In the years before becoming an angel investor and launching my startup Gratitude Interactive, developer of the app Love to Thank, I worked as a lawyer, political consultant and candidate, bilingual writer, teacher, and professional photographer—all occupations that taught me the power of gratitude. I came to Seattle from my native Venezuela, where I obtained both a graduate degree in Integrated Marketing Communications and a law degree. In my hometown Caracas, I worked at the Venezuelan Supreme Court. Later, I worked as a researcher for the political party Proyecto Venezuela and ran as a candidate for the Latin American Parliament and the house of representatives of the State of Miranda. The skills I honed in researching and public speaking have helped me tremendously in subsequent careers. Ultimately, I decided that my future wasn't in politics and made a career move that lead me to work as a marketing professional for several technology companies such as StarMedia, Petrolatin.com and DeRemate.com.Upon moving to the U.S., I pursued an MFA in Photography and founded my photography practice, Valentina Vitols Studio. Running my own business has given me the opportunity to travel and work with clients around the world, predominantly in the U.S., Latin America, and Asia. My work has been published by The Food Network, Delta Sky Magazine, Jet Airlines Magazine, Interior Design Magazine, Where Magazine, Restaura Magazine, Seattle Magazine, Seattle Metropolitan (online), King5′s Evening Magazine, MyNorthwest.com and Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution. I support and mentor early-stage entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses, with a particular interest in sustainability, education, women-friendly products and services, and social and environmental impact. The companies in my portfolio are a reflection of my belief that it’s truly exciting to be able to make a serious business out of something good.