We had the good fortune of connecting with Christian Baylis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Christian, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One of the things about running a non-profit especially one like The Pack Youth Inc is that it takes a lot of selflessness. Weekly we pour into youth ages 9yrs-22yrs and it can’t be about you. It has to be about them and how you are pouring into them, developing them, and helping them be the best versions of themselves they can be. I as the director am very grateful to my faith in Christ because it keeps me grounded. Also, I am grateful for the positive community of people I get to do this life with because it helps me not give up during the hard times. When you commit to impacting the lives of others, you’re committing to laying your own wants and desires to the side at times so you can see others win.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Where I am today honestly was something I stumbled upon. I have always been passionate about young people and helping them win in life but I wasn’t sure how that would pan out. It wasn’t easy to get to where I am. It was honestly a lot of trials and errors, a lot of doors shutting in my face, and a lot of people turning down my dreams, but I remained committed. I have learned that I am an individual what is for me may not be for someone else and that’s okay. I have learned to not let someone else dictate your dreams and passions. Lastly, I have learned to never give up and never lose sight of the goal. The Pack Youth Inc is a place where destined young people become part of a family. At the end of the day no matter what I do if this mission is being met then I’m doing what I was designed to do.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
If I had a best friend visiting in town we would definitely go to the Vortex that’s my favorite burger in Atlanta. We would go to Chrome Yellow for coffee, go explore little five points and ponce city market. In addition, we would go to an Atlanta United Game that’s one of my top things to do. I enjoy exploring new things through the outdoors and drinking a good cup of coffee with the people I love.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am beyond grateful to so many people who have poured into me to help get me to where I am today. First, I would like to shoutout, my mother. Without her guidance, support, and many prayers that have helped mold me into the woman I am today I wouldn’t be here. She has always created an atmosphere for me to pursue my passions and what I was created to do. Secondly, I would like to thank my spiritual mentor Jason Thomas for always believing in me, in many times I didn’t believe in myself he always has. He has also pushed me to keep going. Lastly, I would like to shoutout my Alma Matar Southeastern University At Chapelhill. I learned a lot about myself while I was in college, I grew up a lot, I made mistakes, and I had wins. Without my professors, the staff, and the classes I wouldn’t be where I am today so I am beyond grateful for everything I learned while there that I have been able to take into my adult life.

Website: www.thepackyouth.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepackyth/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepackyth/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo7QMnK73GGw1gcuUjUE72w