KRYSTAL G AYLE :
POWERHOUSE Our future looks bright. As an industry, we look to our manufactures for inspiration, direction and hope. They steer the industry in a direction that leads to creativity, positivity and growth. We must commend the trailblazers who create new leaders and allow them to thrive as they change and shape our industry. Meet Krystal Gayle. Her mantra is “Knowledge is Power, Experience is fuel.” She truly believes in the strength of work ethic and the power of manifesting all things. It was very refreshing to speak to such a powerful young mind that you know will have a positive effect on the future of our industry. Born and raised in Jamaica, she came to Canada with her entire family at the age of nine. “For a long as I could remember, education was the driving force in my life. I was very dedicated to school – something my parents drilled into me at an early age. I had a passion for entertainment, on and off stage, but creativity “can’t buy bread.” So here I was on a path to obtaining a degree to become a clinical psychologist. I completely had my head in my books, checking off the boxes, doing everything I was supposed to do. But it wasn’t fulfilling, so I started to do a lot of volunteer work, things that would satisfy my needs. A few friends had told me about some volunteer opportunities with Laurier’s Association of Black Students. I stepped out of my comfort zone and started creating marketing material. Posters turned into campaigns and then I was hosting events. Next thing you know, someone thought it was a good idea to give us a microphone, and I was hosting a radio show. What started as a trial lasted for more than 4 years – actually, that show is still on air, with a new cast to this day. It was this journey that made me realize how much I love creating experiences for people, helping them connect to their community and their culture. We were part of the Diversity and Equity Office; our focus was to create safe spaces on and off-campus for marginalized groups. I feel like this experience gave me a new lens on life – how sometimes the smallest things can have the greatest impact on someone’s experience.”
18
MAGAZINE
