christian Pryor-Hurst
Owner, Black Leaf Cigar & Wine Lounge

“We are honored that Black Leaf Cigar & Wine Lounge has been certified as a Women-Friendly Lounge. This recognition reflects our commitment to creating a welcoming and respectful space for women within cigar culture.

We appreciate Ambassador Ayo Michelle and the SOTL Global Movement for this recognition. We look forward to continuing to build experiences that bring people together and support the community.”

05/20/2026

✨Meet our SOTL Cultural Host Dee Thomas ✨

She is a higher education and business professional with leadership experience in finance, admissions, student support, and organizational engagement. She serves as Director of Finance and Admissions at American Intercontinental University, where she works closely with students and institutional leadership to support access, growth, and professional development.

She is currently completing her MBA with a concentration in Project Management and is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. Her leadership is grounded in resilience, service, integrity, and empowerment, with a strong focus on helping others build confidence, recognize their value, and move toward meaningful personal and professional goals.

2. Background / Education
MBA Candidate in Project Management | Finance | Business Administration & Leadership | President’s List Scholar
3. Current Professional Role
Director of Finance and Admissions at (AIU) | Entrepreneur | Community Leader
4. What do you carry on your shoulders when you walk into a room?
I carry a Million Dollar Smile, authenticity, leadership, resilience, compassion, and the ability to make people feel seen, motivated, and safe.
5. What do you love most about your place (city or country)?
I love the diversity, culture, relationship building, ambition, and sense of connection Atlanta brings to people from all backgrounds.

6. Describe the ideal picture of cigar culture in your city or country.
ONE sentence
A welcoming environment where culture, professionalism, networking, respect, and genuine. Like Family
7. Why does this cultural leadership role matter to you personally?
This role allows me to inspire, connect, empower others, and create meaningful spaces where people feel valued and supported.

05/18/2026

The SOTL Global Movement proudly recognizes another important milestone in the continued expansion of Women Friendly culture and leadership within the cigar industry.
At The Rat Pack Martini & Cigar Lounge, Nicole Townsend formally presented the Women Friendly Cigar Destination Certification to GiGi Zereli and Donnie Zereli, representing the standards, values, and cultural responsibility that continue to define the movement.
The evening reflected what Women Friendly represents within the SOTL framework — leadership, hospitality, inclusion, and the intentional cultivation of environments where women feel welcomed, respected, and represented within cigar culture.
Special recognition to SOTL Cultural Host Miami, Dawn Obidebube, for her continued support and presence in advancing community and cultural engagement across the movement. 🔥💨🤍
Leadership. Culture. Impact.

Address

E. Hiddenview Drive
Phoenix, AZ
85048

Website

http://www.sotlglobalmovement.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when SOTL Global Movement posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Want your organization to be the top-listed Non Profit Organization in Phoenix?