MIAMI LEADER:
Olga is a native Miami Girl and a Miami Leader. Olga believes in the power of cultural and civic participation as a cornerstone of society. Having spent over a decade on the business side of the art world, Olga has now turned her attention towards making a social impact in her home city. She is also proud to be raising two more native Miami girls.

WHY MIAMI?
I’ve spent the majority of life here, with just enough time away to appreciate the unique assets and opportunities Miami has for anyone with the courage to seize them. The access, connectivity, and tools for success in our city have multiplied exponentially. Miami is a place where anyone can work to make it the city they want to live in. I love making connections between people, cultures, and industries. Being here feels like being in the eye of the storm — in a good way!

WHAT IS THE MOST PRESSING ISSUE TO SOLVE ON YOUR LIST? WHY?
I see a lot of missed opportunities for people to work jointly towards common goals through cross-sector approaches. It’s important to breakdown silos and take on a more interdisciplinary and collaborative style of working — whether that be in the business community, public service, or the arts. It’s the way we complement each other that can make us the best place to live, work, and play while exporting the best examples on how to effect positive change.

HOW CAN WE SOLVE IT?
Currently, I’m working to ensure the historic Coconut Grove Playhouse, that has been shuttered for 10 years, reopens as a nucleus of activity that will provoke civic, artistic, creative, and commercial interaction amongst the diverse communities that surround it.
Located down the street from Miami City Hall it is a place where theater can serve as the starting point for engagement, discussion, and action on social change.
I also believe in making an impact by advocating for higher standards of achievement for all non-profits and developing stronger partnerships between the arts and business communities.