I am the founder and executive director of RIZE Prevention. I reside in Simpsonville with my husband Scott and two sons Sami and Michael. We are blessed to enjoy a second home in beautiful Pickens, as well. I truly love Upstate SC and volunteer as much as I can to support this exceptional community!
Q: Tell us about yourself, including a little bit about where you grew up, your education, your family, interests, passions, and career?
I’m a proud Lebanese-American. I was born in Beirut and lived my early childhood years between Beirut and Dubai. When I first moved to the USA, I lived with my late grandparents in Simpsonville, very close to where I now reside. Life has taken me all over the world, but Upstate SC kept calling. I am a graduate of Hillcrest High School and earned a BA in Political Science Health & Exercise Science minor from Furman University. I started working at the age of 15 and owned my first business at 16. I’ve had the privilege of living and working all over the world and in many different professional roles. The tie that binds all of my professional experiences is my passion for encouraging and motivating people to overcome challenges and truly thrive. I really enjoy studying Christian theology, hiking, weight training, traveling, cooking and mentoring. The overarching passion of my life influenced everything I do and how I love people: Christ. My life has essentially been a journey into the Will of God for me. “Beautifully turbulent” is how I’d describe it.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in The Golden Strip?
In total, 15 years.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I can blow bubbles off my tongue LOL.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in The Golden Strip?
Oh, there are a few! Hard to pick just one! Here are my top three: Cristina Ortiz, Sam Konduros, and Beth Hicks.
Q: What current / former local business makes you the most nostalgic about The Golden Strip?
Wilson’s 5 &10.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about The Golden Strip?
I just love the train that still travels through twice a day!
Q: With so much growth in our area, there are always new places popping up. Tell us about the a “new to you” place that you recently tried.
Sweet Catherine’s in Fountain Inn. Delicious food, cozy vibe and wonderful people!
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME or NEIGHBOR?
Love, Gathering, Support
Q: If you had friends or family visiting you from out of town, what is the one place that you must take them to?
Locally- Cedar Falls Park. Regionally- Caesar’s Head.
Q: If you had a free day with no plans, what would you do? Or where can we find you on the weekends?
Hiking to a waterfall.
Q: If you were cast into a major motion picture and had your choice of anyone to be your co-star, who would you choose?
My husband.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
A Mediterranean cruise.
Q: What advice would you give to a crowd of people?
Abandon the crowd! Live courageously set apart.
Q: Who would you like to see nominated for this project, The Faces of The Golden Strip?
Cristina Ortiz.
