Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is international DJ Jojo Flores, a purveyor of quality beats and eats whose expertise extends far beyond the decks. Here’s what inspired him on his career path and where he sees himself in five years…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
A purveyor of quality beats and eats: International DJ, Co-founder and Owner of club Peopl, Junior restaurant, and Gotsoul Records.
What was the inspiration for this career route?
Music. Ever since I was young, music has played an important role in my life, from being a teenage B-Boy breakdancer to DJ.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis?
Aside from enjoying my fresh brewed coffee from Buck15 (product placement), the best part is finding creative ways to promote and connect my brands on all social networks. The most challenging part? Not enough hours in a day.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Most likely starting a business (club, restaurant or Cafe) in Toronto. It’s my second home. I’m really digging the vibe of that city, and I receive a lot of love and support from the locals. I’ve witnessed Toronto transform firsthand from the late 80s to the present. It went from bland to very exciting.
What does success look like to you?
Balance between work & play.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
My first international booking in Bordeaux, France back in the late 90s. I’ve been travelling the world ever since.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Being an Anglophone in Montreal.
I started focusing on building my brand in Toronto and NYC.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Don’t be afraid to take chances. I tell my son every day before dropping him off to school, “Be a leader, don’t be a follower.”
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
Too many to name just one. I like Serpent. Mike Mercuri and Mark Tan are amazing chefs, not to mention fantastic individuals. I love visiting super chefs Danny & Chuck at Bremner. Their food is incredible, the vibe is lively, and service is on point. And of course there’s Park. Antonio is the man.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Me time is spent with my amazing son Kai. He keeps me grounded, and gets me to bed early. He’s my little hero; my mini me.
Where is your favourite place to travel?
Greek Isles in the summer. There’s so much history, amazing weather, people are friendly; food is fresh, simple and incredibly delicious.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I would probably be designing and marketing a t-shirt line or playing ice hockey.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Right to Play. I have a seven-year-old, so it’s really close to home. I’ve donated my services by playing a few events for them in Toronto with my homie, DJ Tony Okungbowa from The Ellen Show.
What to you is notable?
Music is such an important part of life. Draw inspiration from it – I did.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone from the get-go.
Cover image: Félix Bernier
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