Susana Cueva Drumwright, co-founder and CEO of the Vida Valiente Foundation (vidavalientefoundation.org), helps underprivileged students flourish.
Susana Cueva Drumwright is the co-founder and CEO of the Vida Valiente Foundation.
What’s the best life advice you’ve ever received?
My mom said, ‘Always believe in yourself and be brave.’ She reminded me of how worthy and deserving I was of all my opportunities. The Vida Valiente Foundation recently raised over $2.3 million for low-income Stanford undergraduates.
What’s been the most rewarding moment since launching?
When we started the foundation, I imagined being able to uplift incredibly deserving young people in our program through a combination of scholarships, internships and access to incredible leaders. I hadn’t imagined the love and admiration I would feel for each student.
Describe the 2022 vintage of Vida Valiente (vidavalientewinery.com) in three words.
Powerful, elegant and sexy
What’s the one thing people misunderstand about Napa wine culture?
People think of Napa Valley as one place, but its microclimates make it special and diverse. Each site is unique. My husband, Hayes, and I still make a point to go tasting at four new spots every couple of months.
What film shaped the way you see the world?
Frida. Frida Kahlo’s art is raw, thought-provoking and beautiful. She was strong and fierce and not afraid to speak her truth.
What’s your mantra?
Live valiantly.
Photography by: JOHN & JOSEPH PHOTOGRAPHY
