Meet Featured Dad Evin Schwartz, from Belouga.
Tell us about your company!
Belouga is a social learning platform making education impactful, accessible and equitable for the youth of the world through interactive streaming content, aimed at providing a global perspective while aligning to everyday school subject areas and interests.
Why did you start or decide to work at your company?
I started Belouga after having a deep feeling that as a society we're failing the next generations to come, especially in traditional learning environments using outdated resources and practices. If we're able to serve up rich and engaging content to the next generation (kids) that sparks their curiosity and creativity, while connecting them with other cultures, religions, and races, their views on the world can really shift for the better. We're not reinventing the wheel here, but rather bringing together elements all of us use and love in our daily lives, from streaming video to social media and content creation. Today, Belouga is used by learners in over 120 countries, providing them with a true global lens and learning community.
Tell us about your family!
Family means everything to me. My wife and I met 9 years ago in New York as I was getting into a cab and she was getting out. Total serendipitous run-in that changed our lives forever and we've been been together ever since. We welcomed our son into the world this past year and currently live in Toronto but spend a ton of time in New York and Montreal where both of us grew up.
What was the hardest thing about becoming a dad?
Balance. You realize pretty quickly that the extremes of life as an entrepreneur have to be changed.The pandemic has actually made this easier as my wife and I both work from home and are able to plan our schedules in advance to make sure we're both able to get our work done, while spending plenty of time with our little guy and getting a few minutes of personal time as well.
Has being a dad impacted your career? How?
Absolutely, and for the better in every way possible.It's given me the ability to really value my time, not just from a financial perspective, but from a quality point of view. I'm normally connected 24/7, but being a dad has really shifted my hours and given me the opportunity to setup non-negotiables for family time each day.
What's one thing you've learned from your child?
Perspective. I absolutely love seeing the world through my sons eyes as he discovers everything around him. It's given me an opportunity to also look around and realize/appreciate the little things that I was rushing through before.
How has being a dad made you a better/ different leader? *
Being a dad is the best title I have ever had, which translates to all aspects of life. On the leadership side, it's given me more empathy and value, connecting with colleagues and clients at a much deeper level. We are all trying to grow our careers as quickly as possible, but slowing down and taking the time to really appreciate the achievements of those around you is something we need to put more value on. I believe this is something all leaders and organizations should prioritize.