How She Got There: Kou Moore, Director of Peppersoup Media

Name:  Kou Moore
Age: 32
Job Title and Description: Director of Peppersoup Media                      
College/Major: Morgan State University/Biology (Undergraduate School); George Washington University/Public Health (Graduate School)
Website: www.peppersoupmedia.com 
 

What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?
Kou Moore: My current job is to direct and lead Peppersoup Media, a branding, marketing, communications and events firm for non-profit and socially responsible for-profit organizations. That means I work on projects, direct the staff, do research, participate in meetings and so on. When I get started everyday, the only guarantee is that I will be writing and interacting.

What is the best part of your job?
KM: The best part of my job is the variety – never the same day twice!

You used to study science! What are some obstacles you had to overcome while switching career paths?
KM: Interestingly enough, the obstacles were mostly self-created. I worried about my lack of credentials. Once I stopped worrying and realized that taking a creative approach was often best, I was fine. Also, knowing that I have a scientific background has helped with partners—it makes me appear knowledgeable and well-rounded.

What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?
KM: I wish I’d known how interconnected and fast-paced it is.

Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?
KM: Just one? I would have to say Korto Momolu, who was a great mentor and boss.

What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?
KM: I like Josephine Baker and her quote, “Better a tigress than a frightened deer.” Ann Richards is another favorite and my life motto is her quote, “The answer to life is yes.” As far as business is concerned, Carley Roney said it best: “You have to be willing to put in the work, make cold calls, get shot down repeatedly and be willing to get up and do it all (over and over) again until something starts to stick.”

You’ve had quite the life so far – you were born in Liberia and survived a civil war. Do you think these aspects of your life have influenced what you do now? If so, how?
KM: Absolutely! Having such a background makes me determined, adaptable and grateful. 

What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it? Just one?
KM: I make mistakes all the time! My top three lessons (so far) have been to be strategic, be instinctive and be resilient.

How do you want to expand Peppersoup Media in the years to come?
KM: It’s pretty simple: I want Peppersoup Media to do outstanding work with dynamic partners.

What do you look for when you’re considering hiring someone?
KM: I look for someone with curiosity, effort and good judgment.

What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?
KM: I’d say it’s better to have a plan and a goal than a dream. Success resides in effort, not who you are or what you’re born with.

• how she got there