Today we’d like to introduce you to Joseph Smolack.
Hi Joseph, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I began selling coveted streetwear and footwear at the age of 15. My goals were to generate a sustainable income at a young age, save capital, and set myself up for a successful future. I moved to Toronto when I was 16, this was a pivotal moment of my career. I came across a sneaker store called Kenshi Toronto, I aquatinted myself with the store’s team, and I was a customer of the store for several months. I eventually applied for a job at the store, although the owners told me I was too young. The following Black Friday, I went to check out the store. I saw the store was very busy, I noticed there were only two employees in the shop, Kenshi was understaffed that day. Without being asked I took initiative, I began selling products to customers on the sales floor. I sold tens of thousands worth of inventory within my half a day there, I was immediately hired at the end of the workday. This experience taught me to be ambitious and creative. I continued to work with the store, and I met lots of influential and connected people throughout my time there. Throughout this journey, I was posting fashion-related content on social media. Over time, I grew a following and built a community online. I am still growing my personal brand today.
Instagram is my favourite platform to use, it is a place where me and all of my connections can network and communicate easily with one another.
Today my Instagram page is nearly at 40,000 followers.
I also analyze and trade in the stock market frequently, my top investment was in a company called Novavax (NVAX). I Invested in this company at $7 a share before the pandemic hit. Novavax went on to create a Covid-19 vaccine, and the company’s stock price rose above $300 a share.
I am still young, I have a lot to learn and experience. Although I’m very happy with the direction of my life and the mindset I’m developing.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I was often made fun of. When I decided to pursue a career in the fashion business, people would doubt and laugh at me. Including those closest to me. I believe these people were uncomfortable with me separating myself from the majority. It requires confidence to step out of your comfort zone and take a risk. The second obstacle was resources, at the start, I did not have the connections or capital I have now. I networked to build my circle and foundation from scratch, this took a few years to establish.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I sell sought after streetwear and footwear products to businesses and clients, often in bulk. I believe our sense of dress defines our character, personality and identity. I sell these high end and limited products with the goal of building my clients charisma and confidence.
I also help companies develop their social media platforms and expand their online presence. I post my own content on the side, I do this to test different growth strategies, discover the best tactics and apply them to my clients platforms.
My content also builds my personal brand, which has given me the opportunity to network with many insightful individuals and businesses. My favourite campaign was a brand deal I did for Reebok x Champs Sports. I created the campaign content for the Reebok Classics “Feel Golden Collection”.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Make friends with people who want the best for you, this is the foundation principle of a healthy mindset and network.
Find people who will celebrate your accomplishments with you, and support you throughout your failures, (and obviously do the same for them). Although, these friends should not be afraid to challenge you when you’re wrong. Find people who will supply you with constructive criticism when needed. This will allow you to develop as a person, and think critically.
Another key habit of success is reading. Make sure you are frequently engaging in meaningful literature. I’ve found many of my role models in books, my biggest role model is Canadian clinical psychologist Jordan B. Peterson. His books have changed my perception of life for the better. His literature has given me positive insight, and a meaningful approach towards my every endeavour.
I am also very grateful for my family, without them I would not be in this position. My family is hard working, empathetic and humble. Taking these attributes to heart, we have all found our way to success. Growing up surrounded with these qualities has shaped me into the person am today.
Contact Info:
- Email: jjsmolack@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jjsmolack/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jjsmolack
Image Credits
Conrad, Pat
