Meet fabulous fellow TBOWIT Member,
Renée Pobjecky, POBJECKY & POBJECKY, LLP!
- How long have you been a member of TBOWIT?
I have been a member for 3 years
- What drew you to TBOWIT?
I met Christyna during a “cruise” through Tampa Bay with the Port Authority and the Winter Haven Chamber Leadership Class. I was excited to learn that a group of international women exists in Tampa. I enjoy meeting new professionals and learning from others. TBOWIT has been a great resource and networking channel for me and my firm.
- What do you do for work? What does it involve?
I am an immigration attorney and I love my job. Everyday I help individuals achieve the “American Dream,” by immigrating to the United States. My clients include artists, athletes, and investors. One of my favorite cases, involved dancers with the Alabama Ballet Company. I was in awe of the sacrifices they make on a daily basis to maintain a top physique to dance professionally. My practice has been busy with a recent surge in ICE (Immigration Customs Enforcement) Raids. The firm assists employers during crisis situations, such as an ICE Raid or Audit. Additionally, we focus on providing preventative services to employers in an effort to reduce such risks. Such services include the creation of clear protocols for E-verify compliance and Social Security No-Match letters.
- Where did you grow up?
I was born in Temple, Texas but moved to Polk County, Florida as a young girl since my mom was homesick. I attended the University of Central Florida for my undergraduate degree, but returned to my Texas roots and attended Baylor Law School for my juris doctorate.
- Give us one fun fact that we would not guess about you?
I “surfed” down a volcano in Nicaragua.
- Did you have any mentors in your life?
I would not survive as an immigration attorney without mentors. I still have them. I am blessed that the American Immigration Lawyers Association has a Mentor Directory. When I first started practicing immigration law, I relied on my mentor for a myriad of cases. Not only did she help me, but she also helped my clients. I am always learning, and a mentor is a valuable resource.
- Who inspires you?
Mother Teresa. She was not afraid to venture into the slums to help the poor and sick. Surprisingly, as a nun, she had business savvy and took on the task of creating, managing and growing her own religious order of nuns. She had a hard time accepting “no” and she was not afraid to approach dignitaries for help and donations. Despite her fame, she remained humble.
- What’s one piece of advice for women entering international business or work in general?
Always be receptive and open to opportunities and do not be afraid to choose a road less traveled. Do not hesitate to connect with women in your industry, it only takes a phone call or an email. If given the opportunity of a face-to-face meeting with a mentor, remember to listen. Always send a hand-written thank you note after someone has donated their time and advice.
