Next Up Columbus 2024: Mandi Rinaldi
Interview by Derek Grosso
Name: Mandi Rinaldi
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Age: 25
Profession: Program Manager at A Kid Again
Neighborhood: Grandview Heights
Education: Bachelor’s degree in International Studies and Spanish, Minor in Human Rights from The Ohio State University
Community Involvement: A Kid Again, YWCA Leadership for Social Change, Femergy, Columbus Young Professionals, TopSoccer
Motto: People worth impressing: your 5-year-old self and your 85-year-old self
Connect: LinkedIn | Instagram
Give us a snapshot of your path
I was raised in a small city near Akron, OH in a large, fun-loving family. With big ambitions and a desire to see more of the world and meet new people, I moved to Columbus and attended OSU. I started getting involved and learning more about the Columbus community and soon fell in love with the people, arts, culture, and vibrancy of the city. I graduated with two majors and a minor in December of 2020 (entering the career field in the height of global pandemic is not something I would recommend). Deciding to remain in Columbus after graduation, I have made this my home and have committed myself to advocating, connecting, and building community for those that need it most. I have been fortunate to develop my career in the non-profit sector, learning from and being inspired by passionate, talented people around me.
What gets you up in the morning? And what gets you through the workweek?
The idea that I can try something new every day gets me out of bed in the morning. Every day has the potential to be my new favorite day, with a chance to make new memories, meet new people, hear a new song, and learn more about myself.
What advice or mentors have helped guide you along the way?
I am lucky to be surrounded by so many incredible people. Through them, I have learned there are millions of ways- big and small- to make a difference in the world. And they are all important, valued, and necessary. Use your skillset, talents, and passion to find the way that works for you.
What do you do or where do you go to unwind?
I am in my hobbies era, trying and learning new things that excite me. I enjoy unwinding through a neighborhood walk, yoga, reading, cross-stitching, bike riding on my hand-me-down bike, and spending time with my family, friends and plants.
What are a few of your favorite local spots in Columbus?
Lower.com Field… go Crew!, Columbus Commons, The Goat, SOW Plated, Stauf’s, High Bank Distillery, Worthington Farmer’s Market, Scioto Mile
When you were a kid, what did you say you wanted to be when you grew up?
The first female President of the United States #Rinaldi2036
What books or podcasts are you reading/listening to right now?
I am currently reading Brené Brown’s “Daring Greatly”, as well feeding my fiction craving with the Throne of Glass series. I listen to How To (to learn something), On Purpose with Jay Shetty (to be inspired), Well Said (to relate), and We’re Here to Help (to laugh).
What does it mean to you to be chosen for the Next Up Columbus award?
Being chosen as a Next Up Columbus honoree excites and fuels me to keep contributing to and advocating for the community. It’s invigorating to be chosen and be surrounded by like-minded people that want to have a hand in shaping the future of Columbus.
If someone were to ask you what the “pulse” of Columbus is, what would you tell them?
Columbus is on the up and up. Everywhere you look- things, people, and places are evolving. There’s something for everyone!
The Next Up Columbus Awards highlight emerging leaders who are connectors and ambassadors in central Ohio and who are making a positive impact on the future of Columbus. The Columbus Young Professionals Club would like to offer special thanks to our 2024 co-presenters, Discover Financial, Columbus Chamber of Commerce and Edison Brewing Co. for their support of this year’s awards program. Meet the entire “Class of 2024” »