Rennea Couttenye
What country are you from?
Venezuela/ United States
What drew you to the MEV and what excites you about living in this community?
I've been preparing for several years now to live in an intergenerational community with similar values to mine. When I read/saw your posts, I realized this may be exactly what I'm looking for. It came as a surprise: I was traveling and in Valencia at the time when my friend shared your Instagram post with me. Something like stars aligning or the universe conspiring to offer me this opportunity. I promptly went to visit the site and met Alisa. Wonderful!. But, as you can see from my presentation to my family dated 2023, I have been thinking of this for a while: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bYz_YaZq0LflmcnkY6NFeIVcRVSIGDL0/view?usp=sharing
Who are you as a person? (personality, values, etc.)
Hello, chicos y chicas of the MEV. I'm happy to introduce myself and be part of this community. I'm Rennea, and I've been told I'm member 115, woo-hoo!
According to a personality test, I'm a Protagonist (ENFJ-A)—someone who thrives on connection, creativity, and service. While I cherish my privacy and alone time, I also deeply love being part of a family and a community.
I enjoy giving, sharing my talents, and creating meaningful bonds. People, music, dancing, theater, philosophical conversations, and even a good game bring me joy. At the same time, I regenerate through solitude—meditating, writing, drawing, caring for my garden, walking in nature, swimming in rivers, lakes, or the ocean —and I hope to find a rock climbing area nearby.
My core values are curiosity, playfulness, respect, creativity, honesty, and freedom—all of which I see reflected beautifully in the guiding principles of this group. Growing up as the oldest of six siblings instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility, and later raising three amazing children who are now out in the world with their own families has been one of my greatest joys.
Now, as I often tell my friends, this is my time to play. I'm working on projects that excite me—a language education program for children and a documentary film about the people, instruments, and music of Venezuela, where I return every year to visit.
I look forward to sharing, learning, and co-creating with all of you—building community through sustainability, collaboration, and well-being, while also celebrating the creativity and joy of life together.
Tell us about yourself and/or your family—your interests, hobbies, occupation, and passions.
I have three kids and four grandkids who do not live with me, but will be visiting the MEV. As for me, I travel frequently to stay in touch with them, and when I'm home, I enjoy activities such as hiking, climbing, gardening, and swimming. I sing in a band, and I'll have to find a new group here in Spain.
In San Francisco, CA, my home for over 40 years, I host house concerts where I invite friends to share food and wine while listening to world music. Since I live in the city, I attend lecture series, opera, and concerts, and search for new and interesting happenings in town. These activities may change due to being farther away from a city, but we can still bring some interesting activities to our community.
I work remotely at my own company, Bilingual Kids Lab, with colleagues in Argentina, Venezuela and Colombia. It will work out all right if we make slight adjustments to our schedules.
What will be your role in the community? (e.g., sustainability projects, community gatherings, permaculture, holistic wellness, creative workshops, education, etc.)
Over the past few years, I’ve been diving into Sistema B, the Latin American branch of B Lab, which works to transform the global economy for the good of people, communities, and the planet. I care deeply about sustainability and education, and I love designing curriculum and programs for kids that spark curiosity and growth.
Beyond my professional interests, I’m passionate about communication and creating spaces where people feel at home. In San Francisco, I keep my own edible garden, and I’ve always enjoyed bringing warmth and life into the places I live. When I’m not working or gardening, you’ll most likely find me surrounded by libraries, music, and books—three of my favorite things.
What does your dream community look like? Dream day in the MEV?
"For me, a dream community is one where our values and purpose are clear. When we share a well-defined vision, it becomes our North Star—something that helps us stay aligned and minimize conflicts, while still leaving room for flexibility since life is always changing.
In practice, a day in my life within the community feels simple and balanced. I might start the day with a swim, meditation, and breakfast at home before settling into work. Afternoons and evenings are open for connection—whether that’s meeting with others, making music, tending the garden, playing with children, or joining a meeting to sort out community matters. Some days are quieter, spent reading, watching a movie, or sharing a glass of wine with a friend. We also find joy in working together through fun “work parties,” or stepping outside our daily routines to go on field trips."
Any links you'd like to share of yourself? socials, website, etc. (optional)
Instagram @rennea
Facebook: Rennea Couttenye