A Deeper Look Into The Mind Of The Creator Of ‘Date While You Wait’

The 28-year-old East Flatbush native, Thomas Knox, who is also the mastermind behind the train platform sensation “Date While You Wait”, sat down with us on a Tuesday afternoon to give us some insight on his dope venture. We spoke about everything ranging from who he is as a person, goals, hobbies, and some common misconceptions that people have about “Date While You Wait”.

Thomas is a modern day renaissance man, who isn’t intimidated by work and actually enjoys it. The most common question he is asked is if the reason he started “Date While You Wait” is because he’s looking for love. The answer is “No”, he is just committed to making people’s commute a little less hectic and more positive. You might’ve seen Thomas in a train station, he comes equipped with a table, two chairs, a board game, and a coke bottle that holds a flower in it. But don’t think to ever see a rose on the table, as naturally people associate a rose with a romantic gesture. This is not a gimmick, there is no change jar, this is really just a genuine approach to engage strangers with conversation over a board game.

OBKS: What is something that you want people to know about you?

Thomas Knox: I am a “yes or no” type of person who is not afraid of rejection. I don’t do things to make people happy, I am not focused on what people think about me. And I think that helps with the success of “Date While You Wait” because I put myself in places and situations to succeed. I am also very protective of my close family and friends.

What exactly is “Date While You Wait?”

It’s a way for people to communicate with one another. It’s important because I’m connecting with people. My intention is simply for people to have a positive social interaction. My ensemble consists of a button up and a bow tie. I believe that the way I present myself is uplifting and we need to focus on uplifting one another.

How did you come up with the name “Date While You Wait?”

Essentially, I came up with something that would draw people in. It was originally called “Have A Date While You Wait”, but when my friend was creating the poster for me, she said that it was too long, so we stuck with “Date While You Wait”. The concept behind it was to have a “date” with someone while you are waiting for your transportation. I wanted to take away the romantic part of it, and focus more on the conversation. We don’t do well with open dialogue as people. “Date While You Wait” was basically created because of lack of communication.

What was the first train station you appeared in for “Date While You Wait?”

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It was 14th Street, Union Square on June 13, 2015.

Where do you see “Date While You Wait” going?

I love to meet and connect with people so I am working on a way to bring this to other cities, and not just in a train station, want to take it to the bus stations, church, community centers, etc. So expect a tour soon.

Are there any rules for “Date While You Wait?”

Yes, you have to state your name, and depending on how busy it is, or the traffic, I set expectations, it ranges from either one game, or best of 3.

Three words to describe yourself.

King. Humbled. Innovative.

When you’re not working at Apple, or doing “Date While You Wait,” what is Thomas doing?

I am currently working on a non profit focused on young men of color called “Our Movement To Greatness” (O.M.T.G), a platform to create opportunities, and help raise the youth and connect them with mentors so that they are successful. The name was inspired by the greatness in everything. Greatness is something everyone should strive for. Every month I focus on a different black leader, and learn something new about them. I want to focus on being more in tune with other people and spark engaging conversation. I’m excited for next month, as I’ll be focusing on Nina Symone.

What are you listening to right now?

If I can be completely honest, I’m not listening to music right now. I ‘m listening to a podcast called “Black Men Can’t Jump In Hollywood,” by three comedians.

If you are interested in going to the next meet up spot, make sure that you are following on Twitter and Instagram, as that is where they make most of their announcements. Oh, and he is also looking to get a female’s perspective for “Date While You Wait”, so if you or someone you know might be interested in setting up your own “Date While You Wait” table to interact with other people, don’t hesitate to reach out here.