Kristie Yung knew from a very young age that she was meant to sing. Simultaneously having a passion for helping others, she naturally fell into her role at Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver, where her experience in communications meets her love of non-profits. Now, juggling her singing career and promotions of Big Brothers, check out what drives her in today’s YPDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I have two jobs, actually. I work at Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver, implementing various marketing and communications strategies, managing media relations and online presence, copywriting and design for major events and brand management. I am also a singer-songwriter and producer. As an independent artist, I manage the composition, production, booking, distribution, marketing and promotions of my music career.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I started working at Big Brothers in 2008. I’ve always wanted to work for a cause that I believe in. It is a natural fit for me – the perfect marriage between communication and non-profit. I started singing and writing from a very young age but first officially stepped into the music scene at the age of 15. I am extremely passionate about both my careers. They both require a fair amount of creativity and it is that kind of creative expression that I live for.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part about having two jobs is the moment when you realize that one helps you excel in the other. Having a background in marketing makes being an Independent artist much less stressful. Marketing, promotions and business management comes natural to me – so I can spend more time focusing on song writing and less time trying to figure out how to manage a brand or develop a website. The most challenging part is managing both careers with my personal life. Learning to balance work and a social life is one thing, but learning to balance two jobs and a social life is another.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Music has always been my main passion. I can see myself still touring, performing and producing records in five years. I could also see myself having my own business helping other Independent artists manage the business side of things so they can focus on their music.
What does success look like to you?
As much as career means to me, success is finally finding a perfect balance and happiness in both work and life. Success to me boils down to being able to live a happy and comfortable life doing something that you’re passionate about. Being able to have all that and make a difference and giving back to the community in some capacity would be a bonus.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
In my music career it must have been my trip to Cuba to teach music Cuban arts students. On that trip, we played a sold out show at this gorgeous classic theatre – the reaction we (me and my band at the time) got from the audience was like no other.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Having a goal and a dream is one thing, but having the motivation, dedication and confidence to realize those dreams is another. Don’t be afraid to fail. You might fall five times. You might fall one hundred times. If you love what you do, keep doing it. It’s worth fighting for, even if you have to suffer from a few bruises along the way.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Of course, I support the organization that I work for, Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver. I am also a Big Buddy mentor and I see both behind the desk and first hand, the benefit in providing positive role models to at-risk children in our community. Mentoring plays an extremely important role in a child’s development – they learn self-confidence, healthy decision making, the importance of staying in school and giving back to the community. My older brother was, and still is, a role model to me. Without him to look up to, I don’t think I would be where I am today. He makes me want to be a better person – all because he lead by example.
What is Notable to you?
Those moments, milestones and people whose success stories inspire creativity, drive and confidence in others.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone
You can follow Kristie on Twitter @kristieyung