We were lucky to catch up with Charlotte Batista recently and have shared our conversation below.
Charlotte , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Finding my purpose was an unexpected journey that unfolded in the midst of adversity. Four years ago, I received a devastating diagnosis of breast cancer that turned my world upside down. In the darkest moments of my treatment, I realized that I had a choice: I could let this experience define me, or I could transform my mess into a message for others.
During my own battle, the support and care I received from friends, family, and even strangers profoundly impacted my outlook. It became clear that there was a need for more personalized support for those facing the same challenges. This realization led me to channel my energy into making a difference for others on the same difficult path.
Now, as the Director of Giving for THE Breast Cancer Fundraiser nonprofit, I’ve turned my pain into purpose. We deliver care packages to newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, providing not only essential items but also a message of hope and solidarity. This role has allowed me to connect with others who are going through what I went through, turning my journey into a beacon of light for those in their darkest moments.
In essence, my purpose emerged from the depths of my own struggle. I found meaning by transforming my experience into a source of support and inspiration for others navigating the challenging terrain of breast cancer. It’s a journey that continues to evolve, but I’m grateful to have turned my personal battle into a mission of compassion and resilience.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Recently married, my husband Frankie and I have planted our roots in Marina del Rey, CA. Living here is like a dream, especially for someone like me who thrives on being outdoors, near the water. It’s pure therapy for my soul! And when the pandemic hit, those moments by the water became even more precious, reminding me to savor every little thing life throws our way.
But before I landed in this paradise of LA, my story began in the charming English town of Oxted, Surrey where I grew up. It’s a cozy little spot, just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of London. Growing up there was like stepping into the pages of a storybook, with quaint streets and charming pubs at every turn.
I love to travel, always itching for the next adventure. Give me a plane ticket and a museum pass, and I’m in my element. There’s something truly magical about immersing yourself in different cultures, tasting new foods, and soaking in the art and history of a place. Each trip feels like a new chapter in the book of my life, adding depth and color to the story.
Life hasn’t always been a walk in the park, though. In 2018, I got hit with a breast cancer diagnosis at 31 years old that turned everything upside down. It was like a wake-up call—a chance to hit the reset button and really figure out what matters most.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I started my career in the nonprofit space with no prior experience, and quite quickly, I realized the importance of seeking out experienced individuals who could serve as mentors and guides. If they weren’t readily available, I proactively tried to go out and find them. I attended events, participated in activities with other nonprofits, and engaged in networking events and research symposiums. I genuinely believe this contributed significantly to my learning and development over the last few years.
My advice for folks early in their journey: Tapping into your network and community holds significant power. It opens doors to valuable opportunities and fosters meaningful connections that can act as a driving force for personal and professional advancement. Building and nurturing relationships within your network can be a cornerstone of success, providing support, insights, and collaborative possibilities that may shape your journey in ways you hadn’t anticipated.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When the weight of the world feels heavy on my shoulders, my first step is to pause and pinpoint the source. Once I’ve identified the culprit, I’ve discovered that resetting and reorganizing are my secret weapons. It’s all too easy to get caught up in reacting to situations instead of taking proactive steps forward. So, I take a breath, step back, and develop a game plan.
Practical tools like reminders, notes, and calendar invites become my allies in staying on track. They serve as gentle nudges, guiding me through the chaos and helping me maintain focus amidst the flurry of daily life.
But perhaps the most crucial piece of advice I can offer is to give yourself grace. It’s all too easy to fall prey to the tyranny of our own expectations, to hold ourselves to impossible standards. But the truth is, many of these expectations exist solely in our minds. So, take a moment to breathe, to forgive yourself for not being perfect, and to remember that you’re doing the best you can.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlotte_e_martin/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-martin-406b6143/
Image Credits
Lex Merico Photography & Feend Media
