WORLD'S LEADING INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Q & A with Blake Mycoski, Designer and Chief Shoe Giver

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What are the most important attributes one should develop to be in your industry? 
The key to success in any field is being smart, resourceful, and willing to ask questions. I have started businesses in areas that I initially knew nothing about. TOMS wasn’t even a business at first, it was just a project that I was too excited to let go of. Enthusiasm is contagious. When you are passionate about what you are doing, people will volunteer their time to help you.

How did you gain experience in your industry that got you where you are today? 
When I had the idea for TOMS, I knew absolutely nothing about fashion, shoes, or design. I was literally starting from scratch. What I had, however, was enthusiasm. I couldn’t wait to tell people about the kids that I had met and my plan to return to Argentina. Over time and a lot of research, I learned everything that I needed to know. You can learn everything you need to know on through books and internet research… you just have to be curious and resourceful.

Have you had a mentor? If so, what are the greatest pieces of career advice they’ve given you?
I have been blessed with a number of incredible mentors who have shaped me over the years. The best advice I ever got was this: “the more you give, the more you live.” This philosophy had a direct effect on me wanting to start TOMS. I saw this business as an opportunity to give back and to create something larger than myself.  I highly recommend that young people search out mentor relationships.