Future Leaders: Giovanna Of Indigo Care Management On How Ambitious Young Adults Are Redefining Success
An Interview With Eden Gold
Living in the Present. Ambitious Young Adults Are Redefining Success by choosing to spend time alone for introspection and to recharge. Learning and developing healthy coping strategies have become essential for navigating life’s challenges. At the same time, there is a growing awareness of the need to live in the present — taking full advantage of the opportunities we have now, rather than waiting for a perfect moment in the future. By focusing on the present, young adults can make meaningful progress, fostering both personal growth and the ability to fully appreciate the journey.
In a world rapidly changing through technology, societal norms, and global challenges, a new generation of leaders is emerging. Ambitious young adults are not just aiming for traditional markers of success; they are redefining what it means to be successful. Beyond the corporate ladder and financial milestones, they prioritize impact, sustainability, and personal fulfillment. They are entrepreneurs, activists, scientists, and artists who are shaping the future with innovative ideas and actions. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Giovanna Manson-Hing.
Giovanna Manson-Hing is a seasoned Aging and Dementia Care Specialist with over a decade of experience in elder care. She has worked across a multitude of sectors in the aging industry such as private home health, corporate senior living, nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies. Giovanna’s efforts on the Healthy Brain Initiative with the City of Los Angeles, Department of Aging included making recommendations for policies regarding dementia training for first responders and law enforcement officers.
Her more recent role as Engagement Manager at Hilarity for Charity for youth programs teaches young adults about brain health for Alzheimer’s prevention. With a passion for enhancing the quality of life for both older and younger adults, Giovanna integrates expertise in aging, brain health, caregiving, public health, and fitness to provide holistic, person-centered care. Specializing in dementia care, she helps families navigate symptoms of cognitive decline and end-of-life planning.
Giovanna works for Indigo Care Management as a care manager and dementia consultant and holds certifications from the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP), a bachelor’s in public health, and a master’s in Gerontology from University of Southern California. Known for her charismatic personality and trusted by the Santa Barbara and Los Angeles community, Giovanna remains committed to improving the lives of older adults and their families as an Aging Life Care Professional and leader in the aging industry.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive into our discussion about Future Leaders, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career path?
What brought me to my specific career path is a deep, personal connection to older adults. I’ve always viewed them as a reflection of my future self, which fueled my passion for caregiving. My journey began in high school when I had the opportunity to work with several clients who were showing signs of dementia. At that time, there wasn’t much awareness or education about the condition, and I was compelled to learn more. This sparked my commitment to studying gerontology, with a focus on dementia, not only from a clinical perspective but also from an educational standpoint — empowering communities with the knowledge they need. I believe that understanding dementia’s complexities helps us become more compassionate and fearless in supporting those affected. Through my work, I aim to influence the future by fostering a culture of care, respect, and education for brain health and Alzheimer’s prevention.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
The most interesting and impactful experience I’ve had since starting my career as an aging professional has been working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) for a client in a skilled nursing facility. My role involved caring for the client who was in the late stages of Alzheimer’s disease and non-verbal 8–12 hours a day. My client needed around the clock personal care and I often provided companion care too. During my time with her, she often made loud, agitated sounds. These sounds were constant — almost like yelling — and would disrupt the other residents. During her tumult, I thought to myself: What is she trying to communicate? I realized that her frustration likely stemmed from her inability to express herself due to her dementia. That experience sparked my interest in understanding dementia on a deeper level, and it ultimately led me to pursue a career as a public health gerontologist, specializing in dementia. I find dementia to be one of the most fascinating areas of study because of the complexities it presents in public health.
You are a successful individual. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
1. Cultural Competence
Born in Trinidad & Tobago, a cosmopolitan island in the Caribbean, from a Chinese father and European mother, I quickly learned to appreciate people from all walks of life and to consider their personhood. Having been raised with acceptance of differences taught me humility and respect for the values, attitudes, and beliefs of others. It became second nature for me to consider these elements before assisting individuals with their routines, ensuring that the care I provided was personalized and respectful of each person’s unique background and personality. Additionally, I developed a strong psychological understanding of how culture and upbringing shapes behavior and interactions which helped me to better appreciate and empathize with people’s intrinsic and extrinsic needs.
2. Resilience
Resilience has been key, especially in the field of gerontology, where ageism and challenges like stigma around dementia are common. Embracing Bob Marley’s idea of mental freedom, “Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery. None but ourselves can free our minds,” I’ve learned to be resilient from setbacks and grow from rejection. For example, when I faced opposition for my interest in the study of aging with a specialty in dementia, I persisted because I believed in the importance of changing societal attitudes toward getting older.
3. Humor has been my secret ingredient in navigating the ups and downs of my career in aging, infusing lightness and joy even in the most challenging moments. With dementia patients, humor becomes a powerful tool to connect and create moments of clarity. It can help reduce anxiety, ease confusion, and create a sense of normalcy when dealing with the complexities of the condition. One memorable moment was when a client, despite her memory loss, jokingly told me, ‘I may not remember your name, but I sure know you’re the one who brings me coffee!’ Her playful comment reminded me how humor can offer connection and bring a moment of lightness, even in difficult circumstances.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview about how ambitious young adults are redefining success. How would you define success?
Success, to me, is waking each day with your face to the sun. Moving through each hour with a profound sense of gratitude, intention and purpose. Success is sharing life with others and leading with compassion and love, simultaneously contributing meaningfully to the well-being of both oneself and humanity as a whole.
How do you incorporate social responsibility and sustainability into your definition of success?
I believe social responsibility and sustainability are fundamental aspects of true success. It begins with small, everyday acts of kindness, such as greeting others with a smile. I believe in the power of knowledge and the importance of staying informed, as well as in the need to foster strong, integrated communities where people come together in support of each other. I strive to be a connector, especially among women and older adults in my community. I’m also mindful of the environmental impact of my choices — whether it’s opting for glass over plastic or voting with my dollar to support businesses that prioritize sustainability.
Can you describe a moment or decision that significantly redirected your path toward leadership?
A pivotal moment that redirected my path toward leadership occurred when I finally listened to my inner voice and let it guide me. I had been on my way to take the test into nursing school when I felt a deep, unexpected tug in my heart. It was in that moment of reflection that I recognized my true passion for public health and gerontology — not nursing and medicine. I was more intrigued by primary prevention than secondary or tertiary prevention. So, I leaned into that intuitive pull and embraced the leadership mindset that empowered me to be the change I wanted to see in the world. By aligning my career decisions with this newfound purpose, I found my calling, and it became clear that pursuing gerontology was where I could make the most meaningful impact.
What role do mentorship and community play in shaping your approach to leadership and success?
Mentorship and community play an invaluable role in shaping my approach to leadership and success. I believe in the power of asking questions and connecting with people I admire, whether through formal mentorship or informal informational interviews. Building a strong network of people, each with unique perspectives, and of various ages, has been instrumental in expanding my understanding of the world. I view success as a result of reciprocal relationships — learning from others while also offering support in return. This interconnectedness is at the heart of leadership and success.
In what ways do you think your generation’s view of success differs from previous generations?
I believe my generation views success through a more holistic lens, with a greater emphasis on personal well-being, creativity, and innovation. Our generation has been granted the luxury of access to vast amounts of information that empowers us to make more informed decisions about our lives and our futures like never before. It’s a chance to practice all the things our parents “wished” someone told them when they were in our stage of life.
Additionally, young adults today excel at fostering a sense of global unity and staying connected across borders. With the power of social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and podcasts, we’ve created spaces for sharing ideas, cultures, and experiences, regardless of geographical location. Through these platforms, we find commonalities, celebrate differences, and bridge distances by connecting with people from all walks of life. Whether it’s through dance, storytelling, or shared interests, technology has allowed us to foster a deeper sense of global togetherness and understanding. The mere fact that people from all around the world will be able to read this article is a testament to the power of technology on a global scale.
Based on your experience and research, can you please share “5 Ways Ambitious Young Adults Are Redefining Success?”
1 . Prioritizing Self-Care and Mental Well-being
Ambitious young adults are increasingly recognizing the importance of putting themselves first. This includes adopting self-care practices, setting boundaries, and investing in mental and physical well-being. Many are using knowledge and resources, such as professional therapy, social groups, travel-abroad opportunities, remote work, and brain-healthy lifestyles, to create fulfilling, balanced lives.
2 . Living in the Present
Ambitious Young Adults Are Redefining Success by choosing to spend time alone for introspection and to recharge. Learning and developing healthy coping strategies have become essential for navigating life’s challenges. At the same time, there is a growing awareness of the need to live in the present — taking full advantage of the opportunities we have now, rather than waiting for a perfect moment in the future. By focusing on the present, young adults can make meaningful progress, fostering both personal growth and the ability to fully appreciate the journey.
3 . Monetizing Passions and Side Hustles
Another defining shift for ambitious young adults is the desire to turn their passions into viable income sources. Whether through side hustles or entrepreneurial ventures, young adults are increasingly seeking to align their careers with their passions. For example, after earning my master’s degree, I fully enjoyed fitness and mind-body work so I intentionally pursued my personal trainer (CPT) and yoga instructor certifications, transforming my passion into a side hustle that complements my career in gerontology. A major goal is to be hired by elderly clients seeking personal training in their homes, blending my love for physical wellness with my commitment to helping others lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
4 . Sharing Knowledge and Promoting Awareness
Young adults are actively breaking down barriers of information hoarding. Rather than being gatekeepers, they are passionate about sharing knowledge, raising awareness, and promoting access to resources. Whether through programs like the HOSA or the Youth Movement Against Alzheimer’s (YMAA) or other clubs on school campuses, they are striving to make information accessible to everyone, fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual learning for a more sustainable future.
5 . Emphasizing Holistic Success
Success is no longer defined solely by professional achievements or material wealth. Ambitious young adults are increasingly focusing on quality of life, personal growth, and community. They are leading by example, demonstrating that true success is about finding fulfillment, creating lasting relationships, and prioritizing health and well-being — ultimately shaping a future that reflects their core values and aspirations.
How do you navigate the challenges of innovation and change while staying true to your values and vision for success?
Navigating the challenges of innovation and change while staying true to my values and vision for success requires a balance of openness and self-awareness. I stay grounded in my core values, such as integrity and authenticity, while remaining open to other perspectives and embracing change as an essential part of growth. Adapting and being flexible are key in responding to new opportunities and challenges, but I always check in with myself to ensure that any change aligns with my long-term vision. I protect my peace and privacy by setting healthy boundaries, making sure that I am not overwhelmed by external pressures. I also make it a point to be mindful of my consumption — whether it’s information, experiences, or relationships — because I know that what I take in influences my mindset and the way I move forward. This combination of flexibility, self-reflection, and authenticity helps me navigate the evolving landscape without losing sight of what truly matters to me.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I could start a movement to bring the most good to the most people, it would involve requiring every high school student to spend time assisting older adults in their community. Simple tasks like taking out the trash or running errands would help foster connections between generations. This experience would leave a lasting impact on young adults, influencing the way they approach life and relationships moving forward.
Additionally, if every community had a space where older and younger adults could regularly interact and learn from one another — such as a shared center on a school campus or through designated events — it would create meaningful intergenerational engagement. This sense of connection would benefit everyone, promoting mutual understanding, respect, and support across generations.
How can our readers further follow you online?
- LinkedIn — Giovanna Manson-Hing
- Instagram — @giathegerontologist
- Website — www.indigocaremanagement.com
Thank you for the time you spent sharing these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
Future Leaders: Giovanna Of Indigo Care Management On How Ambitious Young Adults Are Redefining… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.