Erica Leonhard is the Owner and CEO of Magical Dreamers Travel, a global travel agency that blends memorable vacation planning with entrepreneurship. Recognized in the Best Entrepreneurs category at the BASA Awards®, she is known for building scalable, purpose-driven businesses that create opportunity for others. Under her leadership, Magical Dreamers Travel has grown into a worldwide network of independent agents, empowering individuals — particularly women and immigrants — to build sustainable businesses within the travel industry.
The BASA Awards caught up with Erica to learn more about her achievements.
Do you have a mantra or motto that you live by?
“Dream boldly. Build relentlessly.”
This mantra guides every step of my journey as an entrepreneur. I believe big ideas only come to life when we dare to dream without limits and commit to consistent, purposeful action. Vision means nothing without execution, and growth happens outside of comfort zones.
Any recent successes you’d like to share with us?
Being recognized as Best Entrepreneur – Travel USA at the 2025 BASA Awards was a meaningful milestone that reflects both my leadership and our company’s growth. Magical Dreamers Travel also expanded its national presence, strengthened its agent network, and introduced new operational tools to improve efficiency and scalability. In addition, I launched StriveHub Business, a new venture focused on supporting entrepreneurs entering the U.S. market. It’s been a year of strategic growth, innovation, and community impact.
What is one word you’d use to describe yourself?
Relentless.
I never stop moving forward, learning, or pushing for more. That energy, resilience, and determination drive both my personal growth and the success of the businesses I lead.
Can you tell us about any peers you admire?
I deeply admire women entrepreneurs — especially immigrant women — who build their futures through courage and resilience. Starting from zero, navigating uncertainty, and creating opportunities for themselves and others takes incredible strength. Their journeys inspire me daily and reflect the kind of leadership and impact I strive to bring to my own work.
What’s your favorite exercise?
Walking around Disney and Universal parks, nothing beats the steps I get in there. And yes, shopping absolutely counts too!
"Achievements are moments of growth, purpose, and impact. Success is most meaningful when it turns dreams into reality and creates opportunities that uplift others."
Erica Leonhard is the Owner and CEO of Magical Dreamers Travel, based in Orlando, Florida, USA. Learn more about Erica’s business here.
