Born in India, Giri Venkatraman’s story is one of richness and the overcoming of many difficulties to get where he is today. Venkatraman is dedicated to many very important causes and is passionate about Lake Nona and Central Florida, making him an ideal candidate for this month’s edition of Nona Your Neighbor.

NHN: What brought you to Lake Nona?

GV: I was an ENT (ear, nose and throat) surgeon and one of two associate quality officers at Dartmouth University in New Hampshire. I was diagnosed with a medical condition and gave up medical practice. I was familiar with Orlando, as I vacationed here often, and the Lake Nona area in particular because of Medical City. I decided to move away from the ice and snow in New Hampshire, and living here has been emotionally and physically terrific. Part of my hope was to join the VA or UCF or Guidewell and be involved in the wellness and healthy living that makes Lake Nona so unique.

NHN: How long have you lived here?

GV: A little more than two years.

NHN: Where are you from originally?

GV: I was born in India and moved to the USA when I was 15. I have been a citizen of the USA since 1988. [I] did my college, medical school, residency and practice in the U.S.

NHN: What do you do for work?

GV: I am a non-practicing physician and currently have several part-time jobs. First, I am the Director at PotentiaMetrics, a startup health IT firm. Second, I work at the research faculty at UCF, focusing on wellness and the impacts of sesame oil extract. Third, I work in real estate. I have started a LLC and a real estate offering: @LNWPCrealty. I am “re-discovering” myself. I joined the Rotary and Chamber of Commerce to interact with and learn from other small business owners.

NHN: What is your favorite thing in Lake Nona?

GV: Lake Nona is a lifestyle, not just where one lives: the focus on wellness [and] awesome neighbors. My own personal wellness and health story: I used to love to run. My illness made it hard for me to do so, but I have been able to resume it after moving here. I am genuinely happy about being here, and my goal is to serve the community, [which is] part of the reason I joined the Rotary, since their mission is service.

NHN: What are you most excited to have in the Nonahood? What do you think the future is for Lake Nona?

GV: My entire family – wife, two daughters and me – are thriving. I predict Lake Nona serves as a model for smart, sustainable growth for the country.

NHN: If you could tell one thing to someone considering moving here, what would that be?

GV: Your life will change for the better. There will be so many positive changes in your life.

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