Rene Shotwell is the Executive Director and one of the founders of Axis Mundi Global, a nonprofit eco-development initiative rooted in Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. A graduate of Chico State University with a degree in Business Administration, Rene brings a diverse background in leadership, project management, and hands-on building experience.
He began his career as a Project Manager and Director in the tradeshow and conferences industry, overseeing complex operations and large-scale events. Later, his career shifted into construction and remodeling, where he currently works as a self-employed contractor specializing in handyman services, remodels, and house flipping.
Rene’s first encounter with the land in Costa Rica was a life-changing experience—a moment that felt like a calling. What began as an opportunity to build became a mission: a worthy cause to pour his energy into, and a chance to create a legacy.
Through Axis Mundi Global, Rene and his partners are shaping a living model of sustainability, community, and conservation. While Costa Rica is the starting point, the vision extends far beyond—Axis Mundi isn’t just Costa Rica; it’s for the world. Every project seeks to honor the cultural background and language of its location, ensuring development is not only sustainable but also respectful, authentic, and inclusive. In Costa Rica, that means embracing the pura vida spirit, the Spanish language, and the traditions of the Osa Peninsula.
At the heart of his motivation is a belief in humanity’s potential to rise above hate and greed, finding a deeper cosmic connection between people and their maker. These values inspire his approach to building community through intention: living in harmony with nature, with one another, and with a higher purpose.
Outside of his professional life, Rene is deeply family-oriented and embraces the pura vida lifestyle. He enjoys playing ukulele, drums, guitar, and singing, as well as almost every kind of outdoor activity—from adventure sports to exploring nature. A lover of adventure, mystery, and fantasy, Rene lives with a mindset of continual learning—whether practicing Spanish, exploring new ideas, or pushing himself toward growth. His current goal: to see all phases of the Costa Rica Project completed, bringing the full vision of Axis Mundi to life.
With roots spanning Hawai‘i, California, Washington, Alaska, and beyond, Rene carries a perspective shaped by diverse landscapes and communities. At Axis Mundi, he blends entrepreneurial skills, practical building knowledge, and global vision to help transform land into regenerative communities that unite agriculture, conservation, wellness, and cultural exchange.
