By Nelissa Dass-Claveria
If you had told me in early 2024 that I’d be elected President of the Arlen House West Condominium Association by January 2025, I might’ve laughed politely and gone back to my to-do list. After all, I had only just joined the board—eager to serve, yes, but still getting my bearings in the complex world of condo governance.
But here I am, sharing the news that still feels both surreal and deeply humbling: as of January 2025, I was officially voted in as President of the Arlen House West Condominium Association, as recorded in document #723756 on Sunbiz.org. The vote of confidence from my peers—fellow residents and board members—has been both a surprise and an incredible honor.
So how did it happen so quickly? I believe the answer lies in the same principles I’ve always lived by: show up, listen carefully, act decisively, and lead with both empathy and backbone. Whether in business, family, or community life, I’ve found that people respond to authenticity and a shared commitment to betterment.
When I joined the board in 2024, my goal wasn’t to climb any ladder—it was to contribute meaningfully to a place I call home. Arlen House West isn’t just another condominium. It’s a tapestry of cultures, histories, and dreams—a true microcosm of the Miami experience. From day one, I rolled up my sleeves and got involved: engaging with neighbors, attending every meeting, advocating for more transparency, and focusing on the long-term value of our collective investments.
I brought to the table not only my business experience from running a family company for over two decades, but also my lived understanding of what it means to balance budgets, mediate conflicts, and build consensus in diverse environments. It didn’t take long before fellow residents began encouraging me to run for a leadership role—and when the time came, they gave me their vote of confidence.
As President, I now have the responsibility—and privilege—of guiding our community through important decisions about maintenance, modernization, financial stewardship, and harmony among neighbors. It’s a role I don’t take lightly. I want every resident, whether owner or tenant, full-time or seasonal, to feel that their voice matters, their concerns are heard, and their quality of life is prioritized.
Leadership, I’ve learned, isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about creating the space where the best ideas can rise to the surface. It’s about protecting what we’ve built while daring to imagine what’s possible.
To my fellow board members and neighbors at Arlen House West: thank you. Thank you for your trust, your candor, and your commitment to this beautiful community we call home. Let’s make 2025 a year of collaboration, innovation, and shared pride in what we’re building—together.
Warmly,
Nelissa Dass-Claveria
President, Arlen House West Condominium Association
