About - Dr Maria Barbosa

Professional background:

Entrepreneur for 36 years working in small and big businesses.

Property investor and Property manager
FSBA Certified as School Board of Education
I possess a Diploma for: PHD-Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Clinical Counseling -Recognized by Florida Secretary of the State & Education Department
Licensed Clergy Pastor
ACCEL-Holistic Life Coach
Founder-Director of ACCEL Educational Leadership
Specialized on Temperaments – Personalities
Bachelor of Theology in Pastoral leadership
Certified-Mastering Ecclesiastical Administration
Author of ACCEL Educational Leadership
Working as a not for profit consultant
Coordinator-advisor for Youth
I’m an artist and an advocate for my community.

& Founder of D.I.V.A.S International

& Pass President of Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast

Dr. Maria Pinto Barbosa is an educator, author, counselor-coach, and community leader whose life and work are rooted in a lifelong continuum of service. Originally from Portugal, she emigrated to the United States with a deep commitment to education, faith, and community transformation. After living in New Jersey for 16 years, she made Flagler County, Florida her home, where she continues to serve with dedication and purpose.

Dr. Barbosa made history in Florida as the first individual born in Portugal to be elected through popular vote in the Sunshine State, serving her community as a Flagler County School Board Member of Education. This milestone stands as a testament not only to civic engagement, but also to the power of perseverance, inclusion, and servant leadership.

Community service, for Dr. Barbosa, is not a role-it is a calling. She believes service exists on a continuum, shaped by consistent acts of compassion, advocacy, and leadership. Through education, coaching, authorship, and public service, she remains committed to uplifting individuals and strengthening communities-one purposeful step at a time.

She warmly invites others to join her in this journey of continuous betterment, where empathy, integrity, and impactful service build a stronger future for all.