Philadelphian Miles Chamley-Watson, 23, made history on Friday, August 9, 2013 winning the gold at the world championships in Budapest, Hungary. He’s the first man from the U.S. to win a Senior World Fencing Championship title.
He won the men’s foil gold securing the title in a match with Russia’s Artur Akhmatkhuzin – final score: 15-6.
What inspires you to show up at work every day?
Being the best. Since I was young, I never wanted to be second at anything. My coach Simon Gershon inspires me, as well as my parents and siblings.
How did you determine your career path?
I determined my career path by my passion. Fencing has opened so many doors for me, so it was an easy career path for me.
What other industries connect to your career choice?
Fashion, modeling, music and of course sports
Describe the skill sets that are essential to future business leaders and innovators.
Traveling has taught me to deal with all different kinds of people so having great social skills is a key, as well as tough skin and a leader.
Define innovative methods you apply to your business and life.
I apply my hard work and attitude to everything I do all day.
How do you set goals and evaluate your success?
I always set my goals as high as possible, because I know that if I put my mind to it. I can achieve everything.
Who do you consider peers in your field? Who is setting a great example of best practices?
Gerek Meinhardt is one of my great peers who is great a juggling his MBA program and training at the same time. He is one of my best friends so having him on the team with me is great, because I can always ask him questions.
How do you stay abreast of changes in your field?
My determination and leadership skills have gotten me to becoming the first male world champion ever.
Name your favorite role models for success in two industries.
David Beckam, He has made a name for himself through soccer and fashion.
Sean “P-Diddy” Combs, He has made a name for himself, through music, vodka and fashion.
Names three books that changed how you saw life that you would recommend to others.
To Kill a Mockingbird
Water for Elephants
Hatchet
Explain why lifelong learning is important to you.
Because in order to grow in life you need to be able to understand all walks of life.
Describe the voice of success that you hear in your head.
I always make sure to tell myself that in order to succeed you need to understand that your desire to succeed in life should always out way your fear of failure.
Community success based on what you do in the community means what to you?
Everything because our youth in our community is our future. Even though I am only 23 I understand the importance of community.
What role does technology play in your daily life?
Technology is everything now a days. Facebook, Twitter and Instagram are great ways to gain exposure.
What software and technology tools have made the biggest difference in your life?
Facebook and Twitter have impacted my life a lot, because people can read all about me, as well as contact me if needed.
How do music and cultural events define your self-identity?
Music plays a huge role in my life. I wake up everyday to music, it changes my mood. I can always find happiness in music.
Define your personal culture.
Never following in anyone’s footsteps, always being a leader, never changing my personality because of the people around me. I have always been true to myself, I never cared about what other people were doing, only me.
Describe your favorite vacation spot.
My favorite vacation spot would have to be Miami and Jamaica.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would you change?
No racism. I am a prime example of how both black and white can be used to shine positive light on others.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would you change?
Permanently have blonde hair. J
