Welcome to the 8th episode of my legacy project, Urban Lifestyle Report Podcast and I'm your host Carolyn Morris-Walker. I am ecstatic to have Jason Faulknor-Mr. Spread Love, a multi-talented individual whose extensive talents are in many areas such as first grade teacher, a coach, an entrepreneur of a clothing brand, a former professional athlete, a model and actor as my guest on this platform that exemplifies BlackNificence & Black Excellence in our community.
Born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Jason started playing basketball at the age of 8. He went on to play basketball for the North Toronto Huskies and the Ontario Basketball Association and after he graduated from university, he played professionally in countries such as Portugal, Australia and Taiwan.
Jason graduated from Bradley University with a degree in Communications/marketing and is currently an educator with the Toronto District School Board. He continues to be involved in the community by coaching basketball, speaking to youth about attaining goals, doing basketball camps and giving back where help is needed in the Greater Toronto Area.
Urban Lifestyle Report is a place and space to showcase the many talents of Black and African people who are often invisible, not acknowledged and not celebrated in popular media for their talents, achievements and accomplishments that contributes positively to the community and the world at large.
Spread Love was an idea sparked by the goals posted on the wall of founder, Jason's co-workers. Inspired by his ambitious co-workers, he began revisiting an old idea of starting a clothing line that was positive.
So, he created a clothing line that everyone could relate to. A brand with a message that would make an impact around the world. After a few days of brainstorming and sketching, the phrase SPREAD LOVE rang loud and clear. A couple weeks later, Jason printed 17 prints and began wearing his shirt and giving shirts away.
Almost immediately people on the street began commenting and complimenting. While traveling yells of “I love your shirt”, "that’s what we need to do, Spread more Love”, and “great message” were heard regularly. Taking the positive feedback Jason decided to take it further and start the company SPREAD LOVE and ultimately a movement.
So, I am delighted when I meet people in my community who are doing amazing and outstanding work in a plethora of areas as educators, creatives, influencers, game changers, entrepreneurs, innovators, artists, founders, investors change makers, who are igniting, building and transforming our community in a variety of ways and in so many arenas.
They are engaging in these activities full-time, part-time, as a side hustle and making their passions and visions come to life. I believe the community needs to hear about YOU!
So, tune-in and enjoy the conversation!
Contact/Social Media info:
Website: https://spreadlove.ca/
IG: @spreadloveclothing; @Mr_Spreadlove
FB: Spread Love
Shout Outs:
AfroChic TO, @afrochicto:19:02
Mawuli Chai, @iluwam: 19:05
African Fashion Week, @africanfashionweek: 19:13