Svetlana Elgart’s Professional Journey: A Lifelong Mission of Wellness, Education, and Empowerment

Svetlana Elgart, born in Odesa, Ukraine, has carved a remarkable path as a Ukrainian-American entrepreneur, educator, and wellness advocate. Her professional journey is a testament to her vision, resilience, and deep commitment to creating meaningful change in the lives of children and families through health and nutrition education.
After immigrating to the United States as a young girl in 1978, Svetlana’s formative years were steeped in cultural values that prioritized homemade meals, family wellness, and personal development. These early influences remained with her as she pursued her academic goals, earning an Associate of Science degree in Business and Marketing from the University of North Texas in 1987. Although she initially followed a more traditional business path, her passion for health and nutrition began to take center stage as she entered her 30s and 40s, what many would consider her professional prime.
Svetlana made a pivotal shift in her career when she enrolled in Bauman College’s Holistic Nutrition and Culinary Arts program, where she became a certified Nutrition Consultant. This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter focused on combining education, wellness, and culinary skills. Drawing from her own experiences as a mother of three, Svetlana recognized the critical gaps in school systems, particularly the lack of comprehensive health and nutrition education.
Determined to address these issues, she began designing community-based programs that supported academic and personal growth. Among her earliest ventures were Kids Homework Club, an after-school initiative that supported students’ academic needs, and Strings of Art, a vibrant art center that nurtured creativity in young children. These early projects were instrumental in helping Svetlana develop a unique model that integrated academic enrichment with hands-on learning.
In 2011, leveraging years of experience and growing expertise in wellness and nutrition, Svetlana launched Rainbow Chefs. This program uniquely blended culinary education with health and wellness principles. Focused on children and youth, Rainbow Chefs introduced participants to the science of nutrition, the importance of healthy food choices, and the joy of cooking all in an engaging and interactive environment.
Rainbow Chefs gained momentum and eventually evolved into Rainbow Chefs Academy (RCA) in 2020. As CEO and Founder, Svetlana expanded the program to include a structured, curriculum-based model designed for K-12 education. RCA teaches students critical life skills, promotes lifelong healthy habits, and provides a comprehensive understanding of nutrition and wellness through the lens of culinary arts. The academy has reached over 45,000 students and established partnerships with schools, cities, and educational institutions to address pressing public health challenges such as childhood obesity and diabetes. RCA received WASC accreditation in 2025, a significant milestone that strengthened the brand’s recognition and impact.
Svetlana’s approach to education is deeply rooted in empowerment. Her programs not only teach children how to prepare nutritious meals but also instill confidence, independence, and awareness. RCA’s lesson plans incorporate the preparation of healthy recipes in every class, reinforcing practical knowledge and promoting healthy lifestyles from a young age.
In addition to running a growing academy, Svetlana has expanded her impact through media and publishing. Her first book, Cooking Healthy with Rainbow Chefs: Cookbook for Kids, is set to be released in July 2024, offering families fun, easy recipes that reinforce healthy habits. She is also developing her first children’s book series, Kale the Cupboard Monster, to be published in April 2025. These works aim to extend her message to even younger audiences in engaging and accessible ways.
Now in her late 50s, Svetlana Elgart continues to innovate and lead with purpose. Her professional journey since reaching her prime has been defined by her dedication to transforming the way children and communities understand health, nutrition, and well-being. Through the continued success of Rainbow Chefs Academy and her expanding body of work, Svetlana exemplifies what it means to build a legacy rooted in education, compassion, and lasting social impact.