From Ranching Family in Venezuela to Inclusive Leader at Long Island University and Globally: Meet Renata Solomou
Residing on Long Island, NY, Renata shares her life with her loving husband, Michalis, and their three wonderful children: Maria (17), Gianni (10), and Christina (7). Affectionately known as "The Ultimate Horse Mom," she not only nurtures her family but also shares her passion for horses, instilling a love for these majestic creatures in her children.
A tireless advocate for the principles that form the bedrock of democracy, she champions freedom of speech and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs. Her solace and inspiration come from her faith, which she embraces wholeheartedly. However, her love and respect extend to all religions and spiritual paths, recognizing the inherent value in each person's unique journey toward understanding the divine.
In the realm of philanthropy, she serves on the Leadership Circle of the Equus Foundation, a charitable organization committed to the welfare of America's horses. Additionally, she holds the role of Development Director at the Olivia Hope Foundation, a childhood cancer nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of young cancer patients and their families. As a tireless cheerleader for Long Island University, she fosters educational opportunities and contributes to the growth and development of the institution. Her involvement extends beyond nonprofit organizations as she occupies seats in the private sector, where she leverages her expertise and network to make a positive impact in various spheres.
One of her most cherished dreams is to witness a Venezuela free from tyranny. She is deeply committed to the cause of her homeland, tirelessly advocating for change, the return of those who were forced to leave Venezuela, and the release of political prisoners.
Her life story is a testament to the power of faith, family, and the unwavering pursuit of justice and freedom.
What is your personal/professional story?
I have a rich and diverse personal and professional background that has shaped who I am today. I was born in Venezuela, and my cultural heritage is a blend of Venezuelan and Italian influences, thanks to my Italian father and 'white criollo' roots on my mother's side.
My entrepreneurial journey began at the remarkably young age of 10 when I embarked on my first business venture. I would curate playdates for children, bringing along toys, videotapes of cartoons, and even MTV for entertainment. It was my first taste of entrepreneurship, and I quickly learned the value of providing unique experiences and services.
Growing up, I was born into a family of ranchers, which instilled in me a strong work ethic and a deep connection to the land. I started working alongside my father on the ranch at a very young age, learning valuable skills and a profound appreciation for hard work and the outdoors.
Today, I have evolved into a serial entrepreneur, with a portfolio of successful ventures. Beyond my professional endeavors, I am also a devoted full-time wife and mother and a passionate fundraiser. I find tremendous fulfillment in contributing to the causes I believe in and supporting my community.
However, if there's one God-given talent that truly defines me, it's my ability to connect with others. I pride myself on my extensive network and my knack for bringing people together to accomplish meaningful goals. Whether it's in business or philanthropy, I use this skill to bridge gaps, foster collaboration, and make a positive impact.
What key moments in your life led you to where you are today?
Reflecting on my life journey, I've come to realize that every difficulty and challenge I've faced has played a crucial role in shaping who I am today. These moments of adversity, while at times painful, have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. However, if I were to pinpoint the single most significant key moment in my life, it would undoubtedly be the experience of immigrating multiple times to various countries.
Immigrating has been a transformative and defining aspect of my life. It has not only exposed me to different cultures but also allowed me to immerse myself in diverse environments, each with its unique perspectives, values, and ways of approaching life. This constant exposure to different worldviews has given me a valuable advantage: the ability to see things from multiple angles and to offer creative and adaptable solutions.
Rather than viewing immigration as a limitation or a defining factor, I see it as a tremendous asset. It has enriched my life by enabling me to draw from a vast pool of experiences and insights. My ability to bridge cultures and bring diverse perspectives to the table has proven invaluable in my entrepreneurial pursuits, as well as in my role as a fundraiser and community builder.
In essence, the key moments of my life, including the challenges and the experiences of immigrating, have collectively shaped the adaptable, open-minded, and empathetic person I am today. These moments have equipped me with the tools to navigate an ever-changing world, find innovative solutions to complex problems, and connect with individuals from all walks of life."
Where does your passion to serve come from?
My passion for serving others is deeply rooted in my core values and has been an intrinsic part of my identity for as long as I can remember. While I firmly believe that anyone can cultivate a spirit of service, I've always felt an innate vocation to serve others.
Throughout my life, there hasn't been a single day where I didn't strive to be of service in some way. This innate desire to help and support others has consistently brought me the greatest satisfaction and fulfillment. It's not just a role I play; it's a fundamental part of who I am.
I serve as a partner to my husband, understanding that a strong partnership is built on mutual support and care. I serve as a caretaker for my children, recognizing the importance of nurturing and guiding the next generation. But it doesn't stop there. My passion for service extends beyond my immediate family to those who need it the most.
There's a profound sense of purpose that comes from knowing I can make a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether it's through philanthropic endeavors, fundraising, or simply lending a helping hand to someone in need, I find immense joy in being able to contribute to the well-being and happiness of those around me.
Ultimately, my passion for service is a driving force in my life, shaping my actions, decisions, and priorities. It's a source of deep fulfillment and a reminder that, in serving others, we can create a more compassionate and interconnected world.
How can GlobalMindED help you reach your goals?
GlobalMindED aligns perfectly with this philosophy, and I am deeply honored to be a part of such an accomplished and brilliant group of individuals.
Through collaboration within the GlobalMindED network, we have the opportunity to leverage the diverse talents, experiences, and expertise of its members. Together, we can extend our reach and make a more profound impact on the goals we're collectively working towards.
One of my primary objectives is to inspire and uplift young minds, helping them understand that the only real limits in life are the ones we impose on ourselves. GlobalMindED provides a platform where we can pool our resources, knowledge, and networks to create educational and mentorship programs that empower the next generation.
The support and insights offered within the GlobalMindED community can help us design and implement initiatives that break down barriers and provide equal opportunities for all. By collaborating with fellow members, I am confident that we can create transformative experiences for young individuals, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with confidence and resilience.
In essence, GlobalMindED is a vital conduit for like-minded individuals to come together, share their collective wisdom, and drive positive change. It embodies the principle that by working together, we can achieve far more than we ever could individually. I am excited to be part of this community and look forward to contributing to its mission of breaking down barriers and expanding horizons for future generations.
