As the NBA Summer League continues to grow, so do the people we work with. Over the years the VSL has cultivated a very special group of individuals we like to call our “family” and it only gets bigger each year.
We are very proud to shine some light on those who we’ve had the pleasure of working with, and this week we have a feature on Summer League alumni Heavyn Jackson.
Heavyn just finished off her second year as an NBA Summer League intern along with assisting us at HallPass in other events such as NBA All-Star Weekend and adidas Grassroots Basketball. Let’s catch up to see how Heavyn is doing after our Summer events!
Q: What are you up to these days?
Reflecting on the awesome experience of event planning, coordinating and team building with HallPass Media. My latest mission has been to review resources and identify opportunities to further develop in the areas above. Currently, I also work as a behavior therapist for children diagnosed with mental disorders, assisting them and their families with the challenges that may bring.
Q: Tell us about your experience interning for the NBA Summer League and working with HallPass on other events.
My experience interning for the NBA Summer League and working with HallPass was extremely exciting and productive. I worked with a great group of interns, assisted with VIP ticketing and ancillary events. With HallPass Media I was afforded the opportunity to work with adidas in coordinating hotel arrangements, transportation and a finale cruise for 120+ people. This experience not only helped prepare me professionally, but also aided in the personal satisfaction of interacting with up and coming youth. Lastly, it was both a pleasure and an honor to glean from Mr. Albert Hall and his partner Mr. Warren LeGarie. Their wisdom and insight are priceless.
Q: Were there any highlights?
Last year I was the recipient of the Miss Congeniality Award as an NBA Summer League Intern. In addition, this year my drive and focus during summer league allotted me the opportunity to work both adidas Gauntlet and the adidas All American camp. All of those experiences are moments I will always be grateful for.
Q: Can you explain your job title and what you do?
I currently work as a behavior therapist. I’ve worked with over 7 pediatric clients diagnosed with mental disorders, learning disorders, and developmental disabilities trying to overcome roadblocks. With this, I also help coach parents through the process. I work with the children and their families by implementing applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy. My job is extremely rewarding and takes an immense amount of patience.
Q: Is there anything that you learned from Summer League that you apply to your current job?
Summer league taught me the importance of flexibility, improvisation, and dedication. These three skills can be applied anywhere, including my current position. Being a behavior therapist often takes a lot of flexibility because sometimes the children I work with can be unpredictable due to their mental challenges. I have to know how to remain calm & flexible and think of ways to improvise on the spot. It also takes dedication to stay by their sides regardless of the issues they face.
Q: Is the sports industry something you’ll want to pursue?
I can definitely see myself pursuing a career in the sports industry. For majority of my life, I’ve always been around sports and though I’m not a serious athlete, I’ve learned so much being around the atmosphere.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In the next 5 years, I hope to continue forging relationships in the area of events and project development. My mission is to continue partnering with groups like HallPass Media and the likes to provide fan-friendly experiences. By 2023, I hope to be working in the communications field in the sports industry, continuing to work with the same dedication that I started with as a Summer League Intern. I will make sure to never forget my humble beginnings as a professional and always strive to make the most of every opportunity.
Q: Any advice you would give to someone who are trying to pursue their career?
The most important thing I’ve learned in my young professional career is to make as many connections through networking as you can. It’s imperative to make the most out of every opportunity that you are given because you never know who is watching. It’s also very important to keep your resume updated and have a cover letter prepared. Use your resources around you and never take anything for granted.
Rapid Fire Questions:
Q: Favorite hobby outside of work?
I enjoy travelling and being able to see different parts of the world.
Q: Role models / People you admire?
Jesus, First Lady Michelle Obama, Princess Diana
Q: Any hidden talents?
Cartoon voices, singing, Youtuber
Q: Favorite sports movie?
Love & Basketball
Q: Favorite Quote?
“Do not judge me on my successes. Judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again” – Nelson Mandela
Q: Interesting place you’ve gotten to travel for work?
In high school, I had the privilege of going to Fiji for mission work. It was an experience I will cherish for a lifetime.
Q: Most memorable or favorite sporting event you’ve been to, whether through work or for fun?
In 2016 I had the honor and privilege of witnessing Game 7 of the NBA finals. I witnessed the greatest player of this generation was able to fulfill a promise to his hometown and bring a championship to Cleveland.
Thank you for your time Heavyn! On behalf of the entire HallPass and VSL team, we thank you for all of your hard work and wish you nothing but the best moving forward.
