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Ocean Drive Magazine Names Rudabeh Shahbazi Among Most Influential Women

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Ocean Drive Magazine has named who they think are the most influential women. Among them are local, high-profile women including one of our own.

Actress Gabrielle Union, who also happens to the be the wife of Miami Heat star Dwyane Wade graced the cover of their May/June Women of Influence issue

There was makeup, wardrobe and photography – nothing new for the people behind Miami's 'glamazine' but it was a totally new experience for many of the eight women modeling for the issue at The Carillon Hotel in Miami Beach.

"A select, exclusive group of powerful, influential, philanthropic, beautiful women. These are women of influence that we found fit the Ocean Drive brand," said Editor-in-Chief of Ocean Drive Magazine Jared Shapiro.

Front and center of the shoot was CBS4's evening anchor Rudabeh Shahbazi, who was quite enjoying the break from her regular news-heavy day.

"So far, it's been awesome. I feel so pampered. I feel so privileged to have my wardrobe done and to be in the magazine so it's really exciting, "said Shahbazi.

Since arriving in South Florida in the summer of 2015, Shahbazi has interviewed leaders of the community and covered world events, such as the opening of the American embassy in Cuba. She also spearheads CBS4's weekly segment "Mentoring Matters" where she brings us stories about mentors who work to inspire young people and make a difference in their lives.

"I don't really consider myself a woman of influence but it's very flattering and I think it's all about giving back and what you do for people on camera and off camera. It's about kind of what you do for the community and what you do with the opportunities you have," said Shahbazi.

The magazine also features seven other power women making a difference - all with philanthropy in mind.

It features women like Lucy Morillo, President of Miami Children's Health Foundation and Ana Navarro who is a Republican political strategist and CNN commentator.

Navarro had one question when she was told she'd be in the magazine.

"Oh my God really? I hope everybody else isn't so skinny," said Navarro.

Joking aside, Navarro said she's honored to be recognized as a woman of influence, but for her it just comes down to one thing and that's to be real.

"I think being on TV certainly gives you a platform. It gives you a voice. I think that it is so important to be yourself, to be genuine, to remember where you come from, to remember your roots, your community and to think about all those things as you're on TV," she said.

Morillo who spends long days fundraising for the Nicklaus Children's Hospital was also honored to be on this list.

"It means to have the opportunity to make a difference and to have your voice heard and to mentor others and to just help as many people as you can," said Morillo.

It's all about powerful women using their influence for good. Ocean Drive Magazine's Women of Influence issue is now available.

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