"Don't judge a book by its cover," says Kasondra Cohen, daughter of local socialite and philanthropist Jacqui Cohen. "Coming from a privileged family, many people have a misconception of who I am and what I am about."
Heir to the Army and Navy department store fortune her mom runs, Vancouver's newest society darling is stepping out of her mother's shadow. "I really appreciate individuals that take the time to get to know me," she says. Like many young women, Cohen loves to shop and travel. She also likes being outdoors, camping and snowboarding. A graduate of Collingwood in West Vancouver, Cohen holds a realtors license but is not practising. Instead, the 25-yearold has inherited her mom's zeal for fundraising and started her own foundation.
Face of Today aims to help underprivileged youth achieve success. "As the next generation, it is very important to provide underprivileged youth with opportunities for personal and professional growth," Cohen says. After watching her mother's success with Face the World, Cohen was inspired to engage her generation in making a difference and changing the lives of those in need.
Cohen was exposed to charity at an early age. Her mother's Face the World house parties are legendary. Hollywood finest annually drop in and kibitz with the who's who of Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»at one of the premier parties on Vancouver's social calendar. Since 1991, Face the World has disbursed more than $7 million to local charities making a huge difference in the lives of abused women, battered children, the hungry, the homeless and the elderly.
Along with her board (all young entrepreneurs under the age of 35), Cohen hopes to achieve similar success dedicating all of her time to fundraising and helping others. "Building up a charity is harder than starting a business," she says.
Since 2010, Face of Today has raised over $200,000 for a variety of youth charities in B.C. From starting an endowment fund for children with learning disabilities to helping disadvantaged youth through mentorship programs, Cohen feels fortunate to be able to give back. Benefactors have included Street to Home, Heroes Hockey and UBC's CampOUT, a summer leadership camp for queer and allied youth.
Cohen hosts her third annual Sparkle in Silver, Dream in Style Gala, a $275-a-ticket fundraiser this week at Ki Modern Japanese+Bar. Details at faceoftoday.com
What is the foundation's goal? I want to start a revolution. Building the bridge between generations and molding the leaders of tomorrow is very important to me.
How do you get youth motivated in volunteerism and philanthropy?
By creating a cause that youth can relate to and believe in. The Face of Today board and I have created a cool brand, great collection of mentors and supporters, as well as an in-novative space that excites youth to give back to the community.
Biggest challenge?
Changing peoples' expectations of me.
Biggest wish?
To make Face of Today as successful as it is in my dreams.
Biggest setback?
Coming from a privileged family, many people have a misconception of who I am and what I am about.
What does success look like?
Face of Today success is raising and distributing hundreds of thousands of dollars and changing the lives of underprivileged youth locally and globally. Personal success is health, happiness, friends and family.
Best life lesson learned?
To be true to yourself and be honest with others.
Best advice from your mom?
To confront my fears and attack them head-on.
One thing you hate most about the world?
How quick people are to judge others.
Biggest failure?
I'm guilty of being stubborn and not always listening to others.
Your secret talent?
I'm a good speech writer.
Must have item?
My cell phone.
Best place for coffee?
Army and Navy hot dog stand.
Your biggest indulgence?
Shoes and purses.
Last book read?
Goddess of Vengeance by Jackie Collins.
Favourite movie?
Pretty Woman.
Favourite pastime?
Working out.
Best thing about this city?
The outdoors. I love living a healthy lifestyle, waking up and running on the seawall on a beautiful brisk day is one of my favourite things to do.
Favourite neighbourhood?
Kitsilano. I grew up on Point Grey Road. It will forever be home to me.
Describe a perfect day?
A morning workout followed by a walk around the seawall with a close friend and coffee. Then boating and waterskiing followed by dinner on a gorgeous patio enjoying the sunset.
Who bugs you?
People who manipulate others to get what that they want.
Local person you admire most?
David Aisenstat. He has continued his father's legacy while creating his own destiny.
Most overrated person?
Paris Hilton.
If you could be any celebrity?
Oprah Winfrey.
