On September 27th, the Daviess County CEO Cohort had the honor of hosting Zella Taylor, CEO of the United Way and a successful business owner. During her visit, she shared profound insights on discovering and pursuing one's passion, underscoring the importance of "sweat equity" in achieving success. A seasoned guest speaker for the CEO cohort, Zella expressed her enthusiasm for returning to speak, reaffirming her belief in the potential of the young generation to shape the future.
*Key Messages from Zella’s Visit:
**Finding Your Passion: she encouraged the students to identify their passion and pursue it relentlessly, emphasizing that passion, combined with dedication, can lead to extraordinary outcomes. She shared personal stories of the joys and challenges of being in charge of a nonprofit, offering a glimpse into her experiences as the leader of the United Way.
** The Power of Community Involvement: Highlighting the United Way’s mission, she explained how the organization aims to build stronger communities by focusing on three key pillars: education, financial stability, and health. She urged the cohort to get involved, citing examples like the "Day of Caring" initiative, where over 700 volunteers come together to make a significant impact on the community.
**Opportunities and Sharing "Your Why": she posed a thought-provoking question to the students: "When do opportunities start?" She emphasized the importance of being ready to seize opportunities whenever they arise. In closing, she encouraged the cohort not to be afraid to share "Your Why"—the personal reasons behind their passions and goals.
**Challenges of Leading a Non-Profit: she offered insights into the hurdles faced by non-profit leaders, from fundraising to program management, and how these challenges are balanced by the rewarding outcomes of community impact.
In addition to her work with the United Way, she shared experiences from her business ventures, including her involvement in real estate. She discussed her experiences with flipping properties, managing cash flow, and the concept of "sweat equity"—the investment of hard work and determination to maximize success in any business endeavor.
With a degree in psychology and certification as a Life Coach, she also touched on the importance of personal growth, resilience, and maintaining a clear vision for the future.
The Daviess County Cohort extended their sincere gratitude to Zella Taylor for sharing her time, knowledge, and passion. Her leadership and belief in building a better community through the United Way and her personal ventures serve as a guiding light for the students, reminding them that with passion and commitment, anything is possible.
