Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

I am inspired by great entrepreneurs like Daymond John. When I read "The Power of Broke" back in 2016, Daymond inspired me to persevere, innovate, and make things happen no matter what. I founded We Uplift The World that same year. Our mission is to empower artists to become sustainable entrepreneurs. I recently published my first book to help creative entrepreneurs navigate their journey. Those aspiring changemakers are my inspiration. We Uplift The World!

How do you stay motivated?

I'm driven by the vision of a world where artists are empowered to succeed as entrepreneurs. We're building more than just a platform; we're fostering a global movement. The belief that we can fundamentally change the creative economy, coupled with the daily successes of our students, keeps me motivated and relentlessly focused on expanding our impact. The opportunity to uplift artists, who go on to uplift the world motivates me. No more starving artists, this is the age of the Abundant Artist

What would you do with the $25,000?

This $25,000 grant will empower 10,000+ artists to thrive as entrepreneurs. WUTW will: + Create 20 new digital education courses: Providing essential business, finance, and communication skills, fostering more sustainable careers and stronger communities. + Produce a student-made documentary: Sharing inspiring stories of art's power to change lives, amplifying our message globally. + Provide dozens of paid jobs for young black, brown, and indigenous creative entrepreneurs.