Julie Greenbaum: Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur

Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Julie Greenbaum, who Co-Founded F*CK Cancer to raise money for cancer research by throwing large-scale events and engaging Gen Y in philanthropy. What was the inspiration for her career route? Find out in today’s profile…

Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
The job is to raise money for cancer research by throwing large-scale events engaging Gen Y in philanthropy.

Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
My mother passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010, which is what inspired me to start this charity.

What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is knowing that we are making a difference and having the opportunity to connect with other individuals who have suffered terrible losses from this disease. There is a common bond amongst us all and it is so clear and evident meeting strangers from around the country who come together at our parties to collectively say F*ck Cancer.

One of our greatest challenges is managing the stewardship of the movement; the challenges associated with resources vs. unlimited demand is often very stressful.

What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
I unfortunately let the stress of work affect my personal life. Something I am working on changing!

Where do you see yourself in five years?
The sky is the limit. I see this becoming a global movement.

What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Taking a horrible loss and channelling the anger and pain into something positive and worthwhile.

Throwing these events has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life; having the opportunity to witness people coming together and uniting in this fight against cancer is extremely inspiring and therapeutic.

What does success look like to you? Does money = happiness?
A cure for cancer.

How would a big bank account help you when you are dealing with a life-threatening illness?

What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Being asked to speak about my charity at the Woman of Action event in Montreal, which happened to fall on my mother’s 54th birthday.   

Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Don’t forget to have fun!

Where is your favourite place to wine/dine in your city and why?
Les Enfants Terribles. Great food + drinks. (MTL).

When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
With my friends. It’s so important to surround yourself with positive people that have your best interest at heart.

Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
I love travelling to Israel. The culture and lifestyle is extremely refreshing!

Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
In addition to my dedication to F*CK Cancer, I support the Weekend to End Woman’s Cancer – anything supporting raising money for cancer research is extremely important to me.

What to you is notable?
Authenticity.

Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone – but I need to learn how to detach!

*The next F*CK Cancer event takes places on Friday, November 8th, at Cinema in Toronto. T- Shirts are the tickets! ($40). Plus, they’ve got to be worn to the event to gain entry. You can purchase your tshirt online here or at the door, if they’re still available. (Better to purchase in advance).