Growing up in a privilege environment and being exposed to charity at a young age, Kasondra always envisioned herself starting a foundation of her own. Being a natural leader and armed with strong determination, she wanted to create something specifically to address the many challenges the youth of today face in this Wednesday’s YEDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am the President and CEO of Face of Today. Face of Today is a charitable foundation that provides underprivileged, aspiring youth with opportunities to be successful on a local and global scale. I also merchandise and assist buying Ladies Wear at my family business, Army & Navy.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I grew up in a world where philanthropy and giving back were very important values. Watching my Mom manage her charitable organization, Face The World Foundation, inspired me to spread my wings and make a difference on a local and global level by providing opportunity for the leaders of tomorrow. I am also inspired to encourage my generation to get involved in philanthropy.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Knowing that Face of Today is making a difference in our community inspires me to keep going. I love hearing stories about how we have helped create change. It is motivating and invigorating.
The most challenging part is continuing to raise funds and awareness in an innovative way. Coming up with new fundraising initiatives that will connect the bridge between the leaders of today and the leaders of tomorrow is definitely a challenge.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I see myself growing Face of Today throughout Canada and creating a movement on a local and global level.
What does success look like to you?
Having the ability to do what you love on a day to day basis and being surrounded by positive and influential people who motivate you to strive to your highest potential. You have never failed until you have tried -success is all about learning and never giving up.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Receiving Face of Today’s charity number because it marked the official beginning of Face of Today. My dream of creating a charitable foundation and giving back was finally achieved.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Never give up, always persevere. The old saying “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is so true – it is the hurdles that we overcome that mold us into the people we are.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I personally support a lot of different charities with my family. Last year, Face of Today supported the following organizations: Opportunity International Canada, Street to Home Foundation, Keg Spirit Foundation, Heros Hockey, Motionball, Stand, Camp Out, Youth Education Farms and Potluck.
All these charities are important to me because they provide awareness or offer opportunities for young adults to improve their education and involvement in the community. In other words, these charities give youth the opportunity and tools they need to be successful and achieve their dreams.
What is Notable to you?
Watching young, influential people do good with the resources they are given and utilize the tools they have to give back. Creating change and spreading awareness about worthwhile causes is Notable to me.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
Blackberry & iPhone.