It is with pride and joy I present to you the 31st member of Team Do Good, the mighty Kristin Tomasello. I am absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to celebrate Kristin here via Tampa Bless and Team Do Good. Her willingness to participate in this feature is highly appreciated. And now, without further ado...
Name: Kristin Tomasello
Place of birth: Tampa
Currently reside: Tampa
Heritage: Italian Cuban
Family: Not married
Alma Mater: Steinbrenner High School, Galen College, and St. Pete College
Occupation: Professional Model, current Miss South Tampa, Author, and Founder of Kristin Tomasello Foundation
Activities you organized or participated in related to helping others and uplifting humanity?
I've been fortunate to be guided by a vision that has led me on a journey of giving back and making a difference in the lives of others. One significant project that has been close to my heart is Project Selasa in Jakarta, Indonesia. I spent over a month there, collaborating with a dedicated team to contribute to the growth of Project Selasa, particularly in building a school for them. Witnessing the transformation and opportunities this project has brought to the community has been incredibly rewarding. You can follow Project Selasa here: https://www.instagram.com/project_selasa/?hl=en
In addition to my involvement with Project Selasa, I initiated a special needs scholarship program to support individuals who deserve access to quality education and support. Ensuring that everyone, regardless of their unique abilities, has an opportunity to thrive is a mission I hold dear.
Recently, I embarked on a new endeavor, A Night To Remember, a Hollywood-themed dance event specifically designed for the special needs community. This event not only celebrates their unique talents and spirit but also serves as a platform to raise funds for the establishment of a special needs school in Tampa. My hope is that this event will not only create cherished memories but also inspire others to join in the cause of providing quality education and support for individuals with special needs. While it's essential to acknowledge these efforts, I believe that the real heroes are the individuals and communities we aim to serve. It's a collective endeavor, and I'm grateful to be a part of it.
The Tampa Bless 12
1) Favorite pastime or hobby? Why? Please explain.
Hiking through the outdoors because it gives me a chance to appreciate God’s kingdom.
2) Favorite sport, team, or player? If not into sports, your favorite musician or album? Or answer one of each if you’d like or any combo. Please explain why for any one or more of the questions you answered.
Lady Gaga is indeed a remarkable artist known not only for her incredible musical talent but also for her commitment to philanthropy and social causes. Her dedication to giving back to people and advocating for various important issues has endeared her to many fans. Seeing how she uses her platform and influence to impact society positively is inspiring.
3) Favorite movie? Why? Please explain.
The Choice. It made me think about how all my life choices affect the next choice. That is why before I make a choice I pray to God and ask Him to make my choices for me.
4) Favorite place (country, city, town, etc…) you have visited and why?
New York City. In the bustling heart of New York City, amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, I've experienced a profound sense of God's presence. It's as if the city itself serves as a divine tapestry, woven with moments of connection and reflection.
In the quiet serenity of Central Park, I've felt God's hand in the whisper of leaves and the laughter of children at play. Amidst the diverse tapestry of cultures, I've seen the beauty of humanity in all its forms, a testament to the divine artistry of creation.
5) Last meal? You could have anything, what is it? Why? Please explain.
Sushi. Savoring the delicate slices of fresh sashimi, the perfectly seasoned rice, and the subtle interplay of ingredients.
6) Three activities or routines you would highly recommend? Please explain your reasoning for each.
1. Swimming - Swimming is a fantastic activity that offers both physical and mental benefits. It's a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular fitness, strength, and flexibility while being gentle on the joints.
2. Traveling - Traveling is a transformative experience that broadens horizons, fosters personal growth, and cultivates empathy. It exposes you to new cultures, perspectives, and ways of life, encouraging you to step out of your comfort zone.
3. Exploring and Learning About Different Cultures - Engaging in cultural exploration and learning is fulfilling and enriching. It promotes awareness, appreciation for other cultures, and the dismantling of stereotypes. By immersing yourself in various cultures through books, documentaries, attending cultural events, or visiting different communities, you gain insights into the values, traditions, and belief systems that shape our world.
7) A) Personality trait you highly value? Why? Please explain. B) The personality trait you highly dislike? Why? Please explain.
A. Empathy is a personality trait that I highly value because it is the cornerstone of meaningful human connections and compassionate interactions. Empathetic individuals have the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, to walk in their shoes, and to offer support without judgment. This trait fosters kindness and a sense of community.
B. Narcissism is a personality trait that I highly dislike because it often involves an excessive focus on oneself, an inflated sense of self-importance, and a lack of consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Narcissistic behavior can lead to a range of negative consequences, both for the individual displaying narcissism and for those around them.
8) Favorite thinker (author, philosopher, theologian, etc…)? Why? Please explain. And what is your favorite piece of advice, quote, or text from them or in general? Why? Please explain.
Michelle McLean was crowned Miss Namibia in 1991, and she went on to represent Namibia at the Miss Universe pageant that same year. She achieved significant success at the Miss Universe pageant by winning the title, becoming the first and still only Namibian to win the Miss Universe crown. Following her reign as Miss Universe, Michelle McLean has been involved in various humanitarian and philanthropic efforts. She has focused on initiatives related to education, healthcare, and the well-being of children in Namibia and other parts of Africa. Her commitment to social causes has made her a respected advocate for positive change.
"Just believe." - Michelle McLean
9) Biggest influence in your life or a top one, and what was it about them that really stood out?
My MOM 🙂
1. Unconditional Love - My mom provides unconditional love and support. She is there through the ups and downs, offering comfort and encouragement without judgment.
2. Nurturing Nature - My mom played a central role in nurturing and caring for her children from a young age. Her guidance helps shape her children's values, ethics, and sense of responsibility.
3. Sacrifice - My mom makes significant sacrifices to ensure her children have the best possible opportunities in life. Her willingness to put her children's needs before her own is deeply admired.
4. Strength and Resilience - My mom often exhibits remarkable strength and resilience in the face of adversity. She leads by example, showing her children how to overcome challenges with grace and determination.
5. Teaching Life Lessons - My mom imparts valuable life lessons, from basic skills like cooking and cleaning to profound wisdom about love, kindness, and empathy.
10) If there is one thing you could change in the world, what would it be?
Promoting equal education for all is a pivotal endeavor that has the potential to address global challenges comprehensively. By ensuring everyone has equal access to quality education, we can reduce socioeconomic disparities, stimulate economic growth, empower individuals, enhance social cohesion, and address pressing global issues such as poverty, gender inequality, environmental sustainability, and peace. Equal education fosters a sense of responsibility, encouraging individuals to contribute to a more just and prosperous world.
11) Where did your desire to help others and uplift humanity come from? Please explain.
Experiencing a chronic illness like lupus and witnessing a loved one's struggle with cancer can be profoundly impactful. These experiences often have led me to develop a deep sense of empathy and a heightened awareness of the physical and emotional toll that illness can take on individuals and their families. The empathy born from these experiences can drive a strong desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others who are facing similar challenges.
12) What are you working on now and how can people get involved?
My dedication to philanthropic initiatives and the fervent desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others have been profoundly guided by the divine presence of God. It is through God's grace and wisdom that I find the strength and inspiration to embark on various meaningful projects, from the creation of my book, God Enlightened Me, to the orchestration of A Night To Remember, alongside my heartfelt commitment to assisting special needs individuals in Tampa.
Follow Kristin Tomasello on Instagram and visit her website to get more information. Both are linked here:
A Night To Remember
When: October 14, 2023, 6 pm Dinner will be served, 7 pm The Lost Identity (sizzle reel), 7:30 pm Red Carpet (meet Abrraham Rockferry and Pusha Preme), and 8 pm to 10 pm Dance Party.
Where: Oliver Estates Specially Fit Barn, 2112 Martin Rd, Dover, Fl 33527
Sponsored by Outback Steakhouse, Chase Bank, Bolay, Florish, PDQ, Polynesian Vibes, and 3FigsMedia.
This event is free. If you are interested in attending, please use A Night To Remember RSVP link: form.jotform.com
Thank you so much for your time Kristin and for all that you do. The place we live in is that much better because of you. I hope that this feature has served to inspire you, as well as successfully celebrate those who help others and uplift humanity.
If you like, please subscribe below to the Tampa Bless blog and be on the lookout for the next featured member of Team Do Good as well as check out the Tampa Bless store for the latest offerings. Let's go! May God bless y'all and thank you for your support. Much love and appreciation.