YPDaily: Bryan Brock

From creating a stylish brand from nothing to teaching troubled teens, Bryan Brock does it all. With his partner Tyrone Edwards (host of Much Music’s RapCity), together they present hometown pride to the rest of the world with their popular blog 1 LOVE T.O. that bridges the gap between cultures, neighbourhoods, interests and generations. Read on about Bryan as today’s YPD…

Describe your job in a nutshell.
As Creative Arts Program Leader at The Remix Project, I’m responsible for teaching and mentoring “at-risk” youth (ages 16-22) from Toronto’s priority neighborhoods. The program, which runs in 6-month semesters, focuses on Graphic Design, Illustration/Painting, Fashion, Film/Video, Journalism and Creative Writing. The objective is to help refine the raw talents of young creative people in order to help them find success, not only in the program, but in their own lives.

As Creative Director and co-founder of Toronto lifestyle brand and website 1 LOVE T.O., my job is to help instill hometown pride, while showcasing the best of what our city has to offer. With a unique perspective, my partner and co-founder Tyrone “T-rexxx” Edwards (host of Much Music’s RapCity) and I have been bridging the gaps between cultures, neighbourhoods, interests and generations as a way of unifying our city.

Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I started as a volunteer at The Remix Project, helping a young aspiring graphic artist. The experience of giving back was so inspiring that it led me to take on a permanent position as the Creative Arts Program Leader. As for 1 LOVE T.O., I found inspiration in bringing people together through arts, culture, music, style and community initiatives.

What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of what I do at The Remix Project is knowing that I’m able to inspire, motivate and share my life experiences with others who will in turn use that knowledge to better themselves. Everyday is different at 1 LOVE T.O., but the best part of my day is meeting new people who contribute to the betterment of our city and its culture. The most challenging part of my day is finding time for the simple things in life. Balance is key.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Although I was nominated for the “Future Builders” category of the Notable Awards, I don’t know where I see myself in 5 years. I live each and everyday to the fullest, thriving off of new ideas and projects that I’m passionate about. If I can continue to do that for the next 5 years, I’d consider myself very fortunate.

What does success look like to you?
To me, success is knowing that you’ve inspired positive change.

What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
When I got my first real job; I went from being an unpaid intern (fresh out of college) to becoming head of the department, with a salary and benefits.

Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Be yourself. Be driven. Be genuine. Be patient.

Do you support any charities?
I support The Remix Project, 411 Initiative For Change, Canadian Red Cross Society, Canadian Heart & Stroke Foundation and the Daily Bread Food Bank.

What to you is notable?
Notable is when someone gives, without the intent to receive.

Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
Blackberry and iPad.