Blake Mycoskie

Blake Mycoskie is the founder and chief shoe giver of TOMS, and the person behind the idea of One for One, which has turned into a global movement. Since it began in 2006, TOMS has given more than ten million pairs of new shoes to children in need. The company also recently expanded its unique business model to include TOMS Eyewear, helping to save and restore sight for those in need. In the fall of 2011, Mycoskie released his first book, “Start Something That Matters,” offering his own amazing story of inspiration, and the power of incorporating giving in business. The book became a New York Times best-seller.

In 2009, Mycoskie and TOMS received the Secretary of State’s 2009 Award of Corporate Excellence (ACE). At the Clinton Global Initiative University plenary session, President Clinton introduced Mycoskie to the audience as “one of the most interesting entrepreneurs (I’ve) ever met.” People magazine featured Mycoskie in its “Heroes Among Us” section, and TOMS Shoes was featured in the Bill Gates’ Time magazine article “How to Fix Capitalism.” In 2011, Mycoskie was named on Fortune magazine’s “40 Under 40” list, recognizing him as one of the top young businessmen in the world.

Before TOMS, Mycoskie competed in the CBS primetime series, “The Amazing Race.” With his sister, Paige, he traveled the world and came within minutes of winning the $1 million dollar grand prize. Mycoskie is an avid reader and traveler. He is passionate about inspiring young people to help make tomorrow better, encouraging them to include giving in everything they do. His hope is to see a future full of social-minded businesses and consumers. @BlakeMycoskie @TOMS