There can be no challenge to the statement that Lemond Brown, CEO of the Swaliga Foundation, is bringing up the next generation. During his Savvy Entrepreneur Spotlight, Lemond shared his journey to being an entrepreneur, and his passion for helping children. While focusing on the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) curriculum, Lemond and his team incorporate the arts to increase excitement among the students. The Swaliga Foundation is local to the Washington, DC area, however, their reach has already crossed the globe.
The Journey
Lemond’s journey started back in 2011 when he had a life-changing interaction. While finishing up his degree at Drexler University, he was approached by someone who told him he “wasn’t doing enough”. As the conversation continued, Lemond was told: “that he wasn’t using his full potential”. For many people, these comments may have been shrugged off. For Lemond, however, the interaction sparked something in him. He began to think about things he could do to help his community. Lemond began to search for his purpose.
After graduating from Drexler with a degree in Architectural Engineering, Lemond founded the Swaliga Foundation. He moved back to his roots in Washington, D.C., and began to explore non-profits and business in general.
The Mission
Lemond knew that he wanted to work with children. He saw a specific need in his community, especially in math and science. Remembering his own struggles as a student helped Lemond understand that learning styles vary. With that in mind, the Swaliga Foundation’s mission was established. Its primary focus is on education, with an emphasis on meeting learners where they are. Lemond recognized that teaching methods had to evolve, and that is what the Swaliga Foundation does.
The Passion
Lemond’s first passion has always been music. He has combined this with his new passion for teaching and helping children. They discuss topics including sound waves and energy and 3d printing, which are new concepts for young children. The children have also shown interest in graphic design, photography, and making music. Lemond allows the children to express their creativity and tries to connect them to what they learn in school. He shows the children how their interests relate to physics, mathematics, and technology. More importantly, he seeks to change the perspective and build the children’s confidence.
While Lemond loves interacting with all of the children, he is especially fond of the middle school students. Children aged 11-14, in Lemond’s opinion, “are excited to learn new things, but are still able to be molded”. They know what they like, and are trying to develop their individual passions.
The Collaboration
In 2016, Lemond and the Swaliga Foundation were fortunate enough to send 2 students to South Africa to experience the culture. The following year, they were able to take 5 students. The purpose of the exchange trip is to give the students a different experience while incorporating STEM into the 2-week curriculum. “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care”, says Lemond. It’s all about the children and giving them a different perspective.
Lemond is really big on collaboration and enjoys partnering with other non-profit organizations. He quickly realized that he could not do it all alone, and collaborating helps to bring more ideas to the table. He is also thankful to have volunteers, part-time educators, and board members help to generate ideas and find connections. Lemond believes his success stems from developing relationships and claiming opportunities when they present themselves.
Final Thoughts
In his final message to the Savvy Community, Lemond says to “run your race”. By that he means, life, in general, has its ups and downs. And for entrepreneurs, it can be even more drastic. He encourages entrepreneurs to “stay grounded in your purpose and mission”. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Be consistent and stay faithful.
During his downtime, Lemond uses his passion for music as an outlet. He still finds the time to perform and record. Lemond also loves to travel and hopes to do more in the near future.
To keep up Lemond and the Swaliga Foundation, feel free to connect with him on Instagram and Twitter using @tribeswaligia. In addition, stay informed on upcoming events by visiting www.swaligafoundation.org.
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