Hi, I’m Mark Papadas, author, speaker, trainer and founder of I AM 4 Kids™, an innovative children’s empowerment program that is revolutionizing education. After years of training and coaching adults, I’m delivering those same self-empowerment tools to children.
I’ve been blessed to work in the self development field for over 20 years, working with and for such leaders as Brian Tracy, Zig Ziglar and Anthony Robbins. I’ve been witness to countless success stories by those who realize their power and achieve their goals using proven tools and strategies.
When I was introduced to the concepts of personal growth and self-empowerment in high school, I was immediately hooked. Growing up in the 70’s, both my parents worked hard to keep us fed and make ends meet. Frequently, I was in the care of two older brothers – one of which often got his point across with his fists. Many times, I was beaten severely. While it was a difficult period growing up, I learned to control my mind and look inward for strength. Those tough childhood years are the threads that help me relate to the challenges many children face today.
Just a few years ago, I overheard a question that was to be the turning point in my life’s work. During a conversation, the topic turned to personal growth. The question, “Why don’t they teach that stuff in schools?” lit a spark. Later that night, I realized the same empowerment training I’d been successfully sharing with adults, could be the vital link to reaching children during that crucial period when they are developing the personal identity they will carry through their lives. After two years of development, The I Am 4 Kids Foundation was launched in 2011 to an enthusiastic response.
My mission is to empower kids (and adults) to realize they have tools at their disposal that empower them to progress through life prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. I AM 4 Kids teaches kids how to create their own core belief system rather than having one thrust upon them by their surroundings. Kids become their own guiding light to achieving their goals and dreams rather than cower in fear and uncertainty about their future. In short, they become their own role models.
The tools and concepts I share help not only the children, but also their families as they learn effective communication and supportive techniques. School becomes “the new cool” as kids feel safe and encouraged to share their goals and dreams with other like-minded kids.
Whether you are a kid of 5 or 50, I believe you too can master the valuable success skills such as collaboration, networking and perseverance to achieve your goals. My new book, “10 Secrets to Empower Kids and Awaken the Child in You” available through Amazon, teaches kids and adults alike how to create an empowering identity and attain their goals.
