Bio

Ian earned his BS, as well as Masters Degree in Education from the University of Bridgeport. Taking a position as an educator in the Miami-Dade County Public School System in 2005- 2009 taught him a great deal, and recognizing the need for additional educational resources, he started an in-home tutoring company. As the arts were being cut from classrooms, Ian saw an increasing need to leverage the arts as a motivational platform for urban youth. Increasing referrals highlighted a community-wide need and as a result, in June 2008, The Motivational Edge Inc. was formed. Ian is currently the Founder and CEO of the company

Who has been your most influential mentor?

Donna Phillips, my Advisor and a lead professor at The University of Bridgeport.

How did you get to where you are today?

Passion, perseverance, faith and the ability to ask questions helped me get to where I am today. I’ve always known I was on the right path but I certainly did not get here without help and guidance from others!

How did you get to be a community leader?

In my case, the following saying is very appropriate, “actions speak louder than words.” I have been fortunate enough to assemble a team of dedicated teaching artists, educators and professionals that care deeply for our community and the youth that reside in it. Together, we are all leaders of our community, guiding the younger generation to make more mindful decisions.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself still as the CEO of The Motivational Edge, thriving in multiple cities. I also see myself as a successful non-profit coach, impacting the lives of many people outside of my daily operations at The Motivational Edge.

What about this city inspires you?

I love that Miami is still a new and fresh city, with many cultures and ethnicities comprising the ever changing population of transplants, locals and everyone in between. I must say, the beautiful weather is also an inspiration.

What is your favorite thing about Miami?

Considering that I grew up in the northeast, my favorite thing about Miami is the winter…If we can even call it that.

Miami should be…  more collaborative.

Miami could be… more than a vacation destination for many.

Miami wants to be… a highly revered city and is trying to find its way.

Miami needs… to be worrying less about excess and more about access for its citizens.