Sophia Rabe

34 | Founder/Owner, Olive & Milo
Residence: Chittenden

Career Highlights: A highlight of my career has been seeing the ripple effects of our work — from helping a nonprofit raise funds to supporting a long-standing local business as they expand their reach. Olive and Milo has built a vast and diverse portfolio over the years, and it’s been such a privilege to get to know and collaborate with so many people and industries along the way.

Community Involvement: My community involvement includes beingn on the Governor’s Institute of Vermont board of Trustees for 6 years.  I serve as a Commissioner on the Vermont Commission on Women and was appointed by the governor. Something i really love doing is mentoring others, sometimes at the local colleges, other times my own peers. I will volunteer my time to give free marketing services to those in my community, for example, local EMS and schools

What motivated you to live and work in Vermont: I was motivated to live and work in Vermont by growing up here, getting out and living in Manhattan, and then coming back with a whole new appreciation.

Favorite part of your job: My favorite part of my job is working with so many great people in various industries

What is the best career advice: The best career advice I have received is to make sure you know who’s on your bench.

Favorite Vermont escape: My favorite Vermont escape is the top of the App Gap

Favorite Vermont season: My favorite Vermont escape is summer

What is your favorite smell: My favorite smell is fresh lilac.

If you had unlimited access to funds, which cause(s) would you support: The cause I would support is paid sick and parental leave.

Drawing on your experiences, what advice would you give to someone looking to get involved in community service: Start small and local—look for needs right in your own community and connect with organizations whose values resonate with you. Genuine involvement grows naturally when you show up consistently and lead with curiosity and care!