In this exclusive Q&A, Valerie Johnstone, Horizon Asia Educational Association founder, shares how motherhood has shaped her journey and offers advice to other mothers interested in starting their own nonprofit or getting involved in community service.

Balancing Motherhood and Running a Nonprofit

Balancing motherhood and running a nonprofit is both challenging and rewarding. I try to involve my children in my work as much as possible, which helps bridge my roles as a mother and a leader. By seeing firsthand what I do, they learn about giving back to the community, and it also allows me to spend time with them while pursuing my passion for education and empowerment.

At home, I’ve created a system that keeps me organized. I have several boards in my home office where I list to-dos for my family, the NGO, and our business. Keeping everything in one place and visible at all times helps me ensure I don’t neglect any responsibilities.

Admittedly, I sometimes overdo it—I remember having a class with my indigenous students just a few hours before my scheduled C-section. And then, only a few days after leaving the hospital, I was back teaching again. But it works because I find so much joy in empowering my students. Teaching and running the organization isn’t energy-draining; it’s energizing. The fulfillment I get from seeing my students grow keeps me motivated and excited, even when balancing everything feels overwhelming.

It’s not always easy, but I believe when you’re passionate about what you’re doing, you find ways to make it work. Being a mother makes the work even more meaningful, knowing that I’m building something positive for the next generation, including my own children.

Advice for Mothers Starting a Nonprofit or Community Service

My biggest piece of advice is simple: go for it. Just like with anything else, you’ll figure it out along the way. We live in a time where women can encompass it all—being mothers, leaders, and changemakers. Of course, it depends on your energy levels and how much you’re ready to commit, but if you believe in your mission with all your heart and find energy in getting things done, it will be easier than you imagine.

Starting a nonprofit or getting involved in community service isn’t just fulfilling for you; it sets a powerful example for your children. When they see you doing good for others, it gives them a strong moral compass. Engage your kids in your work as much as possible. I’ve taken my son on humanitarian missions when he was younger, and he had the most incredible experiences—bonding with new friends, learning from different cultures, and understanding the importance of helping others.

Involving your children in this kind of work not only teaches them empathy and social responsibility, but it also allows you to share special moments as a family while making a difference. There’s something deeply empowering about standing up for what’s right, and when your children witness that firsthand, it helps them grow into compassionate, socially-conscious individuals.

The Influence of Motherhood on Program Development

Motherhood has been one of my greatest motivators. I want to build a better world for my children, and that desire drives everything I do. When I think of my daughter and son, I imagine them growing up and crossing paths with individuals whose lives we’ve impacted through our programs. That thought gives me an even deeper sense of purpose.

Knowing that the world my children will inherit is shared with these young learners strengthens my commitment to creating educational opportunities for all. I can’t imagine parenting without doing something to support other kids growing up alongside mine. My hope is for every child to have the tools they need to thrive, just as I want for my own family. It’s this personal connection that fuels my passion for education and motivates me to keep striving for a brighter future for all.

Final Thoughts

Valerie’s story highlights the beautiful intersection between motherhood and leadership. For anyone considering starting their own nonprofit or getting involved in community service, Valerie’s journey offers an empowering reminder: if you believe in your mission and are ready to commit, the possibilities are endless. Together, we can all contribute to creating a brighter future for the next generation.