Marc Soberano has a vision for transforming the city of Toronto and its workforce by providing great jobs to those in need while bolstering the green economy. Inspired by the social enterprise movement, the 26-year old entrepreneur founded Building Up in 2014.
“Some people were born on third base and think they hit a triple. Whereas that was just a situation they were born into. And there are a lot of guys that haven’t made it to first base yet, and it’s not their fault,” says Marc.
“What Building Up tries to do is get everyone to third base. Get everyone onto an even playing field so that they then have the opportunity to take the next step themselves.”
With an 80-90% success rate in finding employment, Building Up graduates are reaping the fruits of this next generation business. [see below for an inspiring video on one of Building Up’s trainees]
“Most of these people would otherwise get caught up in a situation where they’re in and out of jail,” says Marc. “But here they get the skills and the job.”
Marc’s non-profit also focuses on green solutions. In low-income housing units across the city, Building Up workers can be found installing energy-efficient toilets, showers and sinks. Not only clean and green, the cost savings provide for quick payback on investments.
Marc keeps busy out of the city as well. On free weekends he continues his love for the outdoors and can be found paddling on one of Canada’s many rivers. Tales from his cross-Canada tour can be found here: www.paddleacrosscanadatour.org.
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