With all the (much-deserved) attention Alzheimer’s disease is receiving lately, what better time to feature Caitlin Johnston, whose not-for-profit organization, The Purple Elephant Campaign, works towards increasing awareness and understanding of the disease across all levels of society…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am the Executive Director of The Purple Elephant Campaign, which is a not-for-profit organization that works towards increasing awareness and understanding of Alzheimer’s disease across all levels of society. Globally, we educate and help spread awareness on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in order to help reduce the stigma and promote preventive measures. We also organize events, develop innovative memory care products, promote brain health and collaborate with organizations worldwide that are committed to their cause.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I founded the organization with a team of young professionals looking to make a difference. My inspiration was my passion for healthy living, memory care, and being able to have the opportunity to educate the population on both.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Both; being able to see the direct impact on caregivers, families and their loved ones.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
My work is my life, although I wouldn’t define it as “work”… more as passion.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Developing a chain of care homes that aim to sustain healthy living in all areas for our aging population.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Failure. It is a positive and a learning curve. Embrace it.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Success to me looks life self-mastery. Then you have the tools to achieve anything. Happiness = Happiness.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Forming high-level partnerships at an early start and being able to maintain those relationships.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Hard work pays off. Follow your passion and you can’t go wrong.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
Toronto has such great places to wine/dine and I’m constantly exploring every option this city has to offer. Try everything once.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
On a running trail, at hot yoga class, or in the gym. Reading and meditation as well. I’m all about brain health.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
I don’t believe that I have travelled enough to name a favourite, but I also feel that I may never have one because I love to explore and discover new places.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
The Naked and Famous – Punching In A Dream
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
A neurosurgeon, if I could have stomached it.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. My godmother, one of the strongest women I have ever known, had lost her life to breast cancer.
What to you is notable?
Balls. No, seriously; having the balls to live out your dreams and desires. What’s life without drive and no passion?
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone fever.
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
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