Inside the Success of the 2024 GB FlexWorks/MDCPS Vendor Fair

In April 30, 2024, GB FlexWorks and Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) hosted an Ancillary Vendor Fair, an event that brought together vendors from across the district to celebrate their vital role in supporting the Workers’ Compensation program. Coordinated by Isabel Dovale, VP- Provider Network Development with Gallagher Bassett, and Rosa Royo, Director of Workers’ Compensation, this event highlighted the importance of partnership, appreciation, and community building. Bloom Magazine sat down with Isabel to discuss the effort, dedication, and meaning behind this successful event.

Bloom Magazine: Isabel, the 2024 Ancillary Vendor Fair was a huge success! What inspired you and Rosa to organize this event?

Isabel Dovale: Thank you! The Ancillary Vendor Fair was all about showing our appreciation for the people who help make the mission and vision of the program a reality. Vendors play such a key role in our system, and Rosa and I wanted to create a meaningful event where we could connect with them, acknowledge their efforts, and let them know how much their contributions matter. GB FlexWorks and MDCPS don’t just see vendors as service providers—they’re truly partners in what we do.

Bloom Magazine: What was the most rewarding part of putting this event together?

Isabel Dovale: Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces and the genuine sense of connection. It was rewarding to watch vendors interact with our team, share their experiences, and feel recognized. Knowing that Rosa and I were able to create an atmosphere of gratitude and positive connections made every moment of planning worth it.

Bloom Magazine: The event also included interviews with attendees. One question you asked was, “What do you value in your vendors?” What stood out to you in their responses?

Isabel Dovale: The responses reinforced everything we aim for in our partnerships. People mentioned qualities like dependability, clear communication, empathy and integrity. What really struck me was the emphasis on trust—how much it matters to have vendors who follow through on their promises and are there when it counts.

Bloom Magazine: Events like this require a lot of planning and coordination. What kept you motivated throughout the process?

Isabel Dovale: For both Rosa and me, it was the knowledge that this event would highlight the success of the program through collaboration and partnership. Our vendors are a vital part of the GB FlexWorks/MDCPS family, and this fair was an opportunity to say, “We see you, and we appreciate you.” That sense of purpose kept us going, even when the logistics became challenging.

Bloom Magazine: Looking ahead, what do you hope for the future of the Ancillary Vendor Fair?

Isabel Dovale: Our focus will always be on fostering meaningful connections and continuing to show our appreciation for our partners. The Vendor Fair is an opportunity to strengthen relationships and ensure that everyone involved feels valued for their contributions to our schools and community.

Bloom Magazine: Any final thoughts you’d like to share with our readers?

Isabel Dovale: I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the vendors who participated and the GB FlexWorks/MDCPS team that made this event possible. Events like the Ancillary Vendor Fair remind us of the strength that comes from working closely together. Rosa and I are honored to be part of a community that understands the importance of these partnerships.

The 2024 GB FlexWorks/MDCPS Ancillary Vendor Fair was a celebration of collaboration and dedication, exemplified by the leadership of Isabel Dovale and Rosa Royo. Their efforts brought the community together, strengthening the foundation for continued success in supporting GB FlexWorks/Miami-Dade schools.