David joined Wayfinder’s Impact Council in August 2022, with the encouragement of his good friend and attorney, Jason Russell.
“I asked Jason for suggestions. He suggested Wayfinder and I hopped on!”
David was attracted to the mission as well as the opportunity to flex his empathy muscles.
“I think there’s a large and growing group of people who aren’t given the same opportunities as everyone else. And that really speaks to me. I think a lot about what enables someone to be successful—and I mean that in the broadest sense of the word. Whether it’s self-actualization, financially, or helping others—whatever success means for them, it’s almost always a consequence of someone else helping them.”
David’s path to success has been interesting. “I was a personal trainer for 10 years. I got my degree in human kinetics and worked in the fitness industry. Then in 2018, I started working with a YouTuber. I managed her production, reworked her team, and set up a structure. So, I set up my own consultancy where I work with other YouTubers, helping them put together a business backbone for their creative efforts.”
For David, developing empathy is deliberate. “I’m trying to be intentional with how I live my life and leave some mark on the world.” For him, that’s contributing to causes that are meaningful to him–including Wayfinder.
“I’m trying to be intentional with how I live my life and leave some mark on the world.”
He wants to encourage others who might be interested in getting involved. “It really can take as much or as little time as you want—you can still be involved. If you have financial means but less time, contribute what you have more of. If you have more time, fewer means, contribute your time.”
David’s business means he travels a lot and works European hours. But staying connected is important to him. Helping those in need or contributing to projects that improve the world is valuable in itself.
“I really admire the leadership of this organization because it’s very clear that this is an organization that uses those dollars impactfully. And they genuinely care about their mission.”
Would you like to make an impact? Join us!
Contact Vanessa Botshekan, Assoc. Vice President for Development & Donor Relations
vbotshekan@wayfinderfamily.org or 323-295-4555 x205
May 19, 2025