Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

I am a husband and father of 2, I work as a full-time forklift driver for Costco. I can remember the exact date (02/14/2018), on my birthday, watching the tragic events of the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting unfold, watching my then 14 year old daughter, horrifically watching and uttering the words that would change my life and others forever “How will I ever feel safe in school again”. What do you do as a “Dad”, protector of the family, god gave me a vision!

How do you stay motivated?

My motivation to complete the prototype and the extensive patent on my own, came from an Island born work ethic, where I was taught, if you want things done, put your heart, mind and soul into everything and never quit once you start something. I was also motivated in making sure my daughter had personal protection , in the event of a school shooting/lockdown. Once I made the final improvements on the prototype, my daughter asked, “What about my friends” this was the birth of DefendA

What would you do with the $25,000?

I have sold thousands of my vests and backpacks, all over the US, via internet and tradeshows, as a small operation and giving the lowest priced bulletproof armor in the country because of my need to provide protection to the whole family, I’ll take a lower profit because the thanks and appreciation my customers give me, knowing they have added protection, , If I was fortunate to be selected, the money would go to production and a 2nd give away, to the inner city youth & less fortunate