Marina Rabinek’s leadership journey represents the resilience, innovation, and community-building spirit that transforms service into a legacy of empowerment for military women. As the Founder and President of the Military Women’s Collective (MWC), Marina has dedicated herself to creating a community where women veterans can find tailored resources and support for their unique experiences. Her story is one of triumph over adversity, a deep commitment to service, and a vision for building a lasting legacy of leadership and connection among military women.
A Foundation of Strength and Purpose
Marina’s path to leadership was shaped in the U.S. Navy, where she discovered the importance of discipline, resilience, and the strength that comes from serving a cause larger than oneself. The structured, high-pressure environment of the Navy not only enhanced her ability to lead, but also instilled a deep sense of duty and responsibility. “My time in the Navy was transformative,” Marina reflects. “It wasn’t just about completing the mission—it was about supporting my team and finding meaning in every role I held.” While she takes pride in her professional achievements, it’s the human connections that stand out most to her. The moments of mentoring a young service member or supporting her team through challenges left an indelible mark, shaping her into a leader with a heart for service.
Her journey through the U.S. Navy not only shaped her personal values, but also ignited a passion for supporting and empowering women veterans. In Marina’s own words, her military service taught her discipline, perseverance, and the critical importance of supporting others, all of which became the cornerstone of her leadership. After transitioning out of the military, Marina faced challenges that many veterans know too well—feelings of isolation, depression, and a struggle to find her footing in civilian life. Losing a close friend to suicide in 2020 served as a wake-up call, pushing her to reconnect with her “tribe” of women veterans and transform her pain into purpose. This drive led to the creation of the Military Women’s Collective (MWC), a nonprofit organization focused on advocating for women veterans and addressing critical issues such as mental health, career transitions, and the epidemic of veteran suicide. For Marina, MWC represents more than a professional endeavor, it’s a deeply personal mission rooted in her commitment to saving lives and nurturing connection.
Building a Community of Empowerment
Through MWC, Marina has worked tirelessly to create a space where women veterans feel seen, valued, and supported. The organization addresses systemic challenges while celebrating the unique strengths of its members. Whether connecting women to essential resources, offering mentorship or fostering a sense of belonging, MWC is a lifeline for many who might otherwise feel adrift. Marina’s work is also deeply informed by her roles as a mentor for organizations like WoVeN. These experiences have not only highlighted the challenges veterans face, but also the incredible growth and transformation that can occur when someone feels supported and understood. “I’ve seen firsthand how mentorship can change lives,” Marina shares. “Watching mentees gain confidence, build networks, and thrive motivates me to keep going, even on the toughest days.”
One of Marina’s most transformative experiences came through her participation in the Women Veterans Leadership Program (WVLP). The program provided her with new perspectives, tools, and a powerful network of like-minded women leaders. “The WVLP helped me reconnect with my identity as a woman veteran,” she explains. “It reinforced the value of shared experiences and gave me the confidence to lead with authenticity and empathy.” The program also deepened her commitment to mentoring others. As a self-proclaimed “super connector,” Marina has made it her mission to bridge gaps for women veterans, helping them access the resources and support they need to succeed. “I want to mentor more women veterans and help them find their voices,” she says.
Why the Women Veterans Leadership Program Matters
Marina’s leadership journey emphasizes the importance of the WVLP, which address the distinct experiences of women veterans. This program goes beyond leadership training—it creates spaces for women to heal, grow, and thrive as leaders in their communities. For Marina, the WVLP has been a catalyst, enabling her to expand her advocacy efforts and mentor others with renewed energy. Looking forward, Marina plans to amplify her voice by championing issues like mental health advocacy on larger platforms and mentoring the next generation of women leaders.
“The WVLP doesn’t just help individuals—it creates a ripple effect of empowerment,” Marina emphasizes. “Every woman who finds her strength through this program goes on to inspire others, creating a legacy of resilience and leadership.”
In her path from Navy sailor to nonprofit leader, Marina Rabinek has shown the world what it means to step into greatness. Her work continues to inspire, uplift and transform, proving that the greatest leaders are those who serve others with passion and purpose. For women veterans considering the WVLP, Marina’s message is clear, “Step into this opportunity. The WVLP is more than a program—it’s a transformative journey where you’ll find your voice, build a strong network, and grow as a leader.” Through her work with MWC and her involvement in the WVLP, Marina continues to inspire and uplift, proving that when women veterans lead, they create a legacy of strength, resilience, and impact that reverberates across communities.
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About Beneath the Service
Beneath the Service is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in Washington, D.C., dedicated to building upon the exceptional qualities of military veterans and their families in their professional and personal reintegration. Beneath the Service focuses on the psychological components of social reintegration, helping veterans embrace identity, ignite purpose, and strengthen connections with their communities. Beneath the Service is committed to creating a lasting legacy of leadership and community impact by helping veterans and their families honor their past while shaping their future.
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Email: press@beneaththeservice.org
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