Charbel Aoun, the Founding Executive Director of the Georgia First Generation Foundation, champions first-generation student success within Gwinnett County. He acquired a Psychology Bachelor of Science degree as a Coca-Cola First Generation Scholar, which unveiled the difficulties faced by first-generation students and ignited his enthusiasm for their achievements. By pursuing Master’s degrees in Biomedical Sciences and Organizational Development & Leadership, he established a solid base for instigating change.
Currently pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, Charbel connects healthcare and education. Co-founding Georgia FirstGen empowers him to lead and advocate, making a significant impact. Actively involved in professional organizations and community initiatives, he remains connected and excels academically. His personal journey, academic pursuits, and unwavering commitment drive his passion to bolster the success of younger students in higher education.
Below are highlights of the interview conducted between World’s Leaders and Charbel Aoun:
Describe who you are as a person, inside and outside of the workplace.
Driven by a profound commitment to fostering success for first-generation students and advocating for healthcare equity, my personal background as a first-generation college student from a Middle Eastern immigrant family shape my dedication to ensuring younger students’ success in higher education. As a Pharmacy Student, I have found a deep connection with the world of pharmacy, driven by its advocacy work, teaching opportunities, and alignment with my interests in science, human connection, and service. Being named one of Atlanta’s 30 Under 30 by the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Atlanta, one of Gwinnett’s 35 Under 35 by Gwinnett Young Professionals, and a recipient of Georgia State University’s 40 Under 40 has been a humbling and gratifying recognition, highlighting the impact of my efforts and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. Additionally, as a FirstGen Advocate, I understand the real barriers students face in achieving a college education, and under my leadership, Georgia FirstGen has made significant strides in mentorship and community engagement, resulting in a strong network of over 350 students receiving over $270,000 in scholarship funds and contributing over 125,000 hours to community projects and volunteering efforts, recognized by the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce for our impactful work in the nonprofit sector.
Tell us about the inception of the company. How did it all start?
Georgia FirstGen originated as a student organization at Georgia State University, founded to unite first-generation college students facing barriers and lacking resources. The club gained momentum after participating in an entrepreneurship pitch competition and transitioning into a nonprofit organization. Since 2016, Georgia FirstGen has empowered first-generation students by providing resources, mentorship, and community engagement. The organization’s vision was to create a platform for students to connect with mentors and achieve their goals. Georgia FirstGen has grown into a reputable nonprofit, offering mentorship, scholarships, and community support, as recognized by the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. The organization remains dedicated to empowering first-generation students and fostering a sense of community and belonging.
What has made you successful? What do you value?
The success of Georgia FirstGen stems from a combination of factors that have propelled its growth and impact. My unwavering commitment to the organization’s mission and a deep passion for inclusivity and equity have been instrumental in driving our achievements. I firmly believe that true success arises from an authentic and relentless dedication to the cause we serve. In addition, core values such as transparency, accountability, and community engagement are significant at Georgia FirstGen. We prioritize transparency in our operations and actively share our impact with stakeholders, fostering trust and garnering support from our community. These values have increased recognition and access to resources for our programs. I uphold values of empathy, integrity, and continuous learning, which shape my decision-making and interactions. I firmly believe in the power of collaboration and the strength of embracing diverse perspectives. Through this collective effort, we have achieved the remarkable success witnessed at Georgia FirstGen.
Which are the major services of the company, and how does the company get ahead in the competition? What value-added services does the company provide?
Georgia FirstGen offers a range of services and resources to support the success of first-generation students in higher education. Through our mentorship program, students are connected with experienced mentors who provide personalized guidance and support throughout their academic journey. Community engagement initiatives promote civic responsibility, skill development, and networking opportunities. Our scholarship programs help alleviate financial barriers for deserving students. To stand out, we prioritize meaningful connections between mentors and students, focus on sustainable community impact, and offer value-added services such as workshops and networking opportunities. Our comprehensive approach addresses first-generation students’ unique needs and challenges, empowering them to explore diverse career pathways and achieve their goals.
What are the most important aspects of a company’s culture? What principles do you believe in, and how do you build this culture?
At Georgia FirstGen, our company culture revolves around inclusivity, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose. We create an inclusive environment where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered, embracing diverse perspectives and backgrounds. Collaboration is key, both internally and externally, as we leverage our collective strengths to maximize our impact. Open communication, transparency, and trust are paramount, with regular team meetings, feedback sessions, and growth opportunities fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere. We celebrate achievements and milestones, reinforcing our culture of encouragement and motivation.
What is the significance of innovative ideas in the company?
Innovation is a cornerstone of Georgia FirstGen’s success and sustainability. Recognizing the evolving needs of first-generation students, we embrace creative and forward-thinking solutions. We encourage innovative ideas from team members, students, and stakeholders, fostering a culture adaptable to the changing higher education landscape. By leveraging innovation, we develop new approaches, programs, and services to better meet the unique needs of first-generation students. Continuously improving our impact and finding creative solutions, we stay ahead, anticipate challenges, and seize opportunities.
Give us your opinion on; do organizations rely heavily on individual heroics or team processes?
In the context of individual heroics versus team processes, I firmly believe in the power of teamwork, and Georgia FirstGen shares this perspective. While individual contributions hold value, a well-functioning team’s collective effort and synergy drive true success. Relying solely on individual heroics can lead to siloed approaches and overshadow others’ contributions. We foster collaboration, creativity, and collective ownership of outcomes by prioritizing team processes. At Georgia FirstGen, we emphasize open communication, knowledge sharing, and mutual support, harnessing our team’s collective talents and strengths for a far-reaching impact. We celebrate collective successes and ensure everyone has a voice within our collaborative culture.
What are your responsibilities in your position in the company? What is the happiest part of your daily routine?
As the Executive Director of Georgia FirstGen, I lead and manage the organization. This includes overseeing our strategic direction, ensuring alignment with our mission and objectives, and managing our team to foster a positive work culture. Building and maintaining partnerships with educational institutions and community organizations is a crucial aspect of my role, advocating for the needs of first-generation students. Engaging with our students and witnessing their growth and success brings me immense joy, whether through mentorship sessions, student-led events, or their stories of resilience. It serves as a constant reminder of our mission’s significance and our positive impact on their lives.
What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time?
Aspiring leaders should focus on building relationships, embracing a growth mindset, leading by example, empowering, and delegating to their team, fostering a positive work culture, staying focused on the organization’s mission, seeking mentorship and guidance, and practicing self-care. These principles enable leaders to inspire their teams, drive meaningful change, and create a positive impact within their organizations. Leaders can foster collaboration, innovation, and trust by establishing open communication, encouraging continuous learning, and demonstrating values and work ethics. Empowering team members, maintaining a positive work culture, and aligning actions with the organization’s mission further contribute to their success. Seeking guidance from mentors, practicing self-care, and maintaining work-life balance ensure their well-being and long-term effectiveness as leaders.
