Her Story
About Laura
I grew up in Brazil playing tennis and competing in junior tournaments until I was recruited to play Division I tennis in the United States on a scholarship. I played at Augusta State University, where I also worked as assistant coach for 3 years while completing my master's degree in public administration. During my summers, I worked at junior tennis camps in New York, and my head coach encouraged me to pursue coaching as a career because I was very good at it. After graduating, I moved to New York to coach at a high-performance junior academy with a close friend. Eventually, I felt stagnant in my role as just a coach and wanted a leadership position where I could influence an entire community and create an environment I truly supported. That led me to Seabrook Island in Charleston, South Carolina, where I found an amazing community that's always looking at philanthropic ways to help the local area. As Director of Racquet Sports here, I've been able to grow the Fleming Open Tournament exponentially from 200 to 400 players over the past 2 years. The tournament raises money for the community on Johns Island, and last year we raised $40,000. I'm very proud of showing the community, members, and my employees that we're always here to do something for somebody else, not just for us. That's why we're in hospitality.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Laura
01What do you attribute your success to?
I'm extremely thankful to my head coach in college, because without that solid coaching experience in my life as a foreigner from Brazil, I don't think I would be here today. He showed me that you can do anything as long as you enjoy it. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my career and guides how I approach my work and mentor others.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I received was from my head coach in college, who showed me that you can do anything as long as you enjoy it. That simple but powerful message has shaped my entire career path and helped me understand that passion and enjoyment are the foundation of success.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say believe in yourself. If you enjoy it, you're going to be able to achieve whatever you want, whenever you want. It might take time sometimes, but everybody achieves their goals in different time frames. So don't rush it, just keep pursuing your dreams, keep working hard, and you're gonna get it.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I believe we're always here to do something for somebody else, not just for us. That's why we're in hospitality. It's always fulfilling to see players of any age, any background, any level achieve what they want to achieve. I'm very proud of showing the community, the members, and my employees that we can make a difference through our work. The philanthropic aspect of what we do, like raising $40,000 for the community through the Fleming Open Tournament, represents what matters most to me - creating an environment where we grow together and help others.
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