2023 Panelists

Samantha Buffalo has been the general manager of her family’s coffee roastery and restaurant, Twin Beans Coffee Company, for ten years. She believes there are few things that promote true community as much as gathering around good food to hear each other’s stories and share life together. It is not uncommon for a typical family dinner in her home to evolve into a meal for neighbors, strangers, and friends of all ages and backgrounds. This theme of hospitality has become the heart of Twin Beans – the belief that we create community when we welcome each other into safe spaces. Other life-giving adventures that bring her joy are climbing Idaho’s waterfalls, skiing with her son, and browsing used bookstores with her husband.

Vicky Fajardo is the Program Director for the Idaho Women’s Business Center, located in Twin Falls. In this role, she is dedicated to serving entrepreneurs find the appropriate resources and opportunities to help elevate, sustain, and grow their businesses. From the age of 13, she started her entrepreneurial journey being her mother’s right hand in her decorating business to later running and owning the business. She is passionate about helping her community and understands the struggles and barriers that women, the underserved, and small businesses face and strives to bridge those gaps. Other passions, have been serving in the education field, earning her master’s degree, and becoming a Licensed Real Estate Agent. Today, she continues to follow her passion for helping the underserved and those with limited access to business education. Vicky is originally from Mexico and takes pride in her culture, heritage, and takes great pride in her background richness.

Liz Hall became a Chamber Ambassador for the Twin Falls Area Chamber of Commerce in December of 2016. In January 2021 Liz became the vice-chair of the Ambassadors and in 2022 she became the chair. During her time she ran the Executive Board with compassion and care. Liz noticed a need for a new chair position and created one and appointed a chair in order to help new ambassadors gain a love for the program and community that she has gained over the years. Liz loves Twin Falls and loves supporting local businesses.

Malan is an Idaho native, born and raised right here in the Magic Valley. She is a mother, a wife, and an entrepreneur. She is one of the visionaries behind Milner's Gate and has a deep value in the people of her community. Malan has spent the last 12 years pursuing interpersonal relationships, personal growth, and leadership strategies. She believes in staying rooted in core values and working on personal development while supporting others to do the same.