Venture Carolina Announces 2024-25 Class of the Palmetto Venture Fellowship
Venture Carolina, a nonprofit dedicated to bridging the funding gap between investors and entrepreneurs, has once-again partnered with VentureSouth, the South Carolina Department of Commerce’s Office of Innovation, and the SC Jobs-Economic Development Authority (JEDA) to facilitate the Palmetto Venture Fellowship, a program designed to create more local accredited investors and expand risk-capital accessibility for early-stage startups in South Carolina. The Palmetto Venture Fellowship, now in its second year, utilizes a seven-part, comprehensive workshop series to expose participants to the intricacies associated with early-stage capital formation.
Meet the Palmetto Venture Fellowship Class of 2024-25
PAUL ANUSZKIEWICZ
As founder of Palmetto Technology Associates LLC, Paul provides technology and management consulting across a varied array of clients in various technology verticals. Over his 35 year career, he has held senior roles in Network Engineering, Network Operations and as Chief Technical Officer. Previously, he served as the CEO of Caten McGuire, where he and his teams served most of the wireless carriers and satellite providers across Europe and the Americas with SaaS-based solutions. Paul is a board member of four startups, including two VentureSouth portfolio companies, Iconic Moments and CADChat. Paul holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from California State University and an MBA from the University of Dallas. Paul and his wife, Kim, are active in philanthropy with MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children Hospital, the Kiawah Island Conservancy, and Sea Islands Habitat for Humanity.
AHAZ ARMSTRONG
Ahaz Armstrong, CPA is a seasoned finance professional with 20 years of experience in banking, corporate finance, and public accounting. He has expertise advising on capital structure, managing loan portfolios, and driving sales growth while advising with some of the world’s largest and most prominent real estate companies. Ahaz is Director of Finance for the North Carolina Housing Foundation, a nonprofit affordable housing developer. He oversees the financial planning, management, reporting, risk management, and strategy of the Foundation. Ahaz is a graduate of Wake Forest University in Winston Salem, NC and East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, TN. Ahaz lived in Naples, Italy for nearly three years and enjoys cooking, basketball, and travel.
JENNIFER AXMACHER
Jennifer is a senior executive with 25+ years of experience working in global corporate environments and early-stage start-ups. Her diverse background combines the vision and innovation of an entrepreneur, the analytical and outside-of-the-box mindset of a strategy consultant, and the discipline and execution of a “big consulting” veteran. She is an independent consultant, focusing on helping entrepreneurs launch their businesses and navigate the challenges that companies face in the early stages of growth. She served as the Chief Strategy Officer & President of Technology at Enspira, a human capital consulting start-up. Jennifer is also a coach and mentor at the Harbor Entrepreneur Center. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science & French from Duke University. Jennifer lives in the Charleston area with her husband, Mark, her son, Wynn, and their dog, Tucker. She enjoys cooking, traveling & playing tennis.
JAMES BURNS
James Burns is a partner at Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP where he is an experienced litigator in the areas of toxic torts/asbestos, consumer financial services litigation, FINRA broker dealer litigation, and business litigation. A chief of staff to former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and a past chairman of the State Ethics Commission, James has counseled and represented clients in administrative law matters before state governmental bodies and in state attorney general investigations. In response to COVID-19, Governor Henry McMaster appointed James to lead his COVID response and economic recovery team, AccelerateSC. James is a 28-year veteran of the United States Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps having served overseas in and at the Pentagon. James is very active in his community having served as President of the Chapin Eagle Club and chair of the School Improvement Council for Chapin Middle School.
MATT BUTLER
Matt is an early-stage investor, a 3x founder (2 successful exits and 1 priceless set of lessons), a seasoned real estate investor and trusted advisor to businesses across the country at all stages of growth. His journey with growth firms began in 2002 as the dot.com bubble was bursting where he was an early employee of a telecom startup that went from VC to PE to IPO to Exit, and he’s been fascinated with growing and scaling businesses ever since. Matt enjoys getting to know good people who have cool ideas and the determination to bring them to life. Coaching is in his DNA - whether on the field or in the boardroom, he is passionate about guiding people and organizations to succeed in both business and life (and have fun doing it). Building meaningful relationships and living life with purpose is the cornerstone of his approach to business. Most importantly, Matt is faithful, a loving husband and devoted father, and as authentic as they come.
SARA CAUDLE
Sara joined the team at Anchor Management in 2021 and, after working several years with both institutional and personal investment portfolios, she enjoys the collaborative culture at Anchor that places clients above commissions. Sara believes long-term investment strategies deliver positive results more often than approaches with short-term focus, and her greatest source of professional satisfaction happens when she shares with clients that their financial dreams have come true or that they have turned around a struggling portfolio. Upon graduating from Roanoke College in 2012, Sara landed in Greensboro, NC and spent two years working for an independent Registered Investment Advisor before moving to Columbia, SC to work with an institutional investment consulting firm. She hoped to return to private wealth management and, when an opportunity at Anchor presented itself, she felt compelled to join their team.
AARON CLARK
Aaron Clark is an accomplished risk advisor working with commercial and personal insurance portfolios. In 2024, he accepted a role with Risk Strategies as a Vice President with the goal to drive growth in the Atlantic region. Under his leadership, Risk Strategies will grow from the 14th largest insurance brokerage in the nation, to the 5th largest in the next 5 years. Aaron brings value to two of South Carolina’s biggest current areas of need: the real estate and construction sectors. After 8 years as an advisor, Aaron brings education, passion, and clarity to protection of physical assets both commercial and personal. Currently serving on the East Cooper Community Outreach development committee in Mount Pleasant, Aaron and his wife live in the Charleston area, enjoy the beach, and are avid pickleball players.
RUSSELL COCHRANE
Russell is a PhD candidate at the Medical University of South Carolina, focusing on developing next-generation immunotherapies through innovative approaches to immunology and cell engineering. A graduate of Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science in Genetics, Russell is passionate about translating complex scientific discoveries into impactful therapies that improve patient lives. Beyond his research, Russell is Vice President of the Financial Literacy Interest Group at MUSC, helping students enhance their financial literacy and explore the intersection of science and entrepreneurship. With a deep interest in venture capital, he is committed to bridging the gap between groundbreaking research and successful commercialization, contributing to the growth of life sciences and entrepreneurial ecosystems in the Southeast, fostering collaboration between scientists and entrepreneurs to drive innovation and meaningful impact.
ALLEN CREIGHTON
Allen has been an attorney for over 30 years. During that time, he was a partner in the McNair Law Firm (Burr & Foreman) and later served as Vice President and General Counsel for Fujifilm North America. While in private practice, Allen represented numerous small and medium size companies in manufacturing, distribution, and telecommunications. His practice areas included regulatory, international transactional, and general mergers and acquisitions. In 2014, he founded NovaLight Telecom Supply, a telecommunication distribution company, which was sold to a private equity firm in 2022. Allen received a Bachelor of Science degree from Emory University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Georgia. Allen is also very involved with the local community and has served on the board of the State Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, Upstate Forever, and other civic organizations. He enjoys spending time with his family and traveling.
HARRY CROMER III
Harry is a financial planner with 17 years of experience. Originally from Newberry, he has lived in the Chapin community since 2012. Harry graduated from The Citadel in 2004 with a Business degree. After school, he served as an infantry officer in the United States Army with a 15-month deployment to Iraq. As an active member in the Chapin Community, Harry serves as a member of the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and F3 Chapin, as a board member of the Greater Chapin Community Foundation, and other organizations, as well as coaching youth athletics. When he is not working, his hobbies include a passion for playing the guitar, working on his '65 Mustang, golf, hunting, and enjoying Lake Murray.
AUSTIN DANDRIDGE
Austin is a CEO and digital marketing expert with over 14 years of experience in the e-commerce and luxury space. The Founder of Cobble Hill, a Charleston-based digital marketing agency, Austin has propelled the company to the forefront of the industry. Specializing in brand growth through paid advertising and email marketing, Cobble Hill has garnered acclaim for its work, serving esteemed clients such as Draper James, Le Creuset, Frances Valentine, and Cynthia Rowley. Austin also hosts "The Marketing Factor," a podcast and content series dedicated to unveiling the art and science of intentional marketing. Through actionable insights and real-world case studies, he aims to empower brands at every stage of growth, fostering a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, marketers, and thought leaders. At the core of his work is a commitment to authenticity, helping brands stay true to their values and thrive in a competitive market.
MEGHAN FLEMING
With 10 years of experience in the HR space, Meghan Fleming is a top producer at Insperity, specializing in helping businesses optimize their performance and achieve their goals. Born and raised in North Carolina, Meghan has spent the last five years in South Carolina, blending her country roots with a passion for city life. As a Certified Business Performance Advisor, Meghan is dedicated to serving clients with tailored HR solutions, driving both growth and efficiency for businesses of all sizes. Beyond her professional achievements, Meghan is an active member of the American Heart Association Heart Ball, a cause that is close to her heart. Volunteering and giving back to her community are central to Meghan’s values, and she is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others. Outside of work, Meghan enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, creating lasting memories and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
WILL FRIERSON
Will Frierson is the Executive Vice President and Chief Government Affairs Officer for the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. As a member of the organization’s executive leadership team, he is responsible for the development and management of the organization’s overall government affairs, public policy, and communications strategies, and its day-to-day lobbying activities. Before joining the SC Chamber in 2021, Frierson was the Government Relations Manager for the National Cotton Council of America (NCC) in Washington, DC where he assisted in coordinating the Washington activities of the NCC and oversaw the organization’s political activities. A native of Orangeburg, SC, Will attended Wake Forest University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in politics and international affairs. He and his wife Emily live in Columbia with their Boykin Spaniel Auggie.
MARY GALLIVAN
Mary is the founder of Just So Mary, an award-winning professional organizing company. Before launching her business, Mary spent over 20 years in the education, startup, and nonprofit sectors, where she continues to consult. She previously served as Executive Director at CNM Ingenuity of Central New Mexico Community College and as Vice President at Foundation For The Carolinas. She began her career in motorsports philanthropy, as the founding Executive Director of the Jimmie Johnson Foundation and in building the Victory Junction Gang Camp, founded by Kyle and Richard Petty and Paul Newman. She serves on several boards and committees, including the Women’s Impact Fund, Philanos, and Women Executives, and is an Investing Member of Portfolia. She holds a B.A. in psychology from Duke University and an MBA from Queens University. Mary lives in Mount Pleasant with her husband, Sean, and rescue lab, Quinn.
BEN GLENN
Ben began his career with BPS in 2005 and became a shareholder in 2019, bringing over 20 years of experience in tax compliance and planning for individuals, corporations, and partnerships. A Certified Public Accountant and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, Ben works closely with businesses transitioning ownership or moving toward an exit. He is the lead tax professional for BPS' Insurance Industry Group and serves on the BPS Telecommunications Industry Group. Additionally, he leads the State and Local Tax (SALT) Service Division, specializing in income tax, sales tax, franchise tax, and property tax planning and compliance. Ben earned a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University and is a member of the South Carolina Captive Insurance Association, and The Friendly Society Restored. After hours - and after tax season - he enjoys spending time with his wife, Kara, and their two children.
LUKE GODWIN
Luke, a 3rd-generation entrepreneur, is the owner of Godwin Motors Inc., a thriving dealership in Columbia, SC. With over 20 years of experience, he has grown the business from a small operation to a 20-employee enterprise, building a Buy Here Pay Here portfolio of 900+ accounts with industry-leading repo rates under 12%. The dealership, along with its 14-bay service and recon facility, has proved a trusted local institution earning over 1,500 5-star reviews. Luke has also served as Past President of the Carolinas IADA, a 2016 CIADA Quality Dealer of the Year, and as a member of the National Independent Automobile Dealership Association’s Services and Foundation Board. As an angel investor, Luke supports startups in automotive tech, financial services, real estate, and community ventures. He also co-hosts The Independent Dealer Podcast, a resource for industry professionals.
MIKE GOODWIN
Mike Goodwin is a refreshingly funny comedian, speaker, and humor coach. His signature bowtie represents his expectation-defying brand of comedy that leaves a variety of audiences laughing hysterically and completely inspired, without a foul word spoken. Mike holds a master’s degree in Education from USC, is a veteran of the U.S. Army, and a former primary and secondary education professional. He infuses his varied life experiences into his act, making him relatable to audiences from all walks of life. Mike is a powerful communicator whose primary goal is to leave places and people better than he found them. He’s appeared on America’s Got Talent, Dry Bar Comedy, Amazon Prime, and SiriusXM. Mike has inspired the leadership of Delta Airlines and Oklahoma University and Mississippi State University football teams. A southern gentleman with a heart for God, Mike resides in Columbia with his wife, Rozalynn, and their two children.
ADDISON HAMMER
Addison is a technology leader with over 10 years of experience in advanced automation and robotics. He currently leads automation programs at Google, implementing robotic systems and solutions for data centers globally. Additionally, he applies his expertise to early-stage companies, leading technology development at X1 Pipeline, which leverages AI to streamline startup due diligence. He also led technology development at VisionAnchor, taking a consumer electronics product from concept to launch in 18 months. Addison's expertise spans mechanical, electrical, and software development. He holds an MS in Mechanical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University and a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech. Addison is passionate about supporting technology startups through mentorship and consulting, with a focus on technology, engineering, and product development. He lives in Charleston, SC with his wife and two boys.
JOHN HARRIS
John is the former co-owner of John Harris Body Shop, a family-owned business founded in 1975, which grew to include 16 locations and three mobile units across South Carolina and Georgia. Under his leadership, the company became known as the “ONLY collision repair chain to be ISO 9001-2015 Certified,” demonstrating a commitment to continuous process improvement and high-quality standards. In 2021, the company was acquired by Gerber Collision. John now focuses on his portfolio of real estate investment properties. A lifelong resident of Chapin, SC, John graduated from Presbyterian College with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Biology. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time on Lake Murray with his wife and four children.
LILLIA HOLMES
With over 25 years in the life sciences industry across both profit and non-profit sectors, Lillia leverages her scientific research background to support companies with complex operations. Currently, as COO of Palmetto InnovaSphere, she continues her commitment to advancing healthcare innovation and improving patient outcomes, aligned with her passions for growing life science companies in SC, oncology, and blood donation. Previously, as COO of Kiyatec, she led strategic execution, operational expansion, and established a CLIA-certified lab, advancing functional precision oncology diagnostics. Earlier roles at The Blood Connection, the Oncology Research Institute of Greenville Hospital System, and Greenwood Genetic Center honed her expertise in operations and regulatory affairs. Lillia holds an MS in Biomedical Sciences from East Tennessee State University and serves on the board of Women, Life and Science.
CARSON HOWARD
Carson serves as an investment analyst for Objectivity Squared, an independent, registered investment advisory firm on a mission to help the people they serve live with greater meaning and impact. Born from the belief that trust is the source from which prosperity flows, they do things differently, thoughtfully, sustainably, and creatively, empowering clients to make conscious, informed decisions. In Carson’s role as investment analyst, he participates in portfolio management, fund due diligence, hedging strategies, and assists with trading. Carson holds a BS in Finance from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. In his free time, Carson enjoys reading, strength training, swimming, and golf.
SHONTAVIA JOHNSON
Shontavia has helped hundreds build personal brands, businesses, and intellectual property portfolios. Twice named one of America’s top young lawyers, she was the first African-American woman to receive full tenure and an endowed chair at Drake University Law School. She currently serves as intellectual property counsel for the Savannah River National Laboratory. Her Brand and Business Company provides entrepreneurship access to women & people of color with free education through media platforms. She also leads the From Ground Zero movement, guiding entrepreneurs from idea to execution. She has presented at Google, the Smithsonian, SXSW, TEDxAtlanta, and globally. Featured in The Rolling Stone, The Washington Post, and NPR, she is also one of 200 Black women in tech to follow on Twitter/X. She is an Aspen Global Leadership Network Fellow and served as a Fulbright Specialist to Uzbekistan.
BEAU KANEFT
Beau joined Colonial Packaging in 2002 after graduating from Clemson University. He spent 15 years traveling the NE, MW, and SE in packaging sales before becoming VP in 2008. In 2017, he took on the role of President & CEO, leading the company through a period of rapid growth (60% in 8 years) and innovation. With over 20 years experience in the packaging industry, Beau has been instrumental in expanding Colonial Packaging’s market presence and building strong relationships throughout the US. His passion is the company’s philanthropic outlook on charitable giving and donations. Colonial works closely with villages in Malawi, Africa to help build infrastructure with housing, clean water and food. The company is actively engaged with Young Life programs, supporting their efforts to foster spirituality in teens across the Midlands and abroad. Beau lives in Columbia, SC with his beautiful wife, Alle, and their 3 children.
PETER LAMOTTE
Peter LaMotte is a seasoned communications executive with over two decades of experience in marketing, reputation management, and public relations. Before joining Chernoff Newman, he spent ten years in D.C., managing complex reputational issues for Fortune 500 corporations, international associations, foreign governments, and high-profile individuals. His experience includes work on Supreme Court cases, government data breaches, and anti-trust litigations. Previously, he led an online advertising agency creating rich media content for global brands. A contributor to the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and Forbes, LaMotte has taught at prestigious Georgetown, Vanderbilt, and American University. He holds a BA in International Business from Rhodes College and an MBA from Vanderbilt's Graduate School of Management. Originally from Beaufort County, he now lives in Charleston with his wife and children.
BRENT LOVELL
Originally from Myrtle Beach, Brent is a versatile professional whose career spans sports, entertainment, digital media, and entrepreneurship. After a career largely driven by soccer, he transitioned from the field to the screen, working as a professional actor and media producer in New York. He co-founded The Digital Dailies, a pioneering network delivering 60-second serialized content. Brent later launched Break Media (formerly Break BIG Entertainment) with an emphasis solely on collaboration and content creation for sports, music, and entertainment-related endeavors. Recently, Brent expanded his entrepreneurial portfolio by founding Twozie, LLC - an early-stage company offering chic cooler bags designed for active and social lifestyles. He is a Clemson University alum with a BS in Finance and a minor in marketing and currently resides in Murrells Inlet with his wife, Alison, their two children, and their Boston Terrier.
GAVIN MCDONALD
Gavin McDonald is a results-oriented professional with experience in project management, financial analysis, and business development, focused on driving economic growth and sustainable development. With a strong track record of managing multi-million-dollar projects, securing funding for community initiatives, and optimizing business processes, Gavin is now pursuing his aspiration to invest in small businesses and multi-family real estate. He is passionate about revitalizing urban communities and supporting entrepreneurs by blending strategic financial planning with purpose-driven investments. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from Greensboro College and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Finance and Analytics at Queen’s University.
MIKE MOSEL
Mike is the Founder and Principal of Pelarity, an Organizational Development Consulting Firm in Charleston. Driven by a passion for helping organizations understand how people influence business performance, Mike leverages his hands-on experience as a CEO and business owner, having successfully owned and exited several small to mid-cap companies. For the past six years, he has focused on using behavioral science and data to help senior leaders uncover hidden areas of their businesses. Mike specializes in solving challenges related to hiring, team-building, leadership development, and creating thriving cultures. An active member of the local business community through the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, Mike continues his personal growth by participating in CEO and business owner peer groups. Outside of work, he enjoys golf, working out and spending time with his wife, Brett, and their two daughters in Mount Pleasant.
GUSTAVO NIEVES
Gustavo Nieves is a seasoned leader in venture capital, private equity, and economic development with over 15 years of experience, spanning finance entrepreneurship, and advocacy. As co-founder and CEO of Rogue Assembly, he leads a venture studio that uses technology to tackle challenges in underrepresented communities. Gustavo also consults with startups on corporate finance, business model innovation, and scaling operations. Through Echo Base Expeditions, South Carolina’s first Latino-led private equity firm, he supports Latino-led companies in both the lower middle market and early-stage ecosystems. He has built companies across industries, facilitated over $10 million in fundraising, and serves on advisory boards in tech, fintech, and SaaS. With 15 years of non-profit leadership and experience in the CDFI space, Gustavo combines financial expertise and an entrepreneurial mindset to create lasting community impact.
GARY NIHART
Gary Nihart is a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader with a proven track record of building and scaling successful companies. As a founder and Chief Operating Officer of Atlas Organics, he helped grow the company from a startup into a nationally recognized leader in sustainable waste management, ultimately leading to its acquisition by a major industry player. Now serving as Managing Partner at Ataraxia, a strategic growth firm, Gary leverages his expertise in operational strategy, mentorship, and sustainability to help portfolio companies achieve long-term success. Known for his collaborative leadership style and dedication to innovation, Gary is committed to creating lasting positive impact in the business world.
PAUL PIZZUTI
Paul is a proud native of Florence, SC. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and investment advisor providing multi-disciplined financial solutions for business owners, families, and individuals. He is fascinated by the impact local investment and successful partnerships have on families, cultures, and communities. Paul lives in Greenville County with his wife, Claire, and their three children. He currently partners with Broadstreet Family Office and Innovative Investment Management.
RICHARD SLATER
Richard is the SVP of Sales and Marketing at Southeastern Freight Lines, a privately held LTL trucking company in Columbia, SC. Southeastern operates in 13 states with 8,500 associates. He has been with the company since 2011, holding various roles in operations, human resources, and sales. In his current role, he is responsible for sales strategy, marketing, customer service, and shipment forecasting. Richard graduated from the University of South Carolina and earned his MBA from the Darla Moore School of Business at USC, with a focus in Marketing and Finance. He is an active member of the Venture South Columbia chapter. Richard and his wife Molly reside in Columbia and have 3 children.
SHERRIE SNIPES-WILLIAMS
Sherrie Snipes-Williams has 25+ years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, board governance, strategy advancement, faith-based programming, performance management, planning, external communications & marketing, political campaigning and fundraising, and more. Currently, she is the CEO of Charleston Promise Neighborhood, an organization supporting under-resourced communities and elementary schools. Charleston Promise provides and facilitates comprehensive programs and services that support children, strengthen families, and mobilize residents to action. Previously, she served in leadership roles with The Atlanta Women’s Foundation, Samaritan House, CityCares (now Points of Light Foundation), Hands On Atlanta, and CityYear. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, she actively serves on local, statewide, and international nonprofit boards of directors.
HAMPTON THOMAS
Hampton, born in Austin, TX, is the middle child of three boys in an entrepreneurial family that moved frequently to support his father’s business ambitions. Raised with the support of a stay-at-home mom, Hampton attended James Island High School and later graduated from Elon University, where he was social chair of his fraternity and captain of the cheerleading team. After briefly working for a competitor of his father’s logistics business, he joined the family business in Atlanta, helping to expand it across the southeast. Hampton later formed a partnership to create PFP Logistics, and after seven years, he bought out his partners and now solely manages the business with his team. In his spare time, he has become a pilot, bought a business plane, runs triathlons, and competes in CrossFit.
ERIC THOME
Eric is the Vice President of Talent and Operations at Broadtree Partners. An entrepreneur himself, Eric acquired Folbot, a folding kayak company, in 2012. Eric currently serves as the director of the angel investing group, VentureSouth Charleston. Eric holds a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from Clemson University and an MBA from the Darden School at the University of Virginia. He is the board chair of the American Red Cross of the Lowcountry, the board chair of Empower Charleston, and an advisory board member for Clemson Honors College. Eric and his wife, Eloise, live in Charleston, SC with their daughters. He runs half marathons, practices mindfulness and meditation, loves to read and stinks at golf.
RINA ZATTAM
With a background as a serial entrepreneur, Rina has worked with early-stage companies to drive commercial success and scalability. Her professional experience spans accounting, investment, and operations, and now enriching the New Canaan Impact Capital team with her versatile expertise. Rina earned a degree in Business Administration, concentration in accounting, from USC Upstate. While initially pursuing a career in accounting, she chose to explore opportunities that aligned more closely with her passions and strengths, focusing on making a meaningful impact both professionally and personally. Bilingual in Arabic and English, Rina holds dual citizenship in the United States and Israel. She is deeply committed to her faith and actively supports organizations like XPan Global and Haggai International through her time, talents, and resources. Outside of her professional and philanthropic endeavors, Rina has a passion for aviation, often spending her free time flying and deepening her knowledge in the field.