About Us

The objective of the Club is to cultivate social and cultural relationships among Americans, French and other nationals living on or visiting the French Riviera. We preserve and share traditions, language and culture and promote a continuing exchange of friendship and understanding between organizations of public interest with similar goals or purposes. We honor the French Riviera communities by using local resources and supporting local businesses.

The American Club’s goals rest on the foundation of shared values, including friendship, hospitality and civility in all interactions. It is a membership Club open to all nationalities.

OFFICERS 2025

President – Timothy Molyneux

Timothy Molyneux is a dual Canadian and Irish national residing in the Var. For the last 30 years he has been the Director of Teldata Consulting Ltd. - an International Telecommunications and Data Consultancy organization. In addition to being President of the American Club of the Riviera, he is a member of the Steering Committee for the Association of American Clubs, and an Honorary member of the Riviera Business Club. Timothy is also a member of the Lions Club of Brignoles - St. Maximin acting as President English Communications and Marketing for Lions Club International. His hobbies include charitable works, swimming, skiing, biking, computers, martial arts and amateur radio. His French amateur radio call sign is F4WBS.
president@americanclubriviera.com

Vice President - Shae Clements

Shae was born and raised in New Orleans, LA and has dual citizenship with the United States and Germany. She settled on the French Riviera in October of 2020, after living in several locations throughout America and Asia. She was the CEO of Shae’s Fine Finishes, offering painted wall finishes, murals, staging, and design. Shae has found it important throughout her life to volunteer her time organizing events as the President of The ConocoPhillips Family Network, The Whatcom Children’s Museum, Women Helping Others, as well as volunteering countless hours at animal shelters. She created animal welfare workshops for students within the International School in Malaysia where her daughters attended. Shae enjoys tennis and padel in her free time, acting with the Drama Group of Monaco and traveling. vicepresident@americanclubriviera.com

Treasurer - Ronald Ménage-Bianay

Born and raised in Guadeloupe, Ronald Ménage-Bianay embarked on an international journey after completing high school in France. Following his studies in Business and Accounting in Rouen, he served as an Accounting teacher in French Guiana.

He then embarked on a successful career in finance, holding senior roles at Armco, DHL, and Deutsche Post. His career spanned international assignments, culminating in his position as Global Finance Vice President.

After a fulfilling career, Ronald retired to the French Riviera in 2021. He remains active in the community, volunteering for non-profit organizations that support entrepreneurs. He enjoys the Riviera's beauty, indulging in outdoor activities like hiking and beach days, and actively participates in local events, including those organized by the American Club of the Riviera.  treasurer@americanclubriviera.com

Interim Secretary - Lizabeth Nicol

Lizabeth spent her childhood in Cleveland, Ohio, and came to France in 1972, as a young graduate student.  She decided to remain in Paris and went on to pursue an international career in training and communications in such diverse sectors as education, energy, hospitality/entertainment and gastronomy.  Her professional experience includes Maître de Conférence at L’Ecole Nationale d’Administration (ENA),  Project Manager at TOTAL opening international training centers (Abu Dhabi, Cameroon, China, and Indonesia), HR & Communications Manager at EuroDisney as part of the Executive Opening Management Team for the Resort Hotels and Restaurants, and  Director of Le Cordon Bleu, Paris L’Ecole de Cuisine.

She has been an active member of several Franco-American associations. She was President of The American Institute of Wine & Food, French Chapter and served on the Board of Directors of the International Association of Culinary Professionals. She has degrees in Political Science and Fine Arts from Syracuse University. Her interests include food & wine, film, theater, music, art/museums, and travel.

GOVERNORS 2025

Membership Coordinator & Communications - Katrina Donaldson

Katrina was born in the UK and commenced Her career in the Hairdressing industry in Mayfair London. Katrina began working for large American companies within stores learning the business then worked for a couple of British companies around the UK with managing their chain of salons. Eventually she owned her own company with a small chain of salons. Today, retired, She lives in the Var amongst the vineyards with her husband, dogs and cats. news@americanclubriviera.com

Membership Secretary & Marketing Consultant - Ameena Gorton

Ameena Gorton is an International Marketing Consultant who has started businesses in the Middle East and France. With over 20 years of international marketing experience, she’s worked with multinational companies, government agencies, NGOs, small business and solopreneurs. Ameena is a citizen of the world, she’s half English, half Egyptian, born in Dubai. She has a Masters in Marketing, an Honors Degree in History of Modern Art and a background in Fine Art. A true francophile, she’s been based in a small Provençal village for the last 16 years. website@americanclubriviera.com

Karine Sanche

Karine was born and raised in Lorraine, France and after her studies in Strasbourg, She received a job opportunity in Atlanta, GA. What was supposed to be an 18 month contract turned into a 25 year journey taking her to New York, Surrey (England) and most recently California. Karine has dual French American citizenship.

She moved to Mougins in April 2021 and joined the American Club of the Riviera soon after that. She spends her time hiking, exploring the area, as well as going to concerts and museums. She also enjoys gardening, cooking, hosting friends and family and recently Karine picked up dance classes, which she says she should have done a lot sooner! 

Nora Bonavera

Nora Bonavera was born and raised in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where she worked as a model for many years. She lived with her husband in Monaco and Paris, eventually moving to South Africa in 1983, where she studied Italian and linguistics at UNISA. Her painting career began after completing art courses at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. Over the years, several successful solo (The Wedgwood Gallery) and group exhibitions followed. After her children left home, she divided her time between Cape Town, Lake Como and Monaco.

She eventually settled in Monaco, where she loved the international and unique atmosphere combined with the cheerful presence of sunlight. Light, happiness, movement, emotions, soul channels and universal influences all play a role in her art work, which radiates vibrancy with its bright colours.

Joanne Napoli

Joanne Napoli's life is a vibrant tapestry woven with international experiences and a deep appreciation for her French and Italian heritage. Born in Washington D.C. and raised in the Northeast, early travels ignited a lifelong passion for diverse cultures. Degrees from Boston University and the University of Nice led to a distinguished career in finance with the French Embassy and Societe Generale.

After 26 years in the financial world, Joanne returned to Nice, embracing a new chapter. She now thrives in the world of real estate while indulging her passions: travel, art, and the culinary delights of the Riviera. A proud Niçoise, she actively promotes the region's rich traditions.

Recently, Joanne's entrepreneurial spirit blossomed. She transforms old objects into unique plant pots, fostering recycling and supporting local plant producers. This venture reflects her commitment to sustainability and enriching the lives of those around her.

Fabricio Carminati

Born in Caracas to Italian parents, Fabricio Carminati's career has spanned the globe. After graduating from the prestigious Cornell-Essec program, he honed his skills in hospitality with InterContinental Hotels and in real estate.

Drawing on this diverse experience, Fabricio founded FRH - French Riviera House Hunting. As CEO, he and his team provide an innovative service, prioritizing the needs and interests of expats seeking properties.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Fabricio is a passionate artist. He has written and performed his own one-man show and now delights in creating captivating videos that showcase the beauty and allure of the French Riviera, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with a wider audience.

AMERICAN CLUB OF THE RIVIERA – OFFICIAL ADDRESS:

C/o Mr J. Jallad
“Rève d’Or”
111 boulevard Leader
06150 Cannes – La Bocca
France