Since its inception in 2009, Lovesocial has been keeping real busy. Specializing in cause-based campaigns through strategic social design, this small Vancouver agency has worked with the UN, Hewlett Packard, Michael Kors and Oprah Magazine, among several other big names. But the really neat thing about Lovesocial, apart from being one of the most talked about entrepreneurial ventures founded by a woman under the age of 25, is that they're not just globally aware, they're proactive about issues that arise in the world as they happen. In 2010, when a devastating flood hit Pakistan displacing more than 6 million people, Lovesocial began an emergency campaign to raise funds for relief efforts, spreading the word through major influencers on social networks.
Obviously at this point we all want to pick this woman's brain.
The following is a brief Q&A with Azita Ardakani, owner and founder of Lovesocial.
In previous interviews you've talked about volunteering after work as something that fulfilled and inspired you to start your business. Clearly you are adept at time management. What is your time management strategy?
Time management for me has been different lessons based on the phase of my life. When I was searching for passion and purpose in my career, I made time where there was none. Not doing it was not an option, as I knew I wanted to change my reality. That being said, now I am very sensitive to how I spend my time, and have learned how to say no, which helps me focus on the things I have whole-heartedly said yes to.
Photo courtesy Lovesocial
Do you have any advice for people who want to move away from their 9-5 towards pursuing their dreams?
All I can draw on is my own experience. For me, you know when your 9-5 isn't serving you because you begin counting down at 2:00pm. Once that is happening its just a matter of allowing yourself the permission of seeing what things you get lost in and excite you. The things you would do for free are often solid aligners on what you could be doing for profit and enjoying. With access to the web 24/7 there is little that you can't access from your home, learn about, and connect with at least virtually. You don't need to know how you are going to get there to begin the journey.
Do you have a mantra? What is it?
Keep it simple. Find the value. Communicate it well.
What is your favourite thing about being based in Vancouver?
I live and work in Gastown and appreciate the old world charm in juxtaposition with the tech start-ups and innovation that is everywhere you look.
Photo courtesy Lovesocial
Tell us a bit about your team.
We are called the little agency that does big things because we have a very small team, currently of 7. Two of which are in NYC. Our Vancouver team is an amazing eclectic group from various backgrounds. Everyone brings something amazing to the table.
Is there a campaign that you're currently working on that you'd like us to share?
Working on a few projects - one that is Vancouver specific but won’t be live for a few weeks. One of our ongoing projects is called Future Fortified - an effort by the Global Alliance in Improved Nutrition. Its pretty incredible. They provide essential vitamins and minerals to women and babies. The philanthropy model is sustainable (they work with local manufactures and distributors) and it helps babies get the nutrients they need so that they develop fully (mentally and physically).
Future Fortified Campaign
This kind of genuine passion for her work and its impact is probably one of the many reasons why the network giant Cisco selected Azita as one of 12 individuals around the world to share their story in a video series called My Connected Life. Check out her video below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLQgfdmMIoE
Links:
http://twitter.com/Pakistan_NOW
