Born in Belarus and raised in South Florida, Mayor Larisa Svechin embodies the American Dream—one defined by resilience, service, and a fierce dedication to her community. As the first Russian-speaking mayor in the United States and the current leader of Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, her historic election represents far more than a personal milestone—it’s a powerful symbol for immigrant families across the nation.
With a career that spans executive leadership in global advertising and a master’s degree in government extension studies from Harvard University, Svechin brings both strategic savvy and heartfelt vision to her role in public service. Fluent in Russian and English, grounded in her Jewish faith, and devoted to transparent governance, she has quickly become one of the most dynamic figures in American municipal leadership today.
In this exclusive interview with New Times Magazine, Mayor Svechin opens up about her formative years, her transition from the private sector to politics, and the values that continue to shape her leadership.
“You don’t wait to be handed a seat at the table. You build it yourself—and then you invite others in.”
— Mayor Larisa Svechin
Your journey began in Belarus and led you all the way to the mayor’s office in Sunny Isles Beach. What are some of the earliest memories that still influence your leadership today?
I arrived in the U.S. in 1979 and was raised in Miami Beach and Sunny Isles Beach, in a household grounded in hard work, faith, and service. I still remember what Sunny Isles Beach looked like when I was a teen—run-down, with no sidewalks, no police department. That stuck with me. I came back to this community in 2010 with a vision of building a family-friendly city. Those early memories fuel everything I do today—from fighting for public safety to advocating for fiscal responsibility.
When did you first consider entering politics, and what motivated that decision?
The turning point was in 2016, when school overcrowding pushed me to run for commissioner. But the mayoral campaign in 2022 was different—it was about financial resilience, cutting unnecessary spending, and ensuring safety. I ran because I believed this city could be more—safer, smarter, and more efficient. My campaign focused on tangible goals, and my Harvard education in government gave me the tools to make that vision real.
You were a Senior Vice President in global advertising. What was it like transitioning to public office?
In the corporate world, I managed over $300 million and led diverse teams across borders. That experience helped me navigate complex budgets and lead through conflict. But public office came with a new layer: scrutiny. You have to be transparent, you have to listen more, and you have to move quickly while building consensus. I applied business principles—clear communication, strategic focus—and combined them with governance ethics to serve effectively.
“Public service isn’t a career shift—it’s a mindset shift. The people become your boardroom.”
How does your immigrant background help you connect with Sunny Isles Beach’s diverse community, especially Russian-speaking residents?
I understand what it means to build a life in a new country. That empathy helps me connect with residents from all walks of life. I’ve championed programs that directly serve the Russian-speaking population, like our Russian Theater Kids initiative, which gives young people a voice in the arts. I also created resources for Russian-speaking seniors navigating housing costs, chess club, and a girls’ mentorship program that includes Russian speakers—empowering them with real-world tools and confidence.
Your academic journey spans the Fashion Institute of Technology, The New School, and Harvard. How have these experiences shaped your leadership?
Each school added a layer. FIT taught me creativity—how to bring life to public projects.
The New School emphasized ethics, which drives my transparency policies. And Harvard provided the analytical foundation for decision-making in governance. Balancing that with raising four children showed me the discipline and empathy that I bring to city leadership today.
You’ve emphasized transparency. What measures have you implemented to ensure accountability in Sunny Isles Beach?
I operate with an open-door policy—residents can reach me directly via email or even my personal cell phone. I’ve instituted public meetings at varied times so more residents can attend. I’ve also fought for clearer budgets and reduced unnecessary spending. Transparency isn’t just a word—it’s a habit, a system, a promise.
“Transparency is not a campaign slogan—it’s a daily practice.”
Technology plays a big role in your administration. What inspired the use of facial recognition, LPRs, and AI in city safety efforts?
Public safety is non-negotiable, especially in a city where families come to live and vacation. We now have 425+ cameras, license plate readers, red light cameras, and AI-driven facial recognition tools. These technologies help our police respond faster and prevent crime before it happens. We’re also introducing drones to patrol beaches 24/7. Yes, privacy is important—but in a public space, safety must come first. We make sure all systems comply with the law and respect community standards.
As a mother of four, how do you balance family with public office?
With discipline and priorities. My family and faith keeps me grounded. I definably separate my role as Mayor and as a wife and mother, so I can also be present for my kids. I want them to see that leadership isn’t about being in the spotlight—it’s about serving others with integrity. I hope they learn that hard work and faith can shape the world around them.
Looking ahead, what kind of legacy do you hope to leave?
I want to be remembered not just as a mayor, but as someone who transformed how people see leadership—especially for immigrants, women, and working parents. I’ve cut spending, boosted safety, and built programs that bring communities together. That’s my blueprint: governance that is effective, ethical, and inclusive.
“My legacy won’t be written on a plaque. It will live in safer streets, empowered girls, and stronger families.”
What advice do you have for young immigrants—especially women—aspiring to enter public service?
Don’t wait for permission. Get involved—volunteer, serve on a board, speak up. Don’t expect to be handed a seat at the table. Build your own, brick by brick. Study, work hard, and never underestimate the power of conviction. People respect grit. Show up, speak up, and don’t back down.
“Leadership doesn’t start with a title. It starts when you decide to show up—for others, and for yourself.”
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Final Word from the Publisher
Mayor Larisa Svechin isn’t just a leader—she’s a reminder that American democracy still has room for visionaries who work hard, think big, and serve boldly. Her voice matters. And thanks to her, so do ours.
