Name: Wardell Malloy
Age: 40
Profession: Executive Director, Writer/Publisher Relations, BMI
One word that describes me: Determined
What does being one of the BEMM 100 Men of Distinction mean to you?
It’s an honor to be recognized as one of the BEMM 100 Men of Distinction. To be in the company of such an amazing group of black men means a lot. It’s very important to me that our youth have real positive role models. This celebration shows youth that they can be whatever they want! It also shows that you can define what success means to you.
What are some examples of how you turned struggle into success?
I moved to Los Angeles a year ago, so uprooting from New York was an interesting moment in my life. Wouldn’t call it a struggle, but it was definitely a challenge as New York is home. Between BMI, Hope For Harvest, and the number of other ventures I am involved with, I have embraced LA and the west coast as great additions to all of these experiences.
What is an important quality you look for in your relationships with others?
Loyalty, honesty, and integrity; they’re all equally important to me. You can’t have one without the others.
What are some immediate projects you are working on?
I’m currently in the midst of planning BMI’s Annual R&B/Hip Hop Awards, in addition to finding the next big songwriter/producer. On a personal side, I’m excited about the work I’m doing with the Hope For Harvest. Our mission is to assist, encourage, and educate by providing free services to the underserved and homeless youth throughout communities. I’m also continuing my personal education, as I am currently back in school studying illustration and photography. Additionally, I’m working on gospel newcomer Anaysha Figueroa’s latest project —stay tuned! I believe we must always continue to learn, inspire, and pursue our highest potential.
What is the best advice you ever received?
I’m very fortunate to be surrounded by some amazing individuals, so I always manage to pick up little nuggets. Bevy Smith always says, “Do the work.” A lot of the time, we’re so consumed with the outcome, that we’re not doing what we’re supposed to do to achieve the goal. Everything is a process, but you must get started. You must do the work! My grandma used to always say, “Never dim your light to let someone else shine”—also one of my favorites!
What is some advice you have for other men who want to make a difference?
Stand for something and be yourself. So many people are scared to stand for something and to be themselves. We all have a voice, so use it for good. Use your gifts, knowledge, and wisdom to give back to someone else. We are not on Earth for our selfish gains; we’re here to share our experiences. You never know how your experience can lift someone up. We are all role models; you never know who’s watching and learning from you.
How do you prep for an important business meeting and/or event?
Usually by reading up on topics relating to current events and the specific meetings I take. I listen to music daily, so I’m always aware of what is going on in the industry.
As a busy Modern Man, how do you unwind on vacation?
My idea of unwinding on vacation is usually with a cocktail, lots of laughs, and great company. I’ve toyed with the idea of vacationing alone, but haven’t as of yet. Being that I travel a lot for work, most times it’s the simple things in life that bring me the most joy. But if I had to say my best vacation, it would be when I went to Monaco. It was amazing!! Everything was beautiful…the water, architecture, food, everything was perfect.
If you could travel and stay anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Not sure that I would stay, but I have been dying to travel to Barcelona. Another dream of mine would be to to pack a suitcase and travel with whatever I have, carefree, and enjoy the culture of places like Amsterdam, Rome, and Paris.
Anything else you’d like to say?
I am extremely honored to be a Black Enterprise BE Modern Man, and I will continue to use my voice and experience to encourage and uplift others.
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