Marina Bobrowsky on Housing, Hope, and the Power of Community
In a world often divided between business and service, Marina Bobrowsky stands unapologetically at the intersection. As a trusted real estate agent with Windermere and the founder & CEO of SCAEPE—a nonprofit dedicated to economic and political empowerment—Marina brings heart, hustle, and humanity to every facet of her work. Whether she’s helping a family find their first home or organizing community events in West Sacramento, her mission remains the same: build spaces where people feel seen, supported, and inspired.
In this exclusive interview with New Times Magazine, Publisher Sergey Ivannikov sits down with Marina to explore how one woman’s calling to serve has become a bridge between two worlds—and a catalyst for lasting change.
“At the Core of It All—People”
Sergey Ivannikov: Marina, your work spans both real estate and community advocacy. What drives your passion for serving people in these two unique but connected spaces?
Marina Bobrowsky: At the heart of both real estate and advocacy is a deep desire to help people find stability, opportunity, and a sense of belonging. In real estate, I walk alongside families during one of the most significant milestones of their lives—buying or selling a home. In advocacy, I work to make sure the systems surrounding those families are just and inclusive. What connects these worlds for me is people. I’m passionate about being a bridge, helping others not only envision a better future but actually take steps toward it.
Lessons from the Field
Sergey: How has your experience in real estate influenced your leadership at SCAEPE—and vice versa?
Marina: Real estate has taught me to listen deeply. Every client comes with unique stories, hopes, and concerns. At SCAEPE, I lead with that same mindset—listening first. On the flip side, my nonprofit work has sharpened my strategic thinking and patience, which helps me serve my clients more meaningfully. Both roles have made me more empathetic and intentional.
A Voice for the Slavic-American Community
Sergey: As CEO of a nonprofit focused on economic and political empowerment, what do you see as the most urgent needs facing the Slavic-American community?
Marina: Representation and access. Too many in our community feel invisible within larger systems. We need stronger civic engagement, more language-accessible resources, and economic pathways that reflect our community’s talents and aspirations. Most importantly, we need to empower the next generation—to lead with pride in their identity and purpose in their work.
“At the Core of It All—People”
Sergey Ivannikov: Marina, your work spans both real estate and community advocacy. What drives your passion for serving people in these two unique but connected spaces?
Marina Bobrowsky: At the heart of both real estate and advocacy is a deep desire to help people find stability, opportunity, and a sense of belonging. In real estate, I walk alongside families during one of the most significant milestones of their lives—buying or selling a home. In advocacy, I work to make sure the systems surrounding those families are just and inclusive. What connects these worlds for me is people. I’m passionate about being a bridge, helping others not only envision a better future but actually take steps toward it.
Lessons from the Field
Sergey: How has your experience in real estate influenced your leadership at SCAEPE—and vice versa?
Marina: Real estate has taught me to listen deeply. Every client comes with unique stories, hopes, and concerns. At SCAEPE, I lead with that same mindset—listening first. On the flip side, my nonprofit work has sharpened my strategic thinking and patience, which helps me serve my clients more meaningfully. Both roles have made me more empathetic and intentional.
A Voice for the Slavic-American Community
Sergey: As CEO of a nonprofit focused on economic and political empowerment, what do you see as the most urgent needs facing the Slavic-American community?
Marina: Representation and access. Too many in our community feel invisible within larger systems. We need stronger civic engagement, more language-accessible resources, and economic pathways that reflect our community’s talents and aspirations. Most importantly, we need to empower the next generation—to lead with pride in their identity and purpose in their work.
“If we don’t tell our story, someone else will—and they may not get it right.”
The Power of a Yard Sale
Sergey: The annual yard sale is one of your signature events. What inspired you to create it?
Marina: This is 4th annual event that started with a simple idea — bringing people together. I wanted to create a space where neighbors could share not just items, but also stories, smiles, and friendship. Over time, the yard sale has become a cherished tradition. It’s not just about things — it’s about presence, support, and showing up for one another.
Speaking of the upcoming event in West Sacramento: after the morning sale, which will take place on Saturday, June 7th, from 7:30 a.m. to noon, I invite all participants and guests to join us for a community celebration. It’s an informal gathering with the city’s mayor, representatives of the police department, local government services, and leading regional organizations.
From 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., attendees will have the chance to meet the inspiring team from MISI Community Solutions, representatives from Banner Bank, real estate agents from Windermere Real Estate and their financial partners, as well as our longstanding media partner — the team at Russian American Media.
In addition to helpful resources, we’re offering fun for the whole family: bounce houses, face painting for kids, prizes and giveaways from sponsors, and a delicious pilaf dish prepared by the popular Uzbek restaurant, Karavan. And best of all — it’s completely free for all our guests.
Built on Integrity
Sergey: Windermere emphasizes service and integrity. How do those values align with your work?
Marina: They’re non-negotiables for me. Integrity means doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Service means leading with others in mind. Whether I’m finalizing a deal or advocating at City Hall, those principles guide me.
Moments That Matter
Sergey: Can you share a moment that reaffirmed your commitment to your mission?
Marina: There was a young immigrant family who never thought homeownership was possible. We worked through every step together, and when they received the keys, we cried together. It reminded me that this work is about more than a house—it’s about dignity and dreams.
Sergey: The annual yard sale is one of your signature events. What inspired you to create it?
Marina: This is 4th annual event that started with a simple idea — bringing people together. I wanted to create a space where neighbors could share not just items, but also stories, smiles, and friendship. Over time, the yard sale has become a cherished tradition. It’s not just about things — it’s about presence, support, and showing up for one another.
Speaking of the upcoming event in West Sacramento: after the morning sale, which will take place on Saturday, June 7th, from 7:30 a.m. to noon, I invite all participants and guests to join us for a community celebration. It’s an informal gathering with the city’s mayor, representatives of the police department, local government services, and leading regional organizations.
From 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., attendees will have the chance to meet the inspiring team from MISI Community Solutions, representatives from Banner Bank, real estate agents from Windermere Real Estate and their financial partners, as well as our longstanding media partner — the team at Russian American Media.
In addition to helpful resources, we’re offering fun for the whole family: bounce houses, face painting for kids, prizes and giveaways from sponsors, and a delicious pilaf dish prepared by the popular Uzbek restaurant, Karavan. And best of all — it’s completely free for all our guests.
Built on Integrity
Sergey: Windermere emphasizes service and integrity. How do those values align with your work?
Marina: They’re non-negotiables for me. Integrity means doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Service means leading with others in mind. Whether I’m finalizing a deal or advocating at City Hall, those principles guide me.
Moments That Matter
Sergey: Can you share a moment that reaffirmed your commitment to your mission?
Marina: There was a young immigrant family who never thought homeownership was possible. We worked through every step together, and when they received the keys, we cried together. It reminded me that this work is about more than a house—it’s about dignity and dreams.
“That moment wasn’t just a closing—it was an opening. A beginning.”
Community as a Healing Force
Sergey: What role do events like your yard sale play in community resilience?
Marina: They’re vital. In uncertain times, these gatherings become spaces of hope. They break down walls, start conversations, and remind us that we’re in this together. Resilience isn’t built in isolation—it grows from connection.
Walking the Tightrope
Sergey: What challenges have you faced balancing entrepreneurship and nonprofit leadership?
Marina: Time. There’s never enough of it. But I’ve learned to lead with purpose, delegate when needed, and protect my peace. My faith, my family, and the community I serve keep me grounded and focused.
Heritage and Heart
Sergey: Tell us a bit about your own background. How has it shaped your mission?
Marina: I come from a line of strong, resilient people. My Slavic heritage taught me the value of hard work, generosity, and perseverance. It also taught me the importance of lifting others as you climb. My mission is to honor that legacy.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Sergey: If you could offer three pieces of advice to future leaders, what would they be?
Marina:
Sergey: What role do events like your yard sale play in community resilience?
Marina: They’re vital. In uncertain times, these gatherings become spaces of hope. They break down walls, start conversations, and remind us that we’re in this together. Resilience isn’t built in isolation—it grows from connection.
Walking the Tightrope
Sergey: What challenges have you faced balancing entrepreneurship and nonprofit leadership?
Marina: Time. There’s never enough of it. But I’ve learned to lead with purpose, delegate when needed, and protect my peace. My faith, my family, and the community I serve keep me grounded and focused.
Heritage and Heart
Sergey: Tell us a bit about your own background. How has it shaped your mission?
Marina: I come from a line of strong, resilient people. My Slavic heritage taught me the value of hard work, generosity, and perseverance. It also taught me the importance of lifting others as you climb. My mission is to honor that legacy.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Sergey: If you could offer three pieces of advice to future leaders, what would they be?
Marina:
- Lead with empathy—people won’t remember your title, but they’ll remember how you made them feel.
- Stay curious—never stop learning from those around you.
- Be bold—especially when standing up for others or challenging the status quo.
Contact Marina Bobrowsky:
Founder & CEO of SCAEPE 501(c)3
Real Estate Agent at Windermere
Phone: (916) 525-5134