Today we’d like to introduce you to SunJa Leon.
Hi SunJa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The journey of starting and running my family’s non-profit organization in Haiti has definitely not been a smooth one. There have been a number of significant challenges and obstacles I’ve had to navigate along the way. One of the biggest struggles has been the inherent difficulties of working in a developing, third-world country when it comes to fundraising and resource allocation. Despite my initial hopes, I found that I did not have as much help or support as I had anticipated. Securing the necessary funds to execute our programs and initiatives in Haiti has been an ongoing battle.
However, I’ve also expanded our efforts beyond just Haiti. In the US, we’ve started organizing toy drives, backpack drives, and other initiatives to support children in need everywhere, not just in my family’s home country. This has allowed us to have a broader impact and reach more communities.
Another major hurdle was the process of applying for and maintaining our 501(c)3 non-profit status. I ended up losing our tax-exempt status at one point, which was a huge setback, and I had to go through the lengthy process of getting reinstated. This administrative red tape and bureaucracy added tremendous stress and uncertainty.
In response to these challenges, I eventually decided to expand our efforts by opening a consulting company called the Nokkha Group. This allows us to not only support our own non-profit work in Haiti and the US, but to also provide guidance and assistance to other organizations, whether they are just starting out or are already established. The goal is to help non-profits of all kinds succeed and maximize their impact, drawing on the hard-earned lessons from my own experience.
While the road has been far from smooth, these struggles have only strengthened my resolve and commitment to making a real difference. I remain passionate about continuing my family’s legacy of giving back and uplifting the communities that mean so much to me, both in Haiti and beyond. The victories, no matter how small, make it all worthwhile.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey has not been a smooth road. There have been a number of significant struggles along the way. One of the biggest challenges has been the difficulty of fundraising and operating in a developing country like Haiti. Despite my family’s deep connections there, I quickly realized that I didn’t have as much help and support as I had initially hoped. Securing funding to sustain our initiatives has been an ongoing battle, as resources are limited and the needs are so great.
Additionally, navigating the bureaucratic process of applying for and maintaining our non-profit’s 501(c)3 status has been incredibly frustrating. At one point, we even lost our tax-exempt status, which set us back significantly and required a lengthy process to get reinstated. The administrative hurdles have been draining and have taken time away from our core mission.
Logistical challenges of operating in a third-world country have also been a constant source of difficulty. From infrastructure challenges to cultural differences, there have been many unexpected obstacles that have required creative problem-solving and persistence to overcome.
Despite these struggles, I remain deeply committed to the cause. The ability to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need in continues to motivate me. But it has certainly been a hard-won journey, filled with ups and downs, successes and setbacks. I’ve learned invaluable lessons about resilience, patience, and the power of determination in the face of adversity.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Nokkha Consulting Group is a specialized firm that helps nonprofit organizations amplify their impact and achieve their mission-driven objectives. As a company, we have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the nonprofit sector and we are dedicated to providing tailored solutions to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of our clients. Our core areas of expertise include nonprofit management and development. We offer a comprehensive suite of services to support organizations at every stage of their growth, from strategic planning and fundraising strategy development to grant writing, board development, program evaluation, and capacity building. By drawing on our extensive experience and industry knowledge, we empower our nonprofit partners to optimize their operations, cultivate strategic relationships, and ultimately make a greater positive impact in their communities.
What truly sets Nokkha Consulting Group apart is our commitment to a personalized, collaborative approach. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all model – instead, we work closely with each client to understand their specific needs, goals, and pain points. Our aim is to meet organizations where they are and develop customized solutions that align with their individual vision and priorities.
We take great pride in the long-term partnerships we’ve built with our nonprofit clients. Our clients know that we treat them as our top priority, providing attentive support and creative problem-solving to help them thrive. This personalized service and dedication to our clients’ success is a core part of our brand and what we want our readers to know about Nokkha Consulting Group.
Ultimately, we are driven by a shared passion for driving positive social change. By empowering nonprofits to enhance their impact, we believe we can help build a better, more equitable world. That sense of purpose is at the heart of everything we do, and it’s what we’re most proud of as an organization.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
First and foremost, my grandmother deserves immense credit for laying the foundation and instilling in me the value of giving back. Her example of generosity and compassion towards those in need in Haiti was foundational in shaping my own drive to make a difference. My mother has been an unwavering cheerleader, providing steady encouragement and belief in my mission. Her unconditional support has undoubtedly bolstered my confidence and resolve to keep pushing forward, even in the face of challenges.
Just as important have been my husband and children, have been by my side every step of the way. Their partnership, understanding, and willingness to be a part of this journey has been invaluable. My family has been a true team, united in your shared vision.
Beyond my immediate family, I also had a strong network of friends and other supporters who believed in me and my goal of “saving the world.” These advocates have likely provided moral support, connections, and perhaps even practical assistance that has been integral to the growth and impact of my organization.
I have been blessed with an incredible support system – people who have championed my cause, lifted me up, and refused to let me give up, even in the face of adversity. Their contributions, in both tangible and intangible ways, have undoubtedly been a major factor in my success. I recognize them as essential partners in the work you’re doing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @nokkhagroup
- Facebook: Nokkha Group
Image Credits
SunJa Leon
