Forty Under 40: Josué Arias
WHY HE’S A TOP 40
His kindness initiative is creating societal change, inspiring a new generation to prioritize compassion and empathy.
Photograph by Michael Allen
Josué Arias, 38
Chief Kindness Officer, Boys and Girls Club WSGV
"Kindness is not just a virtue, it's a movement," says Josué Arias, the visionary Chief Kindness Officer at the Boys & Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley. With over a decade of experience in youth development and a Masters in Public Administration focused on nonprofit management, Arias is transforming societal norms, one kindness pledge at a time.
"We are on a mission to inspire, educate, and motivate others to embrace kindness," Arias says. "Our goal for 2023 is to get over 46,000 pledges for kindness – half from students, half from individuals. And we're on track to hit that target." This is not just a numbers game for Arias; it's about fostering healthier, more compassionate communities.
"In this turbulent world, kindness can be easily overlooked. My role is to ensure it remains front and center."
Arias' impact extends beyond the academic realm and into the streets of Beverly Hills. His belief that acts of kindness can significantly transform a person's day – and even their life – has sparked a citywide ripple effect. With the world grappling with numerous challenges, Arias' message is timely: "In this turbulent world, kindness can be easily overlooked. My role is to ensure it remains front and center."
His bold vision and commitment to instilling kindness among the next generation has not only placed Arias at the forefront of positive change but also landed him a deserved spot in this year's Forty Under 40.