Ramola Ramesh Motwani is the Chairwoman of Merrimac Ventures, a Fort Lauderdale–based real estate investment, development, and management firm specializing in hospitality and mixed-use projects. Working alongside her sons, Nitin and Dev, she leads the company’s strategic vision and oversees development initiatives spanning hospitality, residential, retail, and commercial sectors. Under her leadership, Merrimac Ventures has grown from a regional enterprise into a nationally recognized developer, with more than 18 projects valued at over $3 billion and a future development pipeline exceeding $3.7 billion.
Motwani’s journey reflects resilience and entrepreneurial determination. Following the passing of her husband and business partner, Ramesh “Bob” Motwani, she successfully preserved and expanded the family’s real estate portfolio, playing a pivotal role in transforming Fort Lauderdale Beach into a premier luxury destination. Her developments include landmark projects such as the Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Fort Lauderdale, Miami Worldcenter, and Waldorf Astoria Pompano Beach.
Deeply committed to education and community impact, Motwani founded The Motwani Family Academy for Hospitality and Tourism Management at Broward College, supporting scholarships, mentorships, and career pathways for future hospitality leaders. An active civic leader, she has served on numerous public, nonprofit, and industry boards and has received extensive recognition for her contributions to business, philanthropy, and community development, including the prestigious Horatio Alger Award and Forbes’ “50 Over 50” honor.
