March 14, 2025 • 38 mins
From Boardroom to Global Impact: How One Family Foundation is Changing Lives
In this inspiring episode, Sam-Erik Ruttmann welcomes Morgan DeNicola, Executive Director of the DeNicola Family Foundation.
Discover how this dynamic leader transitioned from marketing in her family's business empire to championing global health, cultural diplomacy, and humanitarian recognition. Morgan shares powerful insights on creating sustainable impact through empathy, trust-building, and listening — proving that caring is more than just an emotion; it's an action.
Learn how the foundation's initiatives, from mobile medical vans in Malawi to cultural exchange programs with Russia and Iraq, foster positive change worldwide.
Morgan also reveals how their latest *Bright Star Award* program empowers young changemakers in schools, nurturing future leaders with compassion at the forefront.
Caring is an action, not just an emotion.
If you're seeking inspiration on how to make a meaningful difference — whether through charity, cultural diplomacy, or community involvement — this episode will leave you motivated and ready to take action.
🎧 Tune in now and discover how Morgan’s approach to philanthropy can transform the way you think about impact, compassion, and change.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:01):
Welcome to the Social Hotelier podcast with me,
Samir Grouthban.
What if the key to a better world
isn't proving we're right,
but embracing diverse perspectives?
My guest today is Morgan Dinokola,
executive director of the Dinokala Family Foundation.
She's a passionate advocate for cultural diplomacy,
(00:22):
global health, and a humanitarian
impact.
As a driving force behind the foundation,
she is dedicated to advancing world health, cultural
diplomacy,
humanitarian recognition, and conservation,
all rooted in the belief that care is
caring is an action, not just an emotion.
Working alongside global leaders and the United Nations,
(00:44):
Morgan challenges us to move beyond reaction and
truly listen.
Get ready for an insightful conversation with Morgan
that just might just change the way you
see the world. So welcome to the show,
Morgan. Glad to have you here.
Thank you. I'm I'm excited to be here
and, you know, help give people a little
bit of an insight in a a slightly
different way of looking at the world.
(01:06):
Wonderful.
So first,
I think for our audience to get some
background, can you share the story
behind the Nicola Family Foundation and what inspired
its mission, and how does it extend
the legacy of the cosmodynamical
companies?
Absolutely.
So my family,
especially my dad, Cosmo,
(01:28):
we are serial entrepreneurs.
So we've owned businesses in talent management,
software,
health care, kind of all over the place,
and,
always looking for,
you know, good opportunities
in business.
And from there, I worked with them, in
(01:49):
the Cosmo denticola companies,
mostly doing marketing, trying to promote what we
were doing in all the different,
businesses.
And from there, I was invited to actually
go to Africa with a few people that
he knew
to see an orphanage.
And in the process of being there and
(02:10):
seeing how
these children are impacted,
seeing a different place in the world,
I came back completely changed and said to
myself, I don't think that
I'm meant to be in marketing. I think
that we
are so blessed in in our businesses,
in all of the ventures that we've set
out to that it's now time for us
(02:33):
to start giving back.
And in having this conversation with Cosmo and
my mom, Janet,
he said the same thing. He's like, you
are correct. We have been so successful in
the things that we've we've done. Let's start
a little charity. So it started out as
Cosmo Cares,
very small charity that was doing small
(02:54):
outreach programs in the city of Philadelphia.
And then from there,
we gained a lot of traction in the
way we thought.
And the efforts that we were putting out,
we decided
to sell a few of our companies and
then form
the Denicola
Family Foundation, which is much larger and has
(03:14):
a global impact. So I run our family
foundation,
but I work very closely with my parents
and my entire family since we represent the
entirety of our family.
Wonderful.
So how do you prioritize
your four store core humanitarian
passions? You have world health,
(03:34):
cultural diplomacy,
humanitarian recognition, and conservation in today's global landscape.
Well, those
seem to be the four things that are
very intertwined in our family.
So we've had a lot of health issues,
mental, physically, emotionally
that we've realized everyone in the world
(03:56):
has a right
and a need for
access to health care, health care and
clean water, clean food.
So global health is at the forefront of
everything that we've really done, especially working in
the health care industry
and, you know, having our one of our
(04:16):
own businesses. We see the impact locally and
globally on health.
So that's that became something very important and
close to our family.
Then we had conservation because what is health
without our environment also being healthy? It it's
very important to have access to good food,
clean water.
(04:37):
So conservation
just kind of walks hand in hand
with global health.
And then through that, especially if you're global,
then you need cultural diplomacy. You need to
have that understanding that everywhere in the world
is different.
Everyone views things differently, approaches things differently, and
you need to have these
(04:57):
in-depth but open conversations
in order to help one another. And then
we also realize there are so many people
in this world that are doing incredible things
that sometimes need a little recognition
to need to be put at the forefront
and, like, they are doing incredible things, but
you never really hear about it. We have
a tendency, especially here in The United States,
(05:18):
hearing all the bad.
We don't hear so much about the large
groups of people that are out there doing
these incredible things. So we thought it's very
important for us all to start acknowledging,
encouraging, and helping these people that are on
the the front lines of these issues.
So those became
(05:39):
very close to our family, those four
pillars,
and also tie into a lot of our
companies.
So, we decided to kind of keep it
within those four
and also start to build our networks around
those four to try to start connecting one
another to help each other in those four
pillar with those four passions and fill pillars.
(06:00):
Yeah. Could you talk a little bit now
about, some examples of a particular project? You
mentioned,
Cosmo Cares was something how you started, but
what else are you doing in terms of
maybe on the,
international scale that people can,
get an understanding of the
your initiatives and how you go about it.
Absolutely.
(06:21):
So one of the things that we do
is we have a mobile medical van right
now in outside of Malawi,
and it brings
basic medical care to these villagers
that actually are associated to that orphanage that
I originally visited that started
our our venture.
And it was a way to
(06:42):
bring
very basic health care and basic needs to
these villagers so they understood that these children
weren't being taken out of their villages and,
you know, put in this orphanage, but there
was this
community.
So that's one of the big things we're
doing right now actually in Lesotho, Africa.
But we we work closely with the Humpty
(07:03):
Dumpty Institute. I sit as vice chair.
And
what they do is a lot of the
the cultural
global efforts. So right now, we have some
film students from,
actually,
I believe Russia, but there
there are journalists that are coming over here
(07:23):
to learn about journalism and the importance
of transparency,
and it's also to help alleviate some of
those misconcepts
of culture. So we have preconceived notions of
journalism and Russia
as well as
they have some preconceived notions of us as
Americans. So we've also done film programs with,
(07:45):
Iraq and Iran's Film Students coming over.
They go back and record and then bring
their films back to The United States.
So we do a lot with the arts
film. We've done music. We've also done food,
but our big thing is we like to
take members of congress and their staffers to
different embassies around the world that to see
(08:07):
the different
challenges that we're having,
on a global scale. So these are United
States embassies,
but they're in these other countries so we
can have an understanding of what the United
States embassies are also dealing with on foreign
lands and vice versa.
Okay. So, yeah, I like to say that
(08:27):
we're continuing the education because it's
caring. You know? It it's more than an
emotion. It's an an action.
It's one thing to feel a certain way
about what's going on globally. It's another thing
(08:49):
to to see it and know the next
steps to kind of help or resolve issues
that
might come back to The United States or
in other parts of the world. How to
see it,
prevent it, or help.
Yeah. So, I mean,
it's fantastic work, and I have to admit
that, I'm not familiar with the Humpty Dumpty
Institute. So could you help me to understand
(09:11):
what that is all about, and that will
also help the audience with listening
Yes. About this.
So they are an NGO that works with
the United Nations, member of congress,
the senate, and embassies globally. So they facilitate
a lot of dialogues.
They bring a lot of, like I said,
the art programs
(09:32):
globally, but they started out actually decommissioning
minds around the world from war torn countries
and also teaching
different cultures farming techniques,
how to feed, how to educate.
So it really depends on the place in
the world and what is being asked because
a lot of these
(09:53):
places around the world, they have very specific
needs, and they write in
saying this is what we need. Who can
help us do this? So
HDI,
Humpty Dumpty Institute, looks at these grant opportunities
and tries to see the ones that we
can help
(10:13):
right away and that we've done similar programs
that have been beneficial and very well received.
We we always take,
you know, the input of either the other
country or the participants that have done it
and continue to evolve and kind of master
different ways to work with,
our own government,
local communities, global communities, and foreign government.
(10:37):
Okay. The
I'm just, kind of because there's there's such
a broad spectrum that you're doing. I'm just
kinda I'm wondering how do you decide where
to focus your efforts on okay. Maybe you
mentioned Humpty Dumpty Institute is one part, but
there's any other part that will help you
then to say, okay. This is what we're
gonna be working on this year or, or
this, a five year plan for something.
(10:59):
Yes. So it really is the need.
So we listen to the community.
We get emails on a regular basis. This
is what we're looking for,
and we see
what kind of impact we can have and
the sustainability.
Sustainability is a very big thing
with our network and our family because
(11:21):
there there's you turn any corner, there's a
need. There's need everywhere.
It's about the programs that you can create
that will have a positive impact, but also
if you step away from it,
you can put people
in the right place to make sure it
can continue to exist
(11:43):
rather than saying, okay. I'm gonna build a
school, but then you leave the school,
and there's nothing
left for it to continue. There's there's no
other funds or people that are willing to
take it over and run it.
So what we do is
we have a very,
you know, great network locally and globally of
(12:03):
philanthropists, humanitarians
that are all interconnected,
and we all kind of
will contact one another and say,
this is what we're seeing a lot of.
We're seeing a lot of food insecurity.
Okay. Who do we know?
Where is this the most impacted?
Where can we have the best
(12:25):
opportunity to set something up that will be
well received
culturally
and continue to thrive
with boots on the ground that we can
step away from. So we can put somebody
else in charge of it because we can't
be I mean, as much as I would
love to be everywhere all at once, it's
not really possible. So you need to make
(12:46):
sure that you have people
that have a similar vision, but, obviously, difference
of opinions are wonderful. You can't always surround
yourself with people who think the same or
you won't see issues.
So you surround yourself with people who view
things differently, but you have that trust
that the main mission
will continue to go on.
(13:09):
So it's really the need and the
individuals
who who are willing
to continue to help you. Yeah.
How do you go about, like, a a
vetting a project? I'm sure you are bombarded
by requests, and there is always
must be some sort of a due diligence
that you need to go through. Is it
through your networks you have internationally, or how
(13:31):
do you I'm just got understanding of your
approach
to going going ahead with a certain project.
It's both. It's our network, but also our
own personal
due diligence. Yeah. So if there's
somebody that I hope to work with, I
do I I pretty much live on the
computer,
(13:52):
see everything that I can find out about
that individual,
things that they've accomplished, things that have been
successful, things that haven't been so successful because
we've all, you know, swung for the fences
and maybe missed here and there.
And after I do my due diligence, I
will reach out to people they know
or people that I know that know them
(14:13):
and then kinda be like, how do we
feel? Is this something that would work? What
what could be potential downfalls? What could be
potential successes?
And that's continuing to grow that network. You
know? You you have a group of people
that will be like, no. No. No. This
person's a rock
star. Oh, this is wonderful.
Let's bring them in. Let's bring them on
board. And you just continue to grow with
(14:35):
people who have that that passion to just
help one another
and thinking outside of the box or viewing
things
differently. So you just kind of continue to
grow that if you see that there's somebody
out there that you're like, this person's doing
this phenomenal.
Let me help them. Let let's continue to
elevate one another. Right. Right. Very good.
(14:56):
Yeah. So your foundation is an extension of,
Cosmo de Nicolas comp companies,
which has a diverse business portfolio as you
mentioned. How does this corporate legacy shape your
approach to philanthropy?
It's very interesting because when I first got
into the philanthropic world, I never
(15:16):
thought of it, the parallels
to business,
but it is
incredible.
A successful
charity or foundation or any real philanthropic
endeavor,
it needs to be run very similar to
a business.
And I think that that's a very difficult
(15:38):
thing
for a lot of people to realize because
you think charity, you think
some people think throwing around money, and
it it needs to be
you need to have that forethought
of, okay. This is our mission.
This is going to be our overhead.
This is the amount of money that we
have allocated for it. What are the issues
that we might see? It it's run very
(16:00):
similar.
Okay.
So the business is having that business background
helps you day to day to see things
that might be issues, to see where,
you know, you might not have
the proper tools or the proper staffing
or also where you might be spending a
(16:20):
little bit more more money than you need
to.
So,
having a lot of kind of
that merger
of charity, philanthropy, and business
is so important
to make sure that you have continued success.
Yeah.
That's that's very interesting. Yeah. That parallel.
(16:42):
So you worked with the global organizations like
United Nations and and various NGOs.
What have been some of the biggest challenges
in driving many meaningful impact on an international
scale?
Misconceptions.
I think that a lot of the issues
are we will hear of a program,
(17:03):
and
half of the population will say, well, that's
not a necessity.
But we view things through the lens of
how we live our life.
So a lot of the times,
that's the problem is
we have these preconceived
notions or visions because we are viewing it
through however we live our life.
(17:25):
And it's so important to kind of turn
that off. You you have to turn that
off. I can't tell you how many times
we've gone to different countries
and thought it was going to be one
way, and it was
completely different,
as well as preconceived notions of of needs
or wants or we project our own cultural
(17:46):
norms.
It it is just really imperative that everybody
going
kind of pockets that and and pockets our
own wants and needs
and realizes that it's not so much about
us. We need to be a clean slate
and a place where
people are
(18:08):
so comfortable showing you,
who they are and what they need without
judgment.
And I think sometimes that's very difficult for
people because our initial reaction,
you know, we we go to react rather
than respond. Yeah. And we don't take those
extra thirty seconds
to really
(18:28):
listen.
And I think listening's
way beyond just what our ears do. It's
what our brain also does and how we
are perceived.
So,
I know, especially as Americans, we have a
tendency, oh, if I get respect, I give
respect.
And it it has to be the other
way around. It has to be, I'm going
to give you respect
(18:49):
because when you initially do that and respect
those cultural's
cultural differences and respect how people live their
life,
then the the respect is
reciprocated,
and you can see a little bit more
the
the truth. Because when people
know that you respect them, they they trust
you. They trust you to see the real
(19:10):
issues and the real problems.
Yeah. I mean, you're so right. I mean,
that goes it's it's a almost like a
continuous learning experience because,
when you are working internationally, you have so
the the cultures are so different and understanding
and and developing that trust. I think that's
you really hit
the nail on the head about developing that
trust that it's
(19:31):
because you'll be tested continuously that you deserve
their respect and deserve their trust. So I
think I can imagine that is a is
a continuous effort from anyone who's doing this
valuable work that you're doing.
Absolutely. You know, there is always that voice
in the back of your head like, oh,
did you just disrespect? You know? It it
happens, but you have to constantly be like,
(19:52):
shh. You don't you don't know what's going
on. You you need to be a person
that
that is somebody that somebody wants to be
around or to tell you their most
intimate
moments of vulnerability.
So it it's so important
to really kind of
leave that behind. It will be there when
(20:12):
you're done. You can pick it right back
up. But in the meantime, just really being
a a person that listens, understands that compassion
and that that empathy
regardless of
how you live your life. It Yeah. It
one thing shouldn't really
be a necessity in helping other people.
Yeah. I mean, yes. That's that's,
such interesting and refreshing to hear that from
(20:35):
from anyone like you. Not not only to
hear it these days because we are reading
so much what's going on in the world,
and there's more always it's so polarized, and
then there's the blame factor always put on.
You're actually putting in a very positive
way of thinking and where where you can
be of help and separate, actually, needed. So
it's,
thank you for that.
(20:56):
Cultural diplomacy is a key part of your
mission in a world that often feels divided.
What role do you see it playing in
the bridging differences and fostering understanding?
I think that
people forget
that the ability
to be diplomatic, the ability to really be
(21:17):
welcoming and and empathetic
is such a superpower
of self
that we don't realize the benefit that you
have in
yourself and the ability to do this because
we really we really never know ourselves
until we experience other things, until we experience
all food. You can't say I don't like
(21:38):
this if you've never tried it. I you
can't
you won't really know yourself until you're part
of everything.
And if you have that ability and that,
I I like to say that lack of
fear. Like, love is a lack of fear.
And if you if you have that, you're
gonna learn so much about yourself and that
(22:00):
self control. We have a lot of issues
with anxiety
and depression,
and I think a lot of it is
because we don't
really know ourselves or we don't really love
ourselves. And in order to do to do
that, you have to
just be a love. You have to listen
to people. You have to accept people. You
have to really
(22:22):
kind of embrace the world to be a
global citizen.
And a lot of those fears and anxieties
start to go away. The more
difficult conversations you have, the more self control
you have. Yeah. The more understanding
you have, the more compassion you have.
So I like to tell people that it
goes beyond politics. It goes beyond
(22:45):
borders,
and it's about the human aspect of knowing
yourself,
controlling yourself.
And
the only way you can do that is
exposing yourself to everything and everyone. And you'll
see a lot of that
depression
due to lack of connection
goes away
or anxiety
goes away because you realize you can be
(23:07):
in the room with anybody
and still be a compassionate, empathetic,
understanding,
articulate
individual
that has self control.
So I I think it's just
important in your day to day
to be diplomatic,
to be understanding.
Yeah. Absolutely. I mean,
(23:29):
coming from the hotel field where I've been
always serving guests and so from the for
the last,
well, quite a long time. So, I mean,
you that's one of the probably the best
schools that I had about learning about diplomacy
because we're meeting people from all walks of
life. And then,
you have your you try to kind of
(23:50):
understand the person by listening, yes, and then
absorbing what they're saying, but also have your
antennas out to see
who they are and and what is their
intentions and
and not necessarily be very critical in the
moment. Just start from, from a zero base
and then or %, and then you just
kinda
go from there. So, I mean, yeah, I
can understand this,
(24:12):
way of thinking that you have, and I,
of course,
we live in the world right now,
where people are feel isolated. They are just,
have their headphones on, and then they don't
actually talk to body. And then
they they feel very lonely, and and there's
a lot of anxiety. So I think there's
less so much work to be done in
this this part.
(24:34):
Absolutely.
I
I feel like it's a
we're continuing
down this path of self isolation
because we have this idea of, oh, I
can't talk to this person or I can't
be around this person because of this or
that. And we kind of make
these excuses
of not engaging with one another
(24:56):
because we don't have the control or the
understanding,
but also
we then feel so isolated. And and it's
just really kind of
a a cyclical thing that we are doing
as a society really
doesn't make much sense because if we really
listen to one another, our needs and our
wants,
no matter where you're at, are the same.
(25:18):
Yeah. That's so true. That's so true. You
know, from supporting conservation efforts to humanitarian recognition,
your work spans in so many fields. Can
you share some projects or or initiatives that
has had a particular and profound impact on
you?
Yes. We have just started,
and this is gonna sound so silly, but
I'm so excited about it. It's a bright
(25:40):
star award, and it's a community award. And
we are going into grade schools,
all over,
and we're acknowledging
young
individuals that are trying to have a positive
impact on their communities
at a very young age. So we're we're
really trying to go into these schools and
have these assemblies
(26:01):
that recognize these children who are so pure
and passionate about helping one another
to recognize them. And then we also give
them, little funding
to them and their family to continue to
contribute to their communities. And it it may
seem so small,
but I am so thrilled to be doing
(26:23):
it because the the encouraging of our youth
to
really kind of be rewarded for this way
of thinking is is super important.
So I'm very excited about that, and we
are also branching
our other humanitarian
awards out into the sciences.
So different groups of people that are doing
(26:43):
research or already having positive impacts, we are
going to recognize, give an award to as
and also give them compensation to continue their
research
or whatever impact they're having on their communities
as well.
We are also kind of back to my
heritage. We are building a community center
(27:04):
in the village that my grandfather grew up
in. Oh. A lot of the residents are
are getting older,
and we want to give them a place
to go,
that has access to the Internet and other
programs
for them to just kind of be able
to have a a community center. So that's
(27:25):
a really important thing near and dear to
our hearts and also kind of keeps
us grounded to
the needs
of aging individuals, but also
their needs are much different. The cultural of
the Italians is
phenomenal. They don't really want your help, but
they they are wonderful.
(27:45):
So that's another one of the the global,
impacts that we are working on. But we
have we have a few ideas that we're
we're ironing out. We're we're not there yet,
but,
2025
will be very exciting, and we're we have
a lot of ideas for 2026.
So you'll probably see us all over the
map in in 2026.
(28:07):
Wonderful. Well, you know who to call if
you need to to get a message out.
So I'm very happy to, help you to
also to
forward the message to the to the audience
who's listening to my podcast.
That's amazing. Thank you very much.
So philanthropy
is a is an often a long long
(28:28):
game. You and requiring persistence and adaptability.
How do you measure success, and what keeps
you motivated to push forward?
It's hard to to,
I guess, put a put a ruler to
success.
I
I personally
like to see it in the people.
So if you can see the people happy
(28:51):
and engaged,
that's success.
But,
it's it's hard because it is definitely a
long run game. You don't see the impact
in what you're doing in a year
or even two years. It's normally three, four,
or five years down the road.
So we like to kind of have check-in
(29:11):
dates in each of our programs
where we'll you have to step away. You
can't. It's like watching a pot boil. You
know? You can't just watch it every day.
You have to kind of step away from
it. Trust the boots on the ground, we
like to say, that are there. So you
trust in your team.
You take a step back and kind
of go back in a year, go back
(29:34):
in two years, and see the impact of
the people.
I think that is the most important
moment because
philanthropy,
charity,
it it's a very
draining,
line of work. It it can get
very emotional.
You see needs on a daily basis. Sometimes
(29:55):
you have to say no,
and you see people kind of on their
worst day,
and that can be very difficult. You can
kind of feel
defeated
and say to yourself, well, I'm not really
having an impact because there's still this need.
And I like to say to everybody who's
out there doing that and feeling that way
(30:17):
is
just look in the eyes of one person
because you may not change the world, but
you can change the world for one person.
And that is what you need to hang
on to
is those those very
small moments
when you yourself start to feel defeated. And
just don't give up
(30:38):
because you don't know. That that's the
the beauty of life, isn't it? You don't
know
what you can accomplish until you've tried it.
You don't know what the next day is
gonna bring or the next trial.
So it's very important to hang on to
those those little steps
and just know that
(30:59):
every day you're taking a step closer
to Yeah. To making the world better better
for somebody.
Mhmm. That's wonderful.
You know, we read every day about some
areas around the world that, has where people
have,
they they have don't have a clean water
or they have,
diseases and and and other sufferings. Are there
any particular areas you mentioned Africa already. Are
(31:21):
there any other areas where you are where
where you're looking at to provide
help and support?
Where's your focus Africa?
My focus right now is Africa, but we
do have other programs
on
a larger scale.
But Africa, I just have a lot of
(31:41):
network.
So I have made a lot of friends
over the years that
are there. So if there's programs that I
want to do,
they're there to run them and on the
day to day.
But we've we've done programs in China. I
I still, there are a lot of good
programs going on in China.
(32:01):
There are a lot of
really unique programs in in Poland
that are fascinating.
I think, eventually, we would like to start
doing some South South America.
But, again, it's
need
and whether or not the culture welcomes us
and wants us. That's also a big thing.
(32:22):
You never want to
say, hey. I can help you with this,
and then, you know, certain cultures don't necessarily
want your help.
So it's a matter of just opening those
dialogues,
earning that trust, and seeing who really
wants you there.
I know we're about to do
another program in Uzbekistan,
(32:45):
So that should be very interesting,
and I know we've done some boxing programs
in
Jamaica.
I'm hoping to do more boxing programs. It
teaches women around the world how to defend
themselves.
Oh.
So that's another very interesting and also a
very interesting cultural,
(33:06):
avenue.
But,
it again,
it really depends on who's welcoming and who's
who's asking. Sure. Sure.
So in today's fast paced world, many people
want to make a difference, but do not
know where to start. What advice
would you give to someone looking to get
involved in meaningful,
(33:26):
charitable work?
Know what your passion is first.
Because, again,
seeing needs out there, it it can get
very I mean, even watching the TV here
in The United States, I was watching one
channel and there was,
I think three different causes that were asking
for your
(33:47):
30¢ donation a day, and I was just
like, oh my god. I think it's very
important to know what it is you want
to have an impact on
specifically.
So that way you don't spread yourself too
thin. Yeah. And then once you know what
it is
you want to have an impact on, start
locally.
(34:07):
That's your best way to start building
your network.
See what other people are doing and learn
from it. Learn how the things that you
think they're doing right. Learn the things that
you think that they're doing wrong. And it
doesn't necessarily you don't have to write checks.
That's not sometimes people need ideas. Sometimes people
need volunteers.
(34:28):
Get your hands dirty. It doesn't always have
to be you donating money.
Sometimes it's being an ear for somebody, a
hug, a smile.
Start very small.
Learn what's going on locally for you, and
then branch out.
See see how you could take it to
the next level. If you want to do
it overseas,
(34:48):
do your research on small groups
overseas that are doing it. It doesn't have
to be these large ones that you might
feel that there's controversy over.
Do your research on some of the smaller
guys that can really use a hand
and then build your network, build your community,
connect.
Very good.
Now looking ahead, what is your vision, for
(35:10):
the future of the the Nicola Family Foundation?
Are there any upcoming in in initiatives
or goals
you're particularly excited about? You mentioned something already,
but, I thought I'd throw in the question
anyway to see any other points you'd like
to make.
I would like us to continue to build
our network, and the only way we can
do that is to have
(35:32):
everybody reach out to get our message out
there and see who wants to be a
part of our family.
I
family's global.
So
my goal is try to reach as many
people as I can, be as welcoming as
I can, and hear
the needs of of communities.
And then from there, kind of, again, see
(35:55):
see who wants to become a part of
our family and how we can really help
one another. So
it's starting out as outreach
and involving
as many people who want to be included
and then as involved.
So that's for me personally.
My
family, my father is going all over the
place, all over.
(36:17):
I think he will be traveling
to The Middle East to visit some hospitals
to see what different hospitals are doing. I
know there's, one hospital, Sheba,
that he has,
an interest in seeing what they're doing and
how we can bring
possibly advancements in medical care
globally.
(36:37):
So,
yeah, I think our goal is just to
continue to get word-of-mouth,
and as many people involved as as possible.
Wonderful.
Well, Morgan, this has been a very
interesting, and I am, so happy that you
took the time to to tell your story
and also about
the the the vision for for the Dinokala,
(36:59):
Family Foundation and all the the tremendous work
that you're doing. So if people are interested
to find out more about your activities, how
can they find you, and where should they
go?
You can find me personally on Instagram and
Facebook. My name's right there in the corner.
Yeah. You can also find our family foundation,
(37:19):
identical family foundation
on we have our own website,
but we also are on social media. So
please do not hesitate to just start a
conversation, reach out. I run that, so you
will be getting me. I'm a person. There's
not a million strangers in between
you and I,
and I'd I would just love to start
(37:40):
these conversations
and see
the needs. Excellent. Morgeth, I appreciate you as
you join today, and and thanks for all
the fantastic insight.
You're very welcome. Thank you so much for
having me.
Thank you for tuning in to The Social
Atelier. If you enjoy this episode, please take
(38:00):
a moment to leave us a review. Give
it a thumbs up, and don't forget to
hit the subscribe button. And if you're listening,
through as a podcast,
we'd be very happy if you give us
a review,
which you have to do on Apple Play,
through your mobile device.
So we have incredible lineup of guests coming
your way. So stay tuned for more thought
provoking these conversations. And until next time, take
(38:22):
care and keep exploring.
Welcome to the Social Hotelier podcast with me,
Samir Grouthban.
What if the key to a better world
isn't proving we're right,
but embracing diverse perspectives?
My guest today is Morgan Dinokola,
executive director of the Dinokala Family Foundation.
She's a passionate advocate for cultural diplomacy,
(00:22):
global health, and a humanitarian
impact.
As a driving force behind the foundation,
she is dedicated to advancing world health, cultural
diplomacy,
humanitarian recognition, and conservation,
all rooted in the belief that care is
caring is an action, not just an emotion.
Working alongside global leaders and the United Nations,
(00:44):
Morgan challenges us to move beyond reaction and
truly listen.
Get ready for an insightful conversation with Morgan
that just might just change the way you
see the world. So welcome to the show,
Morgan. Glad to have you here.
Thank you. I'm I'm excited to be here
and, you know, help give people a little
bit of an insight in a a slightly
different way of looking at the world.
(01:06):
Wonderful.
So first,
I think for our audience to get some
background, can you share the story
behind the Nicola Family Foundation and what inspired
its mission, and how does it extend
the legacy of the cosmodynamical
companies?
Absolutely.
So my family,
especially my dad, Cosmo,
(01:28):
we are serial entrepreneurs.
So we've owned businesses in talent management,
software,
health care, kind of all over the place,
and,
always looking for,
you know, good opportunities
in business.
And from there, I worked with them, in
(01:49):
the Cosmo denticola companies,
mostly doing marketing, trying to promote what we
were doing in all the different,
businesses.
And from there, I was invited to actually
go to Africa with a few people that
he knew
to see an orphanage.
And in the process of being there and
(02:10):
seeing how
these children are impacted,
seeing a different place in the world,
I came back completely changed and said to
myself, I don't think that
I'm meant to be in marketing. I think
that we
are so blessed in in our businesses,
in all of the ventures that we've set
out to that it's now time for us
(02:33):
to start giving back.
And in having this conversation with Cosmo and
my mom, Janet,
he said the same thing. He's like, you
are correct. We have been so successful in
the things that we've we've done. Let's start
a little charity. So it started out as
Cosmo Cares,
very small charity that was doing small
(02:54):
outreach programs in the city of Philadelphia.
And then from there,
we gained a lot of traction in the
way we thought.
And the efforts that we were putting out,
we decided
to sell a few of our companies and
then form
the Denicola
Family Foundation, which is much larger and has
(03:14):
a global impact. So I run our family
foundation,
but I work very closely with my parents
and my entire family since we represent the
entirety of our family.
Wonderful.
So how do you prioritize
your four store core humanitarian
passions? You have world health,
(03:34):
cultural diplomacy,
humanitarian recognition, and conservation in today's global landscape.
Well, those
seem to be the four things that are
very intertwined in our family.
So we've had a lot of health issues,
mental, physically, emotionally
that we've realized everyone in the world
(03:56):
has a right
and a need for
access to health care, health care and
clean water, clean food.
So global health is at the forefront of
everything that we've really done, especially working in
the health care industry
and, you know, having our one of our
(04:16):
own businesses. We see the impact locally and
globally on health.
So that's that became something very important and
close to our family.
Then we had conservation because what is health
without our environment also being healthy? It it's
very important to have access to good food,
clean water.
(04:37):
So conservation
just kind of walks hand in hand
with global health.
And then through that, especially if you're global,
then you need cultural diplomacy. You need to
have that understanding that everywhere in the world
is different.
Everyone views things differently, approaches things differently, and
you need to have these
(04:57):
in-depth but open conversations
in order to help one another. And then
we also realize there are so many people
in this world that are doing incredible things
that sometimes need a little recognition
to need to be put at the forefront
and, like, they are doing incredible things, but
you never really hear about it. We have
a tendency, especially here in The United States,
(05:18):
hearing all the bad.
We don't hear so much about the large
groups of people that are out there doing
these incredible things. So we thought it's very
important for us all to start acknowledging,
encouraging, and helping these people that are on
the the front lines of these issues.
So those became
(05:39):
very close to our family, those four
pillars,
and also tie into a lot of our
companies.
So, we decided to kind of keep it
within those four
and also start to build our networks around
those four to try to start connecting one
another to help each other in those four
pillar with those four passions and fill pillars.
(06:00):
Yeah. Could you talk a little bit now
about, some examples of a particular project? You
mentioned,
Cosmo Cares was something how you started, but
what else are you doing in terms of
maybe on the,
international scale that people can,
get an understanding of the
your initiatives and how you go about it.
Absolutely.
(06:21):
So one of the things that we do
is we have a mobile medical van right
now in outside of Malawi,
and it brings
basic medical care to these villagers
that actually are associated to that orphanage that
I originally visited that started
our our venture.
And it was a way to
(06:42):
bring
very basic health care and basic needs to
these villagers so they understood that these children
weren't being taken out of their villages and,
you know, put in this orphanage, but there
was this
community.
So that's one of the big things we're
doing right now actually in Lesotho, Africa.
But we we work closely with the Humpty
(07:03):
Dumpty Institute. I sit as vice chair.
And
what they do is a lot of the
the cultural
global efforts. So right now, we have some
film students from,
actually,
I believe Russia, but there
there are journalists that are coming over here
(07:23):
to learn about journalism and the importance
of transparency,
and it's also to help alleviate some of
those misconcepts
of culture. So we have preconceived notions of
journalism and Russia
as well as
they have some preconceived notions of us as
Americans. So we've also done film programs with,
(07:45):
Iraq and Iran's Film Students coming over.
They go back and record and then bring
their films back to The United States.
So we do a lot with the arts
film. We've done music. We've also done food,
but our big thing is we like to
take members of congress and their staffers to
different embassies around the world that to see
(08:07):
the different
challenges that we're having,
on a global scale. So these are United
States embassies,
but they're in these other countries so we
can have an understanding of what the United
States embassies are also dealing with on foreign
lands and vice versa.
Okay. So, yeah, I like to say that
(08:27):
we're continuing the education because it's
caring. You know? It it's more than an
emotion. It's an an action.
It's one thing to feel a certain way
about what's going on globally. It's another thing
(08:49):
to to see it and know the next
steps to kind of help or resolve issues
that
might come back to The United States or
in other parts of the world. How to
see it,
prevent it, or help.
Yeah. So, I mean,
it's fantastic work, and I have to admit
that, I'm not familiar with the Humpty Dumpty
Institute. So could you help me to understand
(09:11):
what that is all about, and that will
also help the audience with listening
Yes. About this.
So they are an NGO that works with
the United Nations, member of congress,
the senate, and embassies globally. So they facilitate
a lot of dialogues.
They bring a lot of, like I said,
the art programs
(09:32):
globally, but they started out actually decommissioning
minds around the world from war torn countries
and also teaching
different cultures farming techniques,
how to feed, how to educate.
So it really depends on the place in
the world and what is being asked because
a lot of these
(09:53):
places around the world, they have very specific
needs, and they write in
saying this is what we need. Who can
help us do this? So
HDI,
Humpty Dumpty Institute, looks at these grant opportunities
and tries to see the ones that we
can help
(10:13):
right away and that we've done similar programs
that have been beneficial and very well received.
We we always take,
you know, the input of either the other
country or the participants that have done it
and continue to evolve and kind of master
different ways to work with,
our own government,
local communities, global communities, and foreign government.
(10:37):
Okay. The
I'm just, kind of because there's there's such
a broad spectrum that you're doing. I'm just
kinda I'm wondering how do you decide where
to focus your efforts on okay. Maybe you
mentioned Humpty Dumpty Institute is one part, but
there's any other part that will help you
then to say, okay. This is what we're
gonna be working on this year or, or
this, a five year plan for something.
(10:59):
Yes. So it really is the need.
So we listen to the community.
We get emails on a regular basis. This
is what we're looking for,
and we see
what kind of impact we can have and
the sustainability.
Sustainability is a very big thing
with our network and our family because
(11:21):
there there's you turn any corner, there's a
need. There's need everywhere.
It's about the programs that you can create
that will have a positive impact, but also
if you step away from it,
you can put people
in the right place to make sure it
can continue to exist
(11:43):
rather than saying, okay. I'm gonna build a
school, but then you leave the school,
and there's nothing
left for it to continue. There's there's no
other funds or people that are willing to
take it over and run it.
So what we do is
we have a very,
you know, great network locally and globally of
(12:03):
philanthropists, humanitarians
that are all interconnected,
and we all kind of
will contact one another and say,
this is what we're seeing a lot of.
We're seeing a lot of food insecurity.
Okay. Who do we know?
Where is this the most impacted?
Where can we have the best
(12:25):
opportunity to set something up that will be
well received
culturally
and continue to thrive
with boots on the ground that we can
step away from. So we can put somebody
else in charge of it because we can't
be I mean, as much as I would
love to be everywhere all at once, it's
not really possible. So you need to make
(12:46):
sure that you have people
that have a similar vision, but, obviously, difference
of opinions are wonderful. You can't always surround
yourself with people who think the same or
you won't see issues.
So you surround yourself with people who view
things differently, but you have that trust
that the main mission
will continue to go on.
(13:09):
So it's really the need and the
individuals
who who are willing
to continue to help you. Yeah.
How do you go about, like, a a
vetting a project? I'm sure you are bombarded
by requests, and there is always
must be some sort of a due diligence
that you need to go through. Is it
through your networks you have internationally, or how
(13:31):
do you I'm just got understanding of your
approach
to going going ahead with a certain project.
It's both. It's our network, but also our
own personal
due diligence. Yeah. So if there's
somebody that I hope to work with, I
do I I pretty much live on the
computer,
(13:52):
see everything that I can find out about
that individual,
things that they've accomplished, things that have been
successful, things that haven't been so successful because
we've all, you know, swung for the fences
and maybe missed here and there.
And after I do my due diligence, I
will reach out to people they know
or people that I know that know them
(14:13):
and then kinda be like, how do we
feel? Is this something that would work? What
what could be potential downfalls? What could be
potential successes?
And that's continuing to grow that network. You
know? You you have a group of people
that will be like, no. No. No. This
person's a rock
star. Oh, this is wonderful.
Let's bring them in. Let's bring them on
board. And you just continue to grow with
(14:35):
people who have that that passion to just
help one another
and thinking outside of the box or viewing
things
differently. So you just kind of continue to
grow that if you see that there's somebody
out there that you're like, this person's doing
this phenomenal.
Let me help them. Let let's continue to
elevate one another. Right. Right. Very good.
(14:56):
Yeah. So your foundation is an extension of,
Cosmo de Nicolas comp companies,
which has a diverse business portfolio as you
mentioned. How does this corporate legacy shape your
approach to philanthropy?
It's very interesting because when I first got
into the philanthropic world, I never
(15:16):
thought of it, the parallels
to business,
but it is
incredible.
A successful
charity or foundation or any real philanthropic
endeavor,
it needs to be run very similar to
a business.
And I think that that's a very difficult
(15:38):
thing
for a lot of people to realize because
you think charity, you think
some people think throwing around money, and
it it needs to be
you need to have that forethought
of, okay. This is our mission.
This is going to be our overhead.
This is the amount of money that we
have allocated for it. What are the issues
that we might see? It it's run very
(16:00):
similar.
Okay.
So the business is having that business background
helps you day to day to see things
that might be issues, to see where,
you know, you might not have
the proper tools or the proper staffing
or also where you might be spending a
(16:20):
little bit more more money than you need
to.
So,
having a lot of kind of
that merger
of charity, philanthropy, and business
is so important
to make sure that you have continued success.
Yeah.
That's that's very interesting. Yeah. That parallel.
(16:42):
So you worked with the global organizations like
United Nations and and various NGOs.
What have been some of the biggest challenges
in driving many meaningful impact on an international
scale?
Misconceptions.
I think that a lot of the issues
are we will hear of a program,
(17:03):
and
half of the population will say, well, that's
not a necessity.
But we view things through the lens of
how we live our life.
So a lot of the times,
that's the problem is
we have these preconceived
notions or visions because we are viewing it
through however we live our life.
(17:25):
And it's so important to kind of turn
that off. You you have to turn that
off. I can't tell you how many times
we've gone to different countries
and thought it was going to be one
way, and it was
completely different,
as well as preconceived notions of of needs
or wants or we project our own cultural
(17:46):
norms.
It it is just really imperative that everybody
going
kind of pockets that and and pockets our
own wants and needs
and realizes that it's not so much about
us. We need to be a clean slate
and a place where
people are
(18:08):
so comfortable showing you,
who they are and what they need without
judgment.
And I think sometimes that's very difficult for
people because our initial reaction,
you know, we we go to react rather
than respond. Yeah. And we don't take those
extra thirty seconds
to really
(18:28):
listen.
And I think listening's
way beyond just what our ears do. It's
what our brain also does and how we
are perceived.
So,
I know, especially as Americans, we have a
tendency, oh, if I get respect, I give
respect.
And it it has to be the other
way around. It has to be, I'm going
to give you respect
(18:49):
because when you initially do that and respect
those cultural's
cultural differences and respect how people live their
life,
then the the respect is
reciprocated,
and you can see a little bit more
the
the truth. Because when people
know that you respect them, they they trust
you. They trust you to see the real
(19:10):
issues and the real problems.
Yeah. I mean, you're so right. I mean,
that goes it's it's a almost like a
continuous learning experience because,
when you are working internationally, you have so
the the cultures are so different and understanding
and and developing that trust. I think that's
you really hit
the nail on the head about developing that
trust that it's
(19:31):
because you'll be tested continuously that you deserve
their respect and deserve their trust. So I
think I can imagine that is a is
a continuous effort from anyone who's doing this
valuable work that you're doing.
Absolutely. You know, there is always that voice
in the back of your head like, oh,
did you just disrespect? You know? It it
happens, but you have to constantly be like,
(19:52):
shh. You don't you don't know what's going
on. You you need to be a person
that
that is somebody that somebody wants to be
around or to tell you their most
intimate
moments of vulnerability.
So it it's so important
to really kind of
leave that behind. It will be there when
(20:12):
you're done. You can pick it right back
up. But in the meantime, just really being
a a person that listens, understands that compassion
and that that empathy
regardless of
how you live your life. It Yeah. It
one thing shouldn't really
be a necessity in helping other people.
Yeah. I mean, yes. That's that's,
such interesting and refreshing to hear that from
(20:35):
from anyone like you. Not not only to
hear it these days because we are reading
so much what's going on in the world,
and there's more always it's so polarized, and
then there's the blame factor always put on.
You're actually putting in a very positive
way of thinking and where where you can
be of help and separate, actually, needed. So
it's,
thank you for that.
(20:56):
Cultural diplomacy is a key part of your
mission in a world that often feels divided.
What role do you see it playing in
the bridging differences and fostering understanding?
I think that
people forget
that the ability
to be diplomatic, the ability to really be
(21:17):
welcoming and and empathetic
is such a superpower
of self
that we don't realize the benefit that you
have in
yourself and the ability to do this because
we really we really never know ourselves
until we experience other things, until we experience
all food. You can't say I don't like
(21:38):
this if you've never tried it. I you
can't
you won't really know yourself until you're part
of everything.
And if you have that ability and that,
I I like to say that lack of
fear. Like, love is a lack of fear.
And if you if you have that, you're
gonna learn so much about yourself and that
(22:00):
self control. We have a lot of issues
with anxiety
and depression,
and I think a lot of it is
because we don't
really know ourselves or we don't really love
ourselves. And in order to do to do
that, you have to
just be a love. You have to listen
to people. You have to accept people. You
have to really
(22:22):
kind of embrace the world to be a
global citizen.
And a lot of those fears and anxieties
start to go away. The more
difficult conversations you have, the more self control
you have. Yeah. The more understanding
you have, the more compassion you have.
So I like to tell people that it
goes beyond politics. It goes beyond
(22:45):
borders,
and it's about the human aspect of knowing
yourself,
controlling yourself.
And
the only way you can do that is
exposing yourself to everything and everyone. And you'll
see a lot of that
depression
due to lack of connection
goes away
or anxiety
goes away because you realize you can be
(23:07):
in the room with anybody
and still be a compassionate, empathetic,
understanding,
articulate
individual
that has self control.
So I I think it's just
important in your day to day
to be diplomatic,
to be understanding.
Yeah. Absolutely. I mean,
(23:29):
coming from the hotel field where I've been
always serving guests and so from the for
the last,
well, quite a long time. So, I mean,
you that's one of the probably the best
schools that I had about learning about diplomacy
because we're meeting people from all walks of
life. And then,
you have your you try to kind of
(23:50):
understand the person by listening, yes, and then
absorbing what they're saying, but also have your
antennas out to see
who they are and and what is their
intentions and
and not necessarily be very critical in the
moment. Just start from, from a zero base
and then or %, and then you just
kinda
go from there. So, I mean, yeah, I
can understand this,
(24:12):
way of thinking that you have, and I,
of course,
we live in the world right now,
where people are feel isolated. They are just,
have their headphones on, and then they don't
actually talk to body. And then
they they feel very lonely, and and there's
a lot of anxiety. So I think there's
less so much work to be done in
this this part.
(24:34):
Absolutely.
I
I feel like it's a
we're continuing
down this path of self isolation
because we have this idea of, oh, I
can't talk to this person or I can't
be around this person because of this or
that. And we kind of make
these excuses
of not engaging with one another
(24:56):
because we don't have the control or the
understanding,
but also
we then feel so isolated. And and it's
just really kind of
a a cyclical thing that we are doing
as a society really
doesn't make much sense because if we really
listen to one another, our needs and our
wants,
no matter where you're at, are the same.
(25:18):
Yeah. That's so true. That's so true. You
know, from supporting conservation efforts to humanitarian recognition,
your work spans in so many fields. Can
you share some projects or or initiatives that
has had a particular and profound impact on
you?
Yes. We have just started,
and this is gonna sound so silly, but
I'm so excited about it. It's a bright
(25:40):
star award, and it's a community award. And
we are going into grade schools,
all over,
and we're acknowledging
young
individuals that are trying to have a positive
impact on their communities
at a very young age. So we're we're
really trying to go into these schools and
have these assemblies
(26:01):
that recognize these children who are so pure
and passionate about helping one another
to recognize them. And then we also give
them, little funding
to them and their family to continue to
contribute to their communities. And it it may
seem so small,
but I am so thrilled to be doing
(26:23):
it because the the encouraging of our youth
to
really kind of be rewarded for this way
of thinking is is super important.
So I'm very excited about that, and we
are also branching
our other humanitarian
awards out into the sciences.
So different groups of people that are doing
(26:43):
research or already having positive impacts, we are
going to recognize, give an award to as
and also give them compensation to continue their
research
or whatever impact they're having on their communities
as well.
We are also kind of back to my
heritage. We are building a community center
(27:04):
in the village that my grandfather grew up
in. Oh. A lot of the residents are
are getting older,
and we want to give them a place
to go,
that has access to the Internet and other
programs
for them to just kind of be able
to have a a community center. So that's
(27:25):
a really important thing near and dear to
our hearts and also kind of keeps
us grounded to
the needs
of aging individuals, but also
their needs are much different. The cultural of
the Italians is
phenomenal. They don't really want your help, but
they they are wonderful.
(27:45):
So that's another one of the the global,
impacts that we are working on. But we
have we have a few ideas that we're
we're ironing out. We're we're not there yet,
but,
2025
will be very exciting, and we're we have
a lot of ideas for 2026.
So you'll probably see us all over the
map in in 2026.
(28:07):
Wonderful. Well, you know who to call if
you need to to get a message out.
So I'm very happy to, help you to
also to
forward the message to the to the audience
who's listening to my podcast.
That's amazing. Thank you very much.
So philanthropy
is a is an often a long long
(28:28):
game. You and requiring persistence and adaptability.
How do you measure success, and what keeps
you motivated to push forward?
It's hard to to,
I guess, put a put a ruler to
success.
I
I personally
like to see it in the people.
So if you can see the people happy
(28:51):
and engaged,
that's success.
But,
it's it's hard because it is definitely a
long run game. You don't see the impact
in what you're doing in a year
or even two years. It's normally three, four,
or five years down the road.
So we like to kind of have check-in
(29:11):
dates in each of our programs
where we'll you have to step away. You
can't. It's like watching a pot boil. You
know? You can't just watch it every day.
You have to kind of step away from
it. Trust the boots on the ground, we
like to say, that are there. So you
trust in your team.
You take a step back and kind
of go back in a year, go back
(29:34):
in two years, and see the impact of
the people.
I think that is the most important
moment because
philanthropy,
charity,
it it's a very
draining,
line of work. It it can get
very emotional.
You see needs on a daily basis. Sometimes
(29:55):
you have to say no,
and you see people kind of on their
worst day,
and that can be very difficult. You can
kind of feel
defeated
and say to yourself, well, I'm not really
having an impact because there's still this need.
And I like to say to everybody who's
out there doing that and feeling that way
(30:17):
is
just look in the eyes of one person
because you may not change the world, but
you can change the world for one person.
And that is what you need to hang
on to
is those those very
small moments
when you yourself start to feel defeated. And
just don't give up
(30:38):
because you don't know. That that's the
the beauty of life, isn't it? You don't
know
what you can accomplish until you've tried it.
You don't know what the next day is
gonna bring or the next trial.
So it's very important to hang on to
those those little steps
and just know that
(30:59):
every day you're taking a step closer
to Yeah. To making the world better better
for somebody.
Mhmm. That's wonderful.
You know, we read every day about some
areas around the world that, has where people
have,
they they have don't have a clean water
or they have,
diseases and and and other sufferings. Are there
any particular areas you mentioned Africa already. Are
(31:21):
there any other areas where you are where
where you're looking at to provide
help and support?
Where's your focus Africa?
My focus right now is Africa, but we
do have other programs
on
a larger scale.
But Africa, I just have a lot of
(31:41):
network.
So I have made a lot of friends
over the years that
are there. So if there's programs that I
want to do,
they're there to run them and on the
day to day.
But we've we've done programs in China. I
I still, there are a lot of good
programs going on in China.
(32:01):
There are a lot of
really unique programs in in Poland
that are fascinating.
I think, eventually, we would like to start
doing some South South America.
But, again, it's
need
and whether or not the culture welcomes us
and wants us. That's also a big thing.
(32:22):
You never want to
say, hey. I can help you with this,
and then, you know, certain cultures don't necessarily
want your help.
So it's a matter of just opening those
dialogues,
earning that trust, and seeing who really
wants you there.
I know we're about to do
another program in Uzbekistan,
(32:45):
So that should be very interesting,
and I know we've done some boxing programs
in
Jamaica.
I'm hoping to do more boxing programs. It
teaches women around the world how to defend
themselves.
Oh.
So that's another very interesting and also a
very interesting cultural,
(33:06):
avenue.
But,
it again,
it really depends on who's welcoming and who's
who's asking. Sure. Sure.
So in today's fast paced world, many people
want to make a difference, but do not
know where to start. What advice
would you give to someone looking to get
involved in meaningful,
(33:26):
charitable work?
Know what your passion is first.
Because, again,
seeing needs out there, it it can get
very I mean, even watching the TV here
in The United States, I was watching one
channel and there was,
I think three different causes that were asking
for your
(33:47):
30¢ donation a day, and I was just
like, oh my god. I think it's very
important to know what it is you want
to have an impact on
specifically.
So that way you don't spread yourself too
thin. Yeah. And then once you know what
it is
you want to have an impact on, start
locally.
(34:07):
That's your best way to start building
your network.
See what other people are doing and learn
from it. Learn how the things that you
think they're doing right. Learn the things that
you think that they're doing wrong. And it
doesn't necessarily you don't have to write checks.
That's not sometimes people need ideas. Sometimes people
need volunteers.
(34:28):
Get your hands dirty. It doesn't always have
to be you donating money.
Sometimes it's being an ear for somebody, a
hug, a smile.
Start very small.
Learn what's going on locally for you, and
then branch out.
See see how you could take it to
the next level. If you want to do
it overseas,
(34:48):
do your research on small groups
overseas that are doing it. It doesn't have
to be these large ones that you might
feel that there's controversy over.
Do your research on some of the smaller
guys that can really use a hand
and then build your network, build your community,
connect.
Very good.
Now looking ahead, what is your vision, for
(35:10):
the future of the the Nicola Family Foundation?
Are there any upcoming in in initiatives
or goals
you're particularly excited about? You mentioned something already,
but, I thought I'd throw in the question
anyway to see any other points you'd like
to make.
I would like us to continue to build
our network, and the only way we can
do that is to have
(35:32):
everybody reach out to get our message out
there and see who wants to be a
part of our family.
I
family's global.
So
my goal is try to reach as many
people as I can, be as welcoming as
I can, and hear
the needs of of communities.
And then from there, kind of, again, see
(35:55):
see who wants to become a part of
our family and how we can really help
one another. So
it's starting out as outreach
and involving
as many people who want to be included
and then as involved.
So that's for me personally.
My
family, my father is going all over the
place, all over.
(36:17):
I think he will be traveling
to The Middle East to visit some hospitals
to see what different hospitals are doing. I
know there's, one hospital, Sheba,
that he has,
an interest in seeing what they're doing and
how we can bring
possibly advancements in medical care
globally.
(36:37):
So,
yeah, I think our goal is just to
continue to get word-of-mouth,
and as many people involved as as possible.
Wonderful.
Well, Morgan, this has been a very
interesting, and I am, so happy that you
took the time to to tell your story
and also about
the the the vision for for the Dinokala,
(36:59):
Family Foundation and all the the tremendous work
that you're doing. So if people are interested
to find out more about your activities, how
can they find you, and where should they
go?
You can find me personally on Instagram and
Facebook. My name's right there in the corner.
Yeah. You can also find our family foundation,
(37:19):
identical family foundation
on we have our own website,
but we also are on social media. So
please do not hesitate to just start a
conversation, reach out. I run that, so you
will be getting me. I'm a person. There's
not a million strangers in between
you and I,
and I'd I would just love to start
(37:40):
these conversations
and see
the needs. Excellent. Morgeth, I appreciate you as
you join today, and and thanks for all
the fantastic insight.
You're very welcome. Thank you so much for
having me.
Thank you for tuning in to The Social
Atelier. If you enjoy this episode, please take
(38:00):
a moment to leave us a review. Give
it a thumbs up, and don't forget to
hit the subscribe button. And if you're listening,
through as a podcast,
we'd be very happy if you give us
a review,
which you have to do on Apple Play,
through your mobile device.
So we have incredible lineup of guests coming
your way. So stay tuned for more thought
provoking these conversations. And until next time, take
(38:22):
care and keep exploring.
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.