Meet Karey Rowe, the new Chair of the Business program starting during the 2024-2025 school year. He’s been interested in business throughout his life, and even started his very own groundbreaking business in Jamaica – the first children’s salon and clothing store there, called Kidzblock.
This is what he wants the University of Guelph-Humber community to know.
Q: Welcome to the University of Guelph-Humber! As the new Chair of the Business program joining during the 2024-2025 academic year, what drew you to this role?
A: I am excited to join the University of Guelph-Humber as the Chair of the Business program. This role allows me to create programs that meet students’ needs and global business demands. The University's commitment to practical, hands-on learning aligns with my belief in blending academic knowledge with real-world applications. I am inspired by the opportunity to work with faculty and industry leaders to provide forward-thinking education. I look forward to building a program that equips students with technical, leadership, and problem-solving skills for success.
Q: What inspired you to pursue studying business and a subsequent career in business?
A: From an early age, I was interested in how organizations function and influence the economy and society. I saw businesses create jobs and drive innovation. This inspired my career in business with the aim of social and financial impact. I wanted to help organizations reach their potential and become forces for good. In my studies, I learned that business is about people, relationships, and community value, not just profits. The aim is to combine leadership and passion for education and development. My journey focuses on learning, growing, and helping others through mentoring and strategic leadership.
Q: For eight years, you owned and operated the first children’s salon and clothing store in Jamaica called Kidzblock! What was the highlight of this experience for you?
Owning and operating Kidzblock was very rewarding. As Jamaica's first business of its kind, it provided essential services to families. Creating a unique space that positively impacted lives and built strong customer relationships was deeply satisfying. Kidzblock taught me key lessons in customer service, branding, and small business management, highlighting the importance of community connections. A defining moment was when it became a community hub for celebrations and memories. This shaped my view of business as a tool for personal and community growth. In addition, it reinforced my commitment to nurturing thriving environments.
Q: When you are not at work, what hobbies do you enjoy?
A: I believe in a healthy work-life balance and find hobbies essential for staying focused. I enjoy reading books on leadership, personal development, and business, as they broaden my perspective and inspire ideas for my professional life. I value time with family and friends through outings or meals, and unwind through outdoor activities such as hiking. Travel enriches me with cultural experiences and insight into global business. I am also committed to community service, regularly volunteering to support education and youth development, which aligns with my values.
Q: If you could have dinner with any three historical figures in the world, who would they be and why?
A: If I could dine with three historical figures, I would choose Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, and Winston Churchill. Nelson Mandela exemplifies resilience and forgiveness, using his suffering to promote peace in South Africa. I am eager to learn about his leadership and how he overcame challenges. Mahatma Gandhi’s nonviolence philosophy and dedication to social justice shaped a nation and inspired global movements. His thoughts on leadership and collective action would be invaluable. Winston Churchill’s World War II leadership showed the importance of courage and decisive action in crisis. I would like to hear his views on facing adversity and leadership responsibilities. These figures had a significant impact on the world and a dinner with them would offer rich insight into leadership, resilience, and change.
Q: Is there anything else you want the Guelph-Humber community to know about you?
A: I am committed to creating an inclusive and innovative academic environment at Guelph-Humber, where all students can thrive. My leadership focuses on collaboration, mentorship, and ongoing improvement. I believe that a supportive community is essential for success in academics and personal growth. I aim to bridge the gap between education and the professional world by evolving the Business program to equip students with the necessary skills and opportunities. I hope to collaborate to build a program that reflects our values of excellence, inclusivity, and community.