World We Dare to Imagine Part 3: Future Champions Foundation

Future Champions Foundation - Helping Underprivileged Youth Learn Discipline and a New Skill

Imagine a world where every inner-city and underprivileged child has the opportunity to learn discipline, gain a new skill, and discover their potential.


Future Champions Foundation is a non-profit organization that aims to provide inner-city and underprivileged youth, in the greater Los Angeles community, with the opportunity to learn discipline and a new skill through free boxing classes held at elementary schools after school. Our mission is to give these kids an outlet for their energy and emotions while instilling in them the discipline necessary to achieve their goals and succeed in life. We are passionate about helping these young individuals discover their inner champion and develop the discipline, resilience, and confidence they need to succeed in all aspects of their lives. With your support and the partnership of LAUSD's Youth Services after-school program, we can provide underprivileged youth with the opportunity to learn this transformative sport and become champions not only in the ring, but in their communities and beyond.

I am passionate about this work because I have seen firsthand the positive impact that boxing can have on people, especially young kids. Boxing is a challenging and demanding sport that requires discipline, hard work, and focus. It teaches children the importance of setting goals, working hard to achieve them, and never giving up at a young age. It also helps them to develop confidence, self-esteem, and respect for themselves and others. These invaluable lessons can be learned all while being active, and can apply themselves to all aspects of these young children's lives.

What sets Future Champions Foundation apart is our focus on providing free classes to underprivileged youth. Many of these kids do not have access to organized sports or after-school programs that could help them develop discipline and a sense of purpose. By offering free-weekly boxing classes, we are giving them the opportunity to learn a new skill and discover their potential in a safe and supportive environment. In addition, our coaches also serve as dedicated mentors, offering guidance and support to help these young individuals navigate school and life.

Anima Mundi Development Partners should support Future Champions Foundation because we share a common goal of empowering underprivileged youth and helping them succeed in life. By supporting our organization, you will be investing in the future of these kids and giving them the tools they need to achieve their dreams. Your support will enable us to expand our program and reach more kids in need, providing them with a positive outlet for their energy and emotions and helping them develop the discipline and skills necessary to succeed in all aspects of their lives. Thank you for your time and consideration and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

World We Imagine Part I

 "Today we are redefining the geography of community and accepting shared accountability for common human values. We have the chance to extend the notion that all men are created equal to every human being on the planet. This will require global structures and products we are only beginning to imagine.... Each of us in his or her own way can contribute something by thinking -- and acting -- like a true global citizen. We have only one world for all of us on earth, and the future really is ours to create, in a world we dare to imagine together." -- Jacqueline Novogratz

The change one person can make can seem rather insignificant at times, however the change that person makes can inspire many for generations to come. In order to make the world a better place, the first step that I need to take is to become the best version of myself. While working on qualities of myself that I would like to change, I may inspire others who have noticed the effects of change. These qualities include honesty, respect, empathy, kindness, courage, perseverance, and self-improvement. When Jacqueline Novogratz mentions that every person can contribute something by thinking and acting like a true global citizen, I believe that she is referring to this pursuit of constantly improving aspects of oneself to make themselves a less selfish, more kind, empathetic person. When more people than not begin thinking and acting like a true global citizen, that understands and respects their impact on the world, the future of the earth will become more loving.

I believe that a lot of the problems in the world can be solved by humans becoming less selfish. As more people begin to become self-absorbed, the world begins to feel like a place where every man and woman must fend for themselves. This creates a panic/anxiety mindset which was observed during the pandemic. When the individualistic feeling is heightened, people do not hesitate to take advantage of others and do what they deem must be done in order to protect themselves. However, if people began to become less selfish and more loving, in the event of a catastrophe, people would come together to help each other.

I oftentimes have a cynical view of the future, which involves a dystopian AI controlled society. However, quotes and reminders like The Blue Sweater remind me of the importance of positivity and the impact that change can have in making the world a better place. When I allow myself to submit to the future of a dystopian society, I am failing to do my part in creating a better future for generations to come. I'm not sure that a certain set of actions would make the world a better place, however if people "contribute something by thinking -- and acting -- like a true global citizen", I am certain that the world will become better place.

Random Blog Post #2

 Inspiration VS Motivation

Motivation and inspiration are two concepts that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have different meanings. Motivation is an internal drive or desire that pushes you to take action towards a particular goal or objective. It is often fueled by external factors, such as rewards or consequences, and can be short-term or long-term. On the other hand, inspiration is an external force that sparks creativity or innovation within you. It can come from a person, an event, or even nature, and it is often a source of long-lasting energy and enthusiasm.

One way to think about the difference between motivation and inspiration is to imagine a runner preparing for a race. Motivation is the reason why the runner is training every day. It could be the desire to win the race or to improve their personal best time. Inspiration, on the other hand, is what drives the runner to come up with new training techniques or to push themselves harder than before. It could be watching a video of a famous runner or hearing a motivational speech that sparks a new idea. Inspiration is oftentimes the catalyst for motivation.

Ultimately, both motivation and inspiration are important for achieving success in any area of life. Motivation helps us stay focused on our goals and take action towards them, while inspiration gives us the energy and creativity we need to come up with new ideas and approaches. Understanding the difference between these two concepts can help you identify what you need in order to stay motivated and inspired in your personal and professional lives.

Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core Post 2

 The reason why I read Resilient by Dr. Rick Hansen was because the concept of resilience is one that is highly relevant at this point of my life. Lately, it has been a bit overwhelming to juggle school, interviews, social life, and boxing/gym. I have been feeling more tired and unmotivated as of recent, and the topic of building a strong mental core spoke to me deeply. In addition, I've believed that mental strength is key to living a happier life, and this is one of the topics Dr Hansen discusses. Often, the reality of our situations isn't as overwhelming as our perception of them.

The book has been filled with lots of great takeaways for me to apply to my daily life. Every chapter leaves me feeling more in control of my life, and confident tackling my daily responsibilities. The point that struck me the most was how needless anxiety can build up an immense amount of stress and fatigue. A constant state of anxiety can also cause people to miss emotional distances creeping up in relationships and overreact to "exaggerated" threats. Constant, needless anxiety ultimately leaves a person less resilient. 

I enjoyed the book because of how easily digestible the topics were. There are 12 chapters in total that each focus on a different aspect of resilience. Every idea/section is relatively concise, and chapters are ended with key points to help the reader reflect on the topics. The exercises that Dr. Hansen provides are incredibly helpful as well, with many of the exercises focused around taking a moment to be present and consider a new perspective. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is feeling looking to improve their mental strength and build an unshakeable core. It's helped me manage my anxiety, build my mental strength, and approach challenges with confidence.

Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core by Dr. Rick Hanson

 The reason I've chosen to read Resilient is because I really enjoy self-help books. I feel like I have a personal mentor for the time I am reading. This book in particular comes at a good time in my life, as I have been feeling increasingly stressed out. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed about the responsibilities of life, but "growing an unshakable core" can help you stay calm and take things one step at a time.  I believe that mental toughness is a key to living a successful and happy life.

So far, the book has been very enjoyable. Dr. Rick Hanson is able to explain theories with basic terminology, and provide practices and strategies to remain calm. I can relate many of the mindfulness topics to The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. Both stress the importance of reminding oneself to stay grounded throughout the changes of life. As I continue to read the book, I am excited to incorporate new practices in my life to improve my mental strength.

Investment Proposal

TO: Clark Hansen, CEO, Anima Mundi Development Partners
FROM: Vincent An, Research & Development, Anima Mundi Development Partners
DATE: March 1, 2023
SUBJECT: Investment Opportunity: Orb Energy

As part of the Research & Development Team at Anima Mundi Development Partners, you have asked that I recommend a business committed to social responsibility and promoting a green economy. After research and careful consideration, I recommend Orb Energy, a solar energy company based out of Bengaluru, India. Included in this memo are the following:

• AMDP standards for investment 
• Orb Energy's background, along with financial records and values
• Critical appraisals from industry sources 
• My recommendation for why AMDP should/should not invest
  

The AMDP Standards:
    Triple Bottom Line:
    Expands the traditional business success metrics to include social wellbeing, environmental health, and a fair economy, rather than just the financial performance of a company. The Triple Bottom Line follows the three P's:

• Profit: a strategy to ensure the maximization of profits to help the financial performance of a company
  
• People: a commitment to creating value for all stakeholders, including customers, employees, and community members
  
• Planet: dedication to making a positive impact on the planet by being environmentally responsible (Miller)
  

    Corporate Social Responsibility:
    A self regulating business model designed to make a positive impact on the environment through social  accountability. To contribute to the well being of the community and environment, many companies focus on four broad CSR categories: environment efforts, philanthropy, ethical labor practices, and volunteering. (Reckmann)

    Social Enterprise:
    A business that maximizes its benefits to the environment and society while also maximizing profits.  Social enterprises balance their financial activities with social goals, making it a priority to reinvest profits into their goals before making payments to shareholders. (Barone)

    Carbon Footprint:
    The carbon footprint of a business is the total amount of carbon dioxide (C02) emissions caused by a result of their activities. This includes both direct and indirect emissions caused by their operations, production, manufacturing, and transportation activities. The increase of carbon dioxide emissions have been correlated to climate change, and thus, it is essential that companies begin to reduce their carbon footprint to promote environmental health. (Selin)

Background:

Analysis:

Recommendation:

Sources:
    https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/what-is-the-triple-bottom-line 

    https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/4679-corporate-social-responsibility.html

    https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/social-enterprise.asp#:~:text=our%20editorial
%20policies-,What%20Is%20a%20Social%20Enterprise%3F,used%20to%20fund%20s
ocial%20programs.

    https://www.britannica.com/science/carbon-footprint

Random Blog Post 1

 The Transition from Student to Employee

The main focus of my life for the past couple of months has been finding a job in an industry I want to pursue. As a business major, the job recruitment process was always something that loomed in the back of my mind. It was something that I knew I would have to tackle eventually, but the weight of that task never really hit me until senior year. The recruitment process is one that every college student undergoes during their college career, and is filled with confusing feelings of pressure, self-doubt, and anxiety. Many often pursue an Investment Banking career path, or some sort of consulting/advisory position for a Big4. However, I ultimately set my eyes on pursuing a career path in Risk Management. This decision to pursue Risk Management was not an easy one. Frankly, it was overwhelming to think about committing myself to a specific sector of business for the rest of my life. However, after taking Professor Jaconi's Risk Management class, I became fascinated about how companies tackle risk and the complex inner workings of the insurance industry.

Once I had a clear idea of what I wanted to pursue, I started applying to job openings in the Risk Management field. I spent a lot of time crafting my resume and cover letter, tailoring them to each job I applied for. I also made sure to network with professionals in the industry and attend job fairs to increase my chances of finding a job. It is a competitive process, and there were times when I felt discouraged, but I kept pushing forward and trying my best. A silver-lining I have found through recruiting season has been the chance for me to grow as a person. As someone who is more reserved and to myself, networking can oftentimes be draining for me. However, after practice and experience, I have found that networking has become more natural to me due to my genuine curiosity for the Risk Management industry. Changing my perspective about networking in this way has helped tremendously to relieve the pressure that oftentimes comes with networking.

 
As I continue through the job recruitment process, I am becoming more stressed about interviews. I oftentimes put a lot of pressure on myself, but I should give myself some more grace during the whole process. Interviews, as well as the entire job recruitment process, is all a learning experience. As long as I commit myself to doing the best as I can, and continue to learn and become more experienced throughout the recruitment process with different companies, I believe that I have the determination to eventually be successful. After all, an interview is just an opportunity to showcase my skills and experience, and to learn more about the company and the industry. The pressure to present myself in the best possible light can be daunting, but I am slowly learning to approach interviews with a growth mindset, viewing each interview as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Although the entire process from transitioning from a student to an employee can be daunting and discouraging, its important to keep a positive mindset throughout the experience. Although the result of my performance is an important aspect, I believe that the most important element to prioritize is to continue improving. The entire transition from student to employee is stressful, but exciting as well.