Sarasota isn't just for retirees. The area continually proves to be a hub for the best and the brightest talents in everything from dance to finance—all under the age of 30. In an ongoing series throughout the year (and beyond), SRQ highlights under-30's who are doing big things, both in their own careers and within the community. 

Big Dreamer

Dino Perakis, 30
Assistant State Attorney, 12th Judicial Circuit, Florida

Quick Stats

  • Formerly an Associate Attorney at Vukelja Law.
  • Served as a Judicial Intern at the US District Court in Jacksonville.
  • Former Political Research Analyst at LobbyTools.

Your nickname: I was raised in a traditional “big fat Greek family” and named after my grandfather—he was Dino and I was Little Dino, which in Greek is Dinaki. Despite being 29 years old, I remain “Dinaki” to my aunt, sister and dad. Your brand tagline/personal philosophy in 7 words or less: Always follow through and never ever quit. Would you rather be an inventor or a leader? If effective these are one in the same, so both. An effective leader must be an inventor—able to find creative solutions to problems. Likewise, an effective inventor must be a leader—able to break from the mold, challenging established ideas and getting other people to believe in your ideas.   Share your biggest ah-ha moment: The day I learned to tie my shoes—I haven’t looked back since. Also, I won the first time I tried a case by myself. I remember sitting in the courtroom after everyone left and thinking how much I enjoyed my job. Tell us about a time when things felt helpless but you knew you could pull through: All of the time. I remind myself any challenge can be overcome by doing the right thing, one step at a time. As an assistant state attorney, every single day I face challenges affecting people’s lives. Being in a situation where a decision rests completely on your shoulders is so empowering and having that experience lets me know I can pull through anything. How has Sarasota failed Millennials? Millennials failing? No such thing. We are the most fortunate generation in history as far as I know. That’s not without saying there is always room for improvement. In Sarasota, we should bring in and support industries that generate high levels of revenue and are attractive to more young professionals, as this will increase investment in the area and contribute to growth. The community-building process has no finish line. Your heart goes out to: The Salvation Army. Specifically those involved in offering substance abuse treatment for those who cannot afford residential treatment. Your most recent social media post? On Facebook, I checked in at the Field Club for SPARCC’s Annual Men of Courage breakfast which aims to bring awareness to and prevent domestic violence. In Sarasota-Bradenton, we do too much_______ and too little ________: In Sarasota-Bradenton, we have too many rush hours and too few happy hours.  What’s next? I see myself serving the Sarasota community as an assistant state attorney, dedicated to ensuring public safety and justice for my neighbors.

Rock ‘n’ Roller

Karlenn Peluso, 29

Owner/Designer, American Fox

Quick Stats

  • Graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.
  • Launched American Fox in 2010.
  • Hosted pop-up shops at On Trend Boutique and T. Georgiano’s.
  • Featured in Elle and Vogue magazines in 2016.

Your nickname: Karr Your brand tagline/personal philosophy in 7 words or less:  American cool.  Would you rather be an inventor or a leader? Leader. Share your biggest ah-ha moment: I always hated shopping in malls, so I decided to make my own clothes and create my own style. Tell us about a time when things felt helpless but you knew you could pull through: Meeting all the wrong people in the industry—people who led me down the wrong paths. I’d get discouraged thinking it would never go how I wanted or dreamed of. Then it all changes and the more I put myself out there, the less wrong people were around and I started meeting all the right ones.  How has Sarasota failed Millennials? This is a touchy subject. There is a lack of careers here—maybe more jobs available than actual careers. It’s very hard for Millennials to grow and be successful adults working at dead-end jobs. Your heart goes out to: Tiny Loving Canines.  Your most recent social media post? On @shopamericanfox I recently posted behind-the-scenes photos of a video shoot we did with new vintage military jackets and Replay vintage sunglasses shot by McFadden Creative. All the models are friends who I love working with.  In Sarasota-Bradenton, we do too much_______ and too little ________: Too much driving and too little walking.  What’s next? American Fox went live on Dollskill.com in March, which is a dream come true, and I am now officially doing wholesale orders.