Today we’d like to introduce you to Deron Gadsden.
Hi Deron, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
So BE Impactful as an organization started on Dec. 30, 2021. But even before that, it was just a hashtag I would use on social media posts. At the time, I was working for a consulting firm and doing nonprofit work focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and I would randomly throw #BeImpactful out there. One of my friends, now a community leader for BE Impactful, has a clothing business and does graphic design. We started playing around with logo ideas and making shirts. This was something we could wear, maybe sell some here and there, but there wasn’t a real vision yet.
Fast Forward to January 2022, we officially launched BE Impactful on social media. We were getting good engagement, but we were still determining what it was. So, I wanted to host a fun event introducing people to the organization. We organized “Black Literature Matters,” our most popular event. The event was successful, and people were interested in learning more about BE Impactful.
We started building a team and developing our organizational structure, investing in ourselves physically and monetarily. Now, we’re operating in two states – Texas and South Carolina – hoping to expand to more cities and states. Ultimately, where we are now is exactly where I envisioned we’d be – creating meaningful impact with my friends and family. It’s been a journey, but it’s exciting to see how far we’ve come and how much more we can accomplish.”
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The BE Impactful journey has not been smooth, but I am grateful for all the ups and downs. While being an entrepreneur is not for the weak, running a nonprofit is twice as hard. It’s like juggling multiple balls at once, trying to maintain a balance between the visionary space and the execution and mobilization space. Then there’s the leadership piece. Nonprofit leadership is a whole different beast, which requires constant motivation and mobilization of individuals who are willing to commit their time and skills without the promise of a salary. Keeping everyone on board and committed to the cause can be difficult. However, I have learned that building strong relationships and creating a sense of community is critical to motivating and mobilizing people. To build my skills in leadership, I am constantly seeking opportunities to learn from others. I read leadership books and articles, attend conferences, and network with other leaders to gain insights and advice. I also understand that the organization’s growth is linked to my personal growth as a leader, so I put in extra effort to become a better leader each day.
The nonprofit space has its share of challenges, which I needed more preparation for. The biggest surprise has been the existence of gatekeepers within the space. Some leaders and organizations hold real or implicit positions within the nonprofit space, running funding, and only want to share information or collaborate if they see some grand benefit. This has been a hurdle. However, I remain focused on collaborating with others as long as the objectives align and the team’s vibes are in sync. Working together towards a shared vision is the best way to achieve sustainable impact in the nonprofit space.
Despite the challenges, I’m having an amazing time running BE Impactful Foundation. It feels like I’m living in a dream, but I’m also aware it requires much hard work, dedication, and commitment to make it a reality. It has challenged me to grow as a leader and allowed me to work towards making a real impact.
We’ve been impressed with BE Impactful Foundation, but for folks who might need to be more familiar, what can you share about what you do and what sets you apart?
BE Impactful Foundation is a collective of change-makers from diverse backgrounds and industries who share a passion for empowering our community. By harnessing our collective strengths and talents, we can create a meaningful impact that inspires and uplifts those around us. Our organization supports community well-being and advancement by activating service initiatives educational programs, and cultivating healthy and beneficial communal relationships. We promote social well-being by strengthening relationships during events, group meetings, and social get-togethers. Our events are designed to meet the specific interests of the community and are tailored to the community’s needs. BE Impactful initiatives include back-to-school drives, self-care forums, and literature fairs, hoping to inspire individuals to create positive change in the world. The core of our mission is reflected in our slogan, “Leave a piece of you in everything you touch,” which unites all genders and ages in the Black community to share knowledge and build a better future.
We’d like to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you.
I don’t think luck has played a part in my life or business. Instead, I feel blessed to have so many people who support me in business and everything I do. I am incredibly fortunate to have the support and love of my family and friends, especially as I navigated the challenges of founding a nonprofit. BE Impactful Foundation has always been a family affair, sometimes challenging. We have our fair share of conflicts and disagreements, but ultimately, we’re all united by our shared commitment to making a difference in our community. Every time I’ve faced a setback or felt overwhelmed, my family and friends have been there to pick me up. They’ve cheered me on through every small victory and stood by me through every setback. They’ve helped me see that there’s always a way forward, no matter how tough things may get. When surrounded by people who believe in me, challenge me, and hold me accountable, I feel the most impactful.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.beimpactful.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beimpactfulfoundation/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BEImpactful/
