Her Story
About Pranita
Pranita Venkatesh is the Mayor of San Carlos, California. She has served with the City of San Carlos since 2022 and became mayor in December, rotating from her prior position as councilmember. In addition, Venkatesh owns and directs a Montessori preschool she founded in 2013. Her primary areas of focus include safety, infrastructure, downtown development, affordable housing, and fiscal budgeting. She earned a bachelor's degree in 2000 from the College of Notre Dame in Beaumont, along with a master's degree in early education and a master's degree in clinical psychology from the same institution. Venkatesh also holds a Montessori teaching credential. She is a board member of the Asian American Pacific Islander organization of San Mateo County. Venkatesh attributes her success to genuinely caring for her community and loving her work. She strives to be honest, transparent, and humble in all her endeavors.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Pranita
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think I really care, and I love what I do.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My dad always said follow your passion and money will follow.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I think you have to lead with your heart, and make sure all the voices are heard.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Just work and family balance. It's like you're trying to be mom, you're trying to be teacher, you're trying to be wife. You're trying to take care of 35,000 residents and try to listen to all their needs. I think just balance.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
To be honest, transparent, and humble.
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