Sometimes, finding your focus is about more than knowing what you want to do – it’s about having the courage to keep working towards it, even if the journey isn’t clear at times.
For Toronto Raptors in-game host Kat Stefankiewicz, vision means setting a goal and having the faith and patience to see it through, regardless of the challenges that emerge along the way.
This mindset has been key to her success. Now the in-game and digital host for the Toronto Raptors, Kat talked to us about how sticking to her vision has helped her to grow her career into the leading sports personality and wellness ambassador she is today.
Check out the video and learn more about Kat below!
Daring to dream: Kat’s story
From a young age, Kat always had a clear idea of what she loved to do – it was just a matter of finding a way to channel it.
For her, it was all about creativity. She enjoyed the thrill of performing and the feeling of spreading happiness. But it wasn’t quite as simple as running head first into the spotlight.
Kat says picking a non-traditional career path came with its own set of doubts and considerations.
“It did take me time to say ‘okay, I’m going to do this – I’m going to go to music theatre school.’”
However, her passion was always more powerful than any hesitation – and it paid off.
Falling into place
Kat graduated from the Music Theatre Performance program at Sheridan College in 2006 and jumped into an exciting and eclectic career. As well as being cast in movies, commercials, and stage plays, she has carved out a place for herself as one of Canada’s favourite sports personalities.
“I think it takes time to find your vision, but once you do (and you commit to it), all the little pieces start falling into place and you find your purpose.”
It began when she joined the Toronto Raptors Dance Pak. After being with the group for five years, she took on the role of the Raptors’ in-game host and has become a much-loved part of the NBA entertainment framework.
Kat’s vision and #FindYourFocus
For Kat, vision is all about pursuing her love of performance and combining it with her passion for sport, which has led to a career path that’s accelerating towards even more exciting things.
“I pushed through and followed what my heart was telling me, and it worked out.”
Busy in the world of athletics and fitness, she’s also the Raptors’ digital host and promotes physical and mental health through her role as an adidas Ambassador. And of course, there’s the small matter of hosting the NBA All-Star Weekend for four years running…
Kat says that in order to move forward with her vision, it has been necessary to pause and take a look around her.
“I find my focus by actually stepping away from everything here and there. I find that when I take a step back and kind of take life down a notch, that’s when I can really refocus things and can jump back in.”
What does it take for you to #FindYourFocus? Share your story with us!
