Changemaker

Isabela Grutman

The Brazilian entrepreneur is helping thousands of Miami students start the school year with confidence through Style Saves

OCTOBER 21, 2026 1:27 PM EDTOCT 21, 2026, 1:27 PM EDT

Every August, thousands of Miami children arrive at the Miami Beach Convention Center to pick out brand-new uniforms, sneakers and backpacks before heading back to school. There is music, entertainment and plenty of excitement, but behind the celebration is a serious purpose. Isabela Grutman, vice president of Style Saves, has spent years helping make this annual event possible, giving families access to essentials they might otherwise struggle to afford.

In 2026, the nonprofit welcomed approximately 10,000 students to its annual giveaway, which included bounce houses, activities and personalized backpacks. What has become one of Miami’s major back-to-school initiatives started on a much smaller scale.

Isabela Grutman attends the "JR X Evan Spiegel" Party at Cheval Blanc - Langosteria on June 5, 2026 in Paris

Isabela became involved shortly after moving to Miami, when she met Style Saves founder Rachael Russell Saiger. At the time, the organization was helping around 50 children a year. She immediately connected with the cause and has played a role in expanding its reach. Today, Style Saves reports having supported more than 250,000 students and families, including children in foster care, homeless shelters and migrant communities. It also produces its own uniforms and works with Miami-Dade public schools on a mentorship program.

Born in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Isabela was discovered as a model in her teens and went on to work internationally. Her fashion experience eventually led her to entrepreneurship. She created Rangel, a resortwear label named in honor of the women in her family, and launched Isa Grutman fine jewelry in 2022, drawing inspiration from her Brazilian heritage.

This year, she added another high-profile design to her portfolio: tennis champion Aryna Sabalenka’s 12-carat engagement ring, framed with emeralds. She also joined Serena Williams and Thalía in Prime Video’s The CEO Club, giving viewers a glimpse into her professional and personal life.

For Isabela, her work with Style Saves carries particular meaning now that she is raising two daughters. She wants them to grow up understanding the importance of independence, hard work and giving back. While her fashion and jewelry businesses continue to grow, Style Saves remains especially close to her heart. What started with a few dozen backpacks now helps thousands of Miami families every year, giving more children a chance to start school feeling confident and included.