(BBR) Maryland - In a significant display of federal support and solidarity, President Joe Biden has assured Governor Wes More, Mayor Brandon Scott, and local leadership that the federal government will cover the total cost to rebuild the Scott Key Bridge, which was destroyed in a recent collision with a ship. President Biden's commitment underscores the importance of swift and decisive action in times of crisis and highlights the federal government's dedication to assisting states and cities in their recovery efforts.

Following the devastating collision that severed a critical transportation link for residents and businesses in Maryland, President Biden reached out to Governor More and Mayor Scott to offer his condolences and pledge federal assistance. Recognizing the urgency of the situation and the vital role the Scott Key Bridge plays in the region's infrastructure, President Biden made it clear that the federal government would spare no expense in facilitating the bridge's reconstruction.

With the federal government covering the total cost of rebuilding the Scott Key Bridge, Governor More and Mayor Scott can focus their efforts on coordinating the recovery and reconstruction process without having to bear the financial burden. This assurance provides much-needed relief to the state and city leadership and instills confidence in the community that their needs will be met as they work to restore normalcy and connectivity.

President Biden's commitment to fully fund the bridge's reconstruction reflects his administration's broader commitment to investing in infrastructure and ensuring the resilience and safety of critical transportation networks across the country. By prioritizing infrastructure projects like the Scott Key Bridge, President Biden aims to strengthen communities, create jobs, and promote economic growth and prosperity nationwide.

As Maryland and Baltimore embark on the journey to rebuild the Scott Key Bridge, they do so with the unwavering support of the federal government behind them. President Biden's pledge of federal assistance serves as a testament to the power of partnership and cooperation between different levels of government in times of need, reaffirming the nation's collective commitment to standing strong and resilient in the face of adversity.

(BBR) Maryland - In a career spanning over four decades, Eddie Murphy has firmly established himself as a titan of the entertainment industry, leaving an indelible mark on stand-up comedy, film, and music. From his meteoric rise in the early 1980s to his status as a venerable icon in the 2020s, Murphy’s journey is a testament to his versatile talent, impeccable timing, and the profound impact he has had on audiences and fellow artists alike.

 Rising Star on “Saturday Night Live”

Murphy burst onto the national scene in 1980 as a cast member on “Saturday Night Live” (SNL), where his charismatic presence and unique comedic voice quickly made him a standout. With iconic characters like Gumby, Mr. Robinson, and Buckwheat, Murphy’s performances were not just hilarious—they were groundbreaking, pushing boundaries and bringing a fresh, dynamic energy to the show that helped revitalize it during a critical period.

Box Office Gold

Transitioning from television to film, Murphy became one of the most bankable stars of the 1980s and 1990s. His role in “48 Hrs.” (1982) set the template for the buddy cop genre, blending action and comedy in a way that had never been seen before. This success was followed by a string of hits including “Trading Places” (1983), the “Beverly Hills Cop” series, and “Coming to America” (1988), which showcased his ability to play multiple characters in the same film—a feat he replicated in later films like “The Nutty Professor” (1996) and “Norbit” (2007).

 A Versatile Talent

Murphy’s talents extend beyond comedy and acting. He received critical acclaim for his dramatic role in “Dreamgirls” (2006), earning a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination. His ventures into music, particularly the hit single “Party All the Time” (1985), further demonstrated his wide-ranging abilities.

 Legacy and Impact

Eddie Murphy’s impact on the entertainment industry is profound. He paved the way for future generations of comedians and actors, breaking racial barriers and creating a more inclusive space in Hollywood. His influence can be seen in the work of countless comedians who cite him as an inspiration.

 Continuing to Entertain

Even into the 2020s, Murphy continues to entertain and engage new audiences. His return to “Saturday Night Live” as a host in 2019 was met with critical acclaim and nostalgia, reminding viewers of his enduring talent and charisma. With projects like “Coming 2 America” (2021), he has proven that his comedic genius and appeal are timeless.

Eddie Murphy’s career is a remarkable journey of resilience, evolution, and unending creativity. From his early days on SNL to his status as a Hollywood legend, Murphy remains a pivotal figure whose contributions have enriched the tapestry of American entertainment. His legacy is not just in the laughter he has brought to millions but in the doors he has opened for those who follow in his footsteps.

(Maryland - BBR) Venture for T.H.E.M. (Tech High-Performers & Entrepreneurial Minorities) is an innovative startup accelerator and social enterprise dedicated to supporting early-stage entrepreneurs from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Our comprehensive approach includes providing essential resources such as funding, mentorship, and industry-led workshops.

Recently, we proudly hosted the HBC Universe Summit at Morgan State University in partnership with: Think PGC, Morgan State, and The White House Initiative on HBCUs". The summit attracted over 450 registered attendees, both in-person and virtually, and featured more than 20 distinguished speakers. With the support of over 30 sponsors and partners, as well as engagement from 10 government hiring agencies, we provided over $6,000 in funding to student and alumni entrepreneurs.

We are honored to have received congratulatory citations from Vice President Kamala Harris of HBCU Grad and Maryland Governor Wes Moore, further affirming our commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the HBCU community.

Contact information.

Washington, D.C. - March 19, 2024 - Jeffrey Stanford Scruggs, a trailblazing figure in the realm of technology and community empowerment, continues to leave an indelible mark on society with his multifaceted contributions. From pioneering advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to fostering community engagement and empowerment, Scruggs stands as a beacon of inspiration for individuals across the globe.

A graduate of Morgan State University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Traffic and Highway Engineering in 2017, Scruggs is currently on the cusp of achieving another milestone as he nears completion of his Master's degree from The University of Advancing Technology, anticipated in May 2024.

With a distinguished career spanning various government agencies including the Army, Navy, and the Pentagon, Scruggs has been instrumental in implementing cutting-edge AI technologies, driving innovation and efficiency in critical sectors.

In addition to his impactful work in the government sector, Scruggs has dedicated himself to grassroots community organizing, particularly in the Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area. Collaborating with local leaders, he spearheads initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized communities and fostering inclusive growth.

As the Chief Technology Officer for Venture for T.H.E.M, Scruggs is at the forefront of developing the groundbreaking Fund. Fwd application, poised to revolutionize the landscape of financial empowerment. Set for release later this year, Fund. Fwd promises to democratize access to capital and propel aspiring entrepreneurs towards success.

Scruggs's commitment to inclusivity and education is further underscored by his recent engagements. He conducted a workshop on AI for Baddies In Tech, Women's Rights Buildathon, empowering women in technology and advocating for gender equality in the tech industry.

Continuing his mission to democratize knowledge, Scruggs is scheduled to lead a workshop on artificial intelligence at Diversitech 2024 in Philadelphia. This prestigious event serves as a platform for diverse voices in technology to exchange ideas and foster innovation.

Furthermore, Scruggs's expertise and leadership have been recognized by Howard University, where he has been invited to serve as a judge for the esteemed business pitch competition, HU EMPOWER. This annual event, now in its fifth year, showcases the entrepreneurial spirit of Howard University students, offering a platform for budding innovators to pitch their business ideas and compete for startup funding.

As Scruggs continues to push the boundaries of innovation and empowerment, his influence resonates far and wide, inspiring individuals to pursue excellence and effect positive change in their communities.

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:

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People on the Move is a leading platform dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of exceptional individuals making an impact across various industries and communities.

Alexis Coates Business Consulting Launches New Website, Offering Enhanced Services and Resources

[Baltimore, MD] – Alexis Coates Business Consulting is thrilled to announce the launch of its new website, www.alexiscoates.com, designed to provide clients with a more user-friendly and informative experience.

Alexis Coates Business Consulting, led by industry expert Alexis Coates, has been a trusted partner for businesses seeking strategic guidance and effective solutions. With the unveiling of the new website, the company aims to further streamline the client experience and showcase the comprehensive range of services it offers.

The redesigned website features a modern and intuitive interface, making it easier for visitors to navigate and access essential information about Alexis Coates and the consulting services provided. The site includes detailed insights into the consulting process, client success stories, and the latest industry trends, offering a valuable resource for businesses looking to thrive in today's competitive landscape.

Key Features of www.alexiscoates.com:

1. Service Offerings: Learn about the diverse range of consulting services tailored to meet the unique needs of clients across various industries.

2. Client Success Stories: Explore real-world examples of how Alexis Coates Business Consulting has helped businesses achieve their goals and overcome challenges.

3. Blog and Resources: Stay updated on the latest industry trends, insights, and best practices through the blog and downloadable resources section.

4. Contact Information: Easily connect with Alexis Coates and the consulting team for inquiries, collaborations, or to schedule a consultation.

Alexis Coates, the founder of the consulting firm, expressed excitement about the website launch, stating, "Our new website reflects our commitment to providing clients with valuable resources and insights to navigate the complexities of today's business environment. We believe this platform will serve as a hub for businesses seeking strategic solutions and growth."

For more information about Alexis Coates Business Consulting and to explore the new website, visit www.alexiscoates.com.

About Alexis Coates Business Consulting: Alexis Coates Business Consulting is a leading consultancy firm specializing in providing strategic guidance and solutions to businesses across diverse industries. With a track record of success and a commitment to excellence, Alexis Coates and the consulting team collaborate with clients to drive innovation, optimize operations, and achieve sustainable growth.

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(BBR) Baltimore Maryland January 27, 2024 – Fairways and Putts, the vibrant and lifestyle brand founded by golf aficionado Luvon Dungee in 2020, is thrilled to announce groundbreaking enhancements to its customer experience. Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled service to golf enthusiasts of all skill levels, Fairways and Putts proudly introduces Free Premium Shipping, a Generous 14-Day Return Policy, and Product Protection via a comprehensive manufacturer warranty.

MORE THAN JUST A CLOTHING BRAND: More than a mere clothing brand, Fairways and Putts, spearheaded by Luvon Dungee, seamlessly integrates the essence of your golfing passion into meticulously designed apparel. Recognizing that golf is more than just a sport; it's a lifestyle, our collection effortlessly transitions from the course to daily life. With Fairways and Putts, you can embrace the rhythm of every swing and make every stroke count.

SHADOW COLLECTION: Introducing our iconic performance apparel, the Shadow Collection seamlessly blends golf-ready functionality with versatile style suitable for any occasion. This exclusive collection features new designs and updated favorites, ensuring a lightweight and mobile experience whether you're on the course, in the clubhouse, or exploring town.

It's all in the name – Fairways and Putts stands as a dynamic and lifestyle clothing brand catering to golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Our emphasis on stylish and comfortable designs sets us apart, striking the perfect balance between fashion and function. As we chart our course forward, we eagerly anticipate expanding our product line with accessories, exploring exciting collaborations, and reaching new markets through online channels.

Fairways and Putts extends a warm invitation to golf enthusiasts seeking the ideal fusion of style and performance. Elevate your golf lifestyle with us.

For media inquiries, please contact: Fairways and Putts https://fairwaysandputts.com/

(BBR) Building a successful business requires immense dedication, strategic planning, and a thorough understanding of potential pitfalls. Unfortunately, not every entrepreneurial venture achieves the desired level of success. Business crashes can occur due to various factors, and it is crucial for entrepreneurs to identify and address these issues to prevent a catastrophic outcome. In this article, we will explore the top ten reasons behind a business crash and provide insights on how to avoid them.

1. Poor Financial Management:

One of the primary reasons businesses fail is inadequate financial management. Entrepreneurs must maintain accurate financial records, understand cash flow, and allocate resources efficiently. Failing to keep a close eye on finances can lead to excessive debt, insufficient working capital, and an inability to meet financial obligations.

2. Lack of Market Research:

A lack of understanding about the target market can be disastrous. Entrepreneurs must conduct comprehensive market research to identify their customers, analyze competitors, and anticipate market trends. Neglecting this crucial step can result in developing products or services that do not meet customer needs, leading to poor sales and eventual failure.

3. Ineffective Marketing Strategies:

Even with a remarkable product or service, a business can crash if it fails to reach the right audience. Ineffective marketing strategies, including a lack of brand visibility, poor messaging, or an inadequate online presence, can hinder business growth. It is essential to invest in targeted marketing campaigns and utilize various channels to engage with potential customers.

4. Ignoring Customer Feedback:

Customers are the lifeblood of any business. Ignoring their feedback and failing to adapt to their needs can lead to a significant downfall. Regularly soliciting customer opinions, addressing complaints, and continuously improving products or services based on feedback is crucial for long-term success.

5. Poor Leadership and Decision-making:

Strong leadership is imperative for guiding a business to success. Poor decision-making, lack of vision, or an inability to adapt to changing circumstances can lead to a business crash. Entrepreneurs should foster a culture of open communication, encourage collaboration, and surround themselves with competent team members who can provide valuable insights and expertise.

6. Failure to Innovate:

In today's dynamic business landscape, failing to innovate can quickly render a company obsolete. Industries evolve rapidly, and businesses must adapt to stay competitive. Neglecting to invest in research and development, failing to introduce new products or services, or being resistant to change can result in losing market share to more innovative competitors.

7. Insufficient Scalability:

A business crash can occur if a company fails to scale its operations effectively. Rapid growth without proper planning and infrastructure can lead to inefficiencies, customer dissatisfaction, and operational failures. Entrepreneurs should anticipate growth and have robust systems in place to support expansion.

8. Lack of a Strong Team:

No business can succeed without a competent and motivated team. A lack of skilled employees, poor team dynamics, or high turnover rates can hinder productivity and impact overall business performance. Building a strong team, investing in employee training and development, and fostering a positive work environment are essential for sustained success.

9. Inadequate Risk Management:

Entrepreneurs must identify and mitigate risks to ensure long-term business sustainability. Failure to assess potential risks, including economic downturns, technological advancements, or changes in regulations, can have severe consequences. Developing contingency plans and regularly reassessing risks can help mitigate their impact.

10. Inadequate Adaptation to Technology:

In today's digital age, businesses that fail to embrace technology may find themselves at a significant disadvantage. Adopting outdated systems, neglecting to leverage digital marketing tools, or lacking an online presence can limit growth potential. Embracing technology and staying abreast of industry trends is essential for remaining competitive.

Conclusion:

While building a successful business is challenging, understanding and addressing the reasons behind business crashes can help entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls. By maintaining sound financial management, conducting market research, developing effective marketing strategies, prioritizing customer feedback, fostering strong leadership, encouraging innovation, scaling operations efficiently, building a competent team, managing risks, and embracing technology, entrepreneurs can enhance their chances of long-term success. Remember, learning from mistakes and continuously adapting are key elements of a resilient and thriving business.

(BBR)   Have you ever heard the phrase "living rent-free in your head"? It's often used to describe people who we can't seem to stop thinking about, even if they are no longer a part of our lives. These people can be ex-partners, former friends, or even people we never actually had a relationship with. They take up space in our minds, and we can't seem to evict them.

So, who is still living in your head rent-free? Is it an ex-partner who you can't seem to forget? Or perhaps it's a friend who hurt you in the past. Whatever the case may be, it's important to understand why these people are still occupying your thoughts.

One possibility is that you haven't fully processed the emotions associated with the person. Maybe you were hurt by them and never had the chance to fully express how you felt. Or perhaps you have unresolved feelings for them and haven't been able to let go.

Another possibility is that you are holding onto the past. You might be romanticizing a past relationship or friendship, and not seeing it for what it truly was. You may also be afraid of moving on and creating new relationships.

It's important to recognize when someone is living rent-free in your head, and take steps to evict them. This might mean confronting your emotions and talking to someone about how you feel. It might also mean making a conscious effort to focus on the present and future, rather than dwelling on the past.

Ultimately, the people who are living in your head rent-free are taking up valuable mental real estate that could be better used for positive thoughts and experiences. By acknowledging their presence and taking steps to evict them, you can create more space for positivity and growth in your life

(BBR)  Sysco, a leading global food distribution company, has recently welcomed Antwon Edwards as their new Transportation Training Manager. Edwards comes with a wealth of experience, having spent 8 years as a Transportation Manager with DHLs where he made significant contributions to the company's success. He was instrumental in implementing the first in-house CDL exam class and became certified within Maryland to do so.

But his contributions to the transportation industry don't end there. Edwards co-founded the Always Available CDL Permit Program, which helps adults learn the permit book by reading it to them and answering any questions they may have. This program has helped many aspiring drivers overcome the hurdles of obtaining a CDL permit and has contributed to reducing the driver shortage crisis in the industry.

But Edwards' dedication to the community doesn't stop with his professional career. He spends his free time volunteering at the Center of Urban Families for second chance adults, where he helps people with resume writing and the single dad program. He understands the importance of giving back to the community and has made it a priority in his life.

In addition to his passion for helping others, Edwards also enjoys fishing and smoking cigars. These hobbies allow him to unwind and recharge after a long day, and he often shares his catches with his colleagues at Sysco.

As the new Transportation Training Manager at Sysco, Edwards brings with him a unique skill set and a commitment to excellence. He understands the challenges faced by drivers and is passionate about developing training programs that can help them overcome these challenges. With his experience in implementing in-house CDL exam classes and co-founding the Always Available CDL Permit Program, Edwards is well-equipped to lead Sysco's transportation training efforts.

In conclusion, Antwon Edwards' appointment as Sysco's Transportation Training Manager is a significant development for the company and the transportation industry. His passion for helping others, dedication to the community, and experience in the industry make him an ideal candidate for the role. We can expect to see great things from Edwards in the coming years as he works to develop training programs that can help Sysco's drivers excel in their roles.

Contact Information

https://alwaysavailableparking.com

(BBR)  John Lewis has been appointed as the new CEO of the Harbor Bank of Maryland, taking over from Joseph Haskins Jr., who stepped down after 40 years of dedicated service. As the only Black-owned and -managed commercial bank in the state, the Harbor Bank has a long history of serving the black business community and promoting economic empowerment.

Lewis brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. He served as President and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation, where he was instrumental in driving economic development and community empowerment initiatives. Prior to that, he held various leadership positions in the public and private sectors, including serving as Chief of Staff to the former Baltimore City Council President.

In addition to his extensive professional background, Lewis has also been an active member of the Harbor Bank's board of directors for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the bank's operations and mission, and is committed to continuing its legacy of supporting black-owned businesses and promoting inclusive economic growth.

Under Lewis's leadership, the Harbor Bank plans to focus on expanding its reach and impact, developing new products and services to better serve the needs of its customers, and leveraging technology to enhance customer experiences. He also recognizes the bank's important role in advocating for racial equity and social justice, and plans to continue supporting community initiatives and advocating for policies that promote inclusive economic growth and address systemic inequalities.

The appointment of John Lewis as CEO of the Harbor Bank of Maryland is a significant development for the black business community in the state. With his extensive experience and commitment to promoting economic empowerment, Lewis is well-positioned to lead the bank into a new era of growth and success. We look forward to seeing the positive impact he will have on the bank and the broader community.

(BBR)  It’s been a relatively good few years for African-American small business owners.

According to a subset of data in the 2020 State of Small Business report from Guidant Financial and the Lending Club, African-American small business owners are happy these days.

In fact, 70% of them say they are either “somewhat happy” or “very happy” with their businesses. And 72% of African-American small business owners say their businesses are “currently profitable.”

However, the study also shows African-American business owners are “are less confident than the average small business owner about the state of small business in this political climate, with 53% of African-Americans saying they are either “somewhat confident” or “very confident” compared to 60% of average small business owners saying the same.

Startup motivations

Being “ready to be my own boss” was the primary reason African-American survey respondents started their businesses (34%). This was followed by a “desire to pursue my own passion” (29%), “dissatisfaction with corporate America” (13%), and “the opportunity presented itself” (10%). These stats are a bit of a change since a previous Guidant survey showed 62% started a business to “pursue their passion.”

Diversity of African-American business owners

Overall, African-American small business owners are younger and include more women than the general small business population. The study reports 22% of African-American small business owners are millennials, nearly twice as many as the 12% of millennial small business owners in the general population.

African-American women entrepreneurs

The Guidant report shows, “There are more female African-American small business owners than the general population of business owners. In the American small business universe, 27% of small businesses are women, among African-American owned businesses, 35% are women.

The American Express 2019 State of Women-Owned Businesses

 report has slightly different numbers about African-American/Black women-owned businesses:

• # of businesses: 2,681,200 . That’s 21% of all women-owned businesses, making it the largest segment of women-owned businesses after non-minority women.
• Growth rate: Grown at an annual rate for the past year of 12% compared to an 8% annual growth rate between 2014 and 2019. Represents the highest rate of growth of any group in the number of firms between 2014 and 2019 and between 2018 and 2019.

The concerning stat is about earned average revenue. African-American businesses owned by women in this report earned an average of $24,000 per firm vs. $142,900 among all women-owned businesses. This gap, says the report, is “the greatest of any minority [group].

According to digitalundivided’s Project Diane 2018 report, The State of Black Women Founders ( the report is issued every two years) the number of startups founded by Black women more than doubled from 2016 to 2018—to less than 4%. But that’s small compared to the percentage of Black women in the U.S. (14% of women in the U.S. are Black). Nearly half of all African-American women-led startups were in California and New York.

In fact, according to BlackBusiness.com, New York state has the most (regardless of the gender of the owner) Black-owned businesses—-204,093—which is 10.6% of the businesses in the state, followed by Georgia, Florida, and Texas. However, Washington DC has the highest percentage of Black-owned businesses in the country with 28%.

Challenges for African-American business owners

Lack of capital and cash flow is the biggest challenge for African-American small business owners, according to Guidant. That’s not really a surprise since those are the same problems most small business owners face.

But fewer African-American small businesses are approved for financing, often at lower amounts of money with higher interest rates, according to a report in The Washington Post. Guidant reports that the “wealth gap also contributes to financing challenges…making it harder to [get] financing. Without the funds to invest in as many resources as other businesses, such as hiring talent or marketing and advertising, competing for contracts or attracting clients becomes exponentially more difficult.”

Small business can be a lonely venture

A report, 8 Insights on the State of Black Entrepreneurship, from American Express reports 47% of African-American small business owners run their businesses by themselves, compared to the 33% of average small business owners. And African-American businesses have fewer employees: 38% have 2-5 employees and only 7% have 6-10 employees. This compares with the average small business owner, with 41% employing 2-5 workers and 12% employing six to 10 workers.

Getting funding

More African-American small business owners (44%) use cash to fund their businesses than the average small business owner (37%), according to the Guidant report. Only 15% get help from friends and family, which was the second most popular source of capital for African-American business owners.

Other funding sources for African-American business owners include:

• Lines of credit
• Rollovers for Business Start-ups (ROBS), financing that allows small business owners to tap into eligible retirement accounts to fund their businesses without tax penalties. Guidant says this grew by 21% in popularity among African-American small businesses year over year.
• Unsecured loans
• Peer-to-peer
• Equipment leasing
• SBA loans

And according to Project Diane, the picture for African-American women is equally challenging—since “2009, Black women led startups have raised $289MM in venture/angel funding, with a significant portion of that raised in 2017. This represents .0006% of the $424.7 billion in total tech venture funding raised since 2009.”

Entrepreneurship is in many ways, a mirror to life — you start with a blank page and a head full of ideas. How you fill that page will depend on a lot of inner characteristics — vision, patience, perseverance, empathy, stubbornness. Plus, one external thing— “a dash of luck”.

Often enough, “luck” is the collective term for the things we don’t talk about, the things we shush. The elusive “luck” is in many ways, “uncomfortable” things like privilege, background, family, connections, etc.

For Black entrepreneurs, the above kind of “luck” has been so minimal — or even nonexistent — that they went on to defy it and create their own. We can only admire the courage of the people who beat the odds of life and became not just successful entrepreneurs but role models far beyond their communities.

Today, I’d like to give an ear to their stories — the stories of the Black entrepreneurs next door who made it when all the odds were against them. They “beat the odds”. So can you.

1. Antonio Wells: “Never let someone who lacks vision stop yours”

Today, Antonio Wells is the owner of Chicago-based brand growth and marketing agency NAMYNOT Inc.

Helping businesses from start-ups to Fortune 100 companies grow their brand, Antonio is a serial entrepreneur who started a tech review company back in 2009. Back then, launching on a “shoestring budget”, Antonio was able to grow the company organically into a global leader in the app review industry, and successfully sell it.

“In 2009, I started a popular mobile app review site called AndroidTapp.com. With great content, a mastery of SEO, and good ole fashion journalism. The company never received funding and was able to grow exponentially by reinvesting,” Antonio says. “The greatest challenge I faced was lack of funding [and] lack of knowledge in finding alternative ways of gaining funding. However, I turned this lack into execution by working with what I had and continually reinvesting (oftentimes 100%) until I hit a point of profitability.”

For Antonio, the most important thing in life has been to never give in when others fail to believe in you or your business. Even such a critical aspect as lack of funding for business isn’t enough reason to give up on your goal.

Business tip

Antonio’s business journey shows that strategic financial planning is vital to any startup or growing business. But on top of that, his motto is to never let even well-meaning advisors (of which there’ll be plenty) to interfere with your vision. Whatever the financial hardship, there’s a way to adapt the means to your goals. Some of the best ways to cut back on business costs are reinvesting in the business, studying profit margins, and building a simple financial model for your business.

2. Jamie R.Wright: “It’s not that I’ve always known who I would be, it was just very clear to me who I wouldn’t be.”

Starting or growing a business during a pandemic is an immense challenge in itself. Starting a business as a victim of domestic violence in the middle of a pandemic, while fighting for your safety at a women’s shelter around Houston, TX, is something that takes unprecedented courage.

Jamie Wright is one such amazing woman. Fighting not just for her life, but for the life of women in similar circumstances as she, she became a trauma & self-love advocate, author, motivational speaker and ambassador for women subjected to domestic abuse. Jamie’s story and practical advice has already been shared on BBC News, CBS, Fox 26, 60 Minutes Quibi and more.

“As a survivor of domestic violence, I share my story of triumph in a way that inspires others,” Jamie says “I also provide practical ‘how-to’ tips and tools in an effort to help others radically transform their lives. The greatest business challenge I faced overcoming my self-doubt and disempowering thoughts by realizing that all that I needed was within me. I may have been victimized, but I AM NOT a victim. Adversity is an opportunity to remind/show myself how strong and resilient I am.”

Business tip

A survivor of domestic violence that has accomplished everything through her faith and courage, Jamie’s motto is a paraphrase of Oprah’s quote, “It’s not that I’ve always known who I would be, it was just very clear to me who I wouldn’t be.” Whatever life situation you’re currently in, Jamie reminds you to find a community that will guide and support you, like an online business community for Black entrepreneurs. Seeking help isn’t about a lack of courage. It’s about real, hands-on courage. When we are backed by people who understand our experiences, we can move mountains — even in times of a pandemic and personal trauma.

3. Vid Lamonte’ Buggs Jr.: “To persevere and overcome the odds, have a warrior mindset and live a warrior lifestyle”

People often call Vid Buggs the “modern Renaissance man”, i.e., a man of many talents. He is owner of an entrepreneur, bestselling author, athlete, public speaker — and that’s just a part of his accomplishments.

But throughout his childhood, it seemed the odds were turned against Vid. Born with a medical condition that made doctors believe he wouldn’t be able to walk or run normally, and facing academic challenges in school, he went on to graduate with the highest honors, obtain multiple degrees, engage in sports, and find his life’s purpose in a hidden talent.

“It was 2013–2014 and I just was waived by an NBDL team,” Vid says. “My girlfriend and I were expecting a baby girl. [We were] in Florida without any family to help during one of the most challenging times in my life. However, due to this crossroads, I decided to pursue some goals I had put on the backburner. Those goals were starting a Publishing Company, starting an Enterprise, Publish a book, and Public Speak on a national level. Through basketball training and money I had saved up, I was able to publish my book, “You Ain’t Hungry Until I’m Starving”, with the help of Marci Wise. I also was able to start both of my companies.”

Business tip

As Vid says, “No matter what we want to do or who we want to be in life, we will go through challenges. People will doubt us, and tell us what odds are against us. In order, to persevere, overcome the odds and be successful, a person must have a warrior mindset and live a warrior lifestyle.”  In other words, if you want to change your life, start with changing your mindset and acquiring key business skills like communication, networking, sales negotiation, and digital skills.

4. “Michele Davis: “Take the time to discover what makes you happy and fulfilled in every aspect of your life.”

One day in 2016, Michele took the leap of faith many would’ve considered improbable. At 45 years of age, she became a first-time entrepreneur with no prior experience. Back then, she launched Marketing Gem Solutions, a website design, branding, and SMM company supporting female entrepreneurs.

Through her active learning and perseverance, Michele’s business story soon took off. But only three years later, personal tragedy struck. Michele’s son died, leaving her heartbroken after the greatest challenge a human being can face. Surprisingly, one day she found the courage and fearlessness to rise up and even reinvent her business.

“After I felt emotionally able to return to the world […] I decided to contact clients just to check in on their progress in their business. The more I spoke to the women, the more I realized they needed business mentorship. That’s when I decided to provide [them with] a step-by-step blueprint. My focus with Phenomenal Boss Academy is helping women launch a profitable and sustainable business in 90-days or less.”

Business tip

For many people, starting a business after 40, or even starting a business after 50 with no experience to boot, sounds frightening. But for Michele, it has become more than a plan B, but an unexpected support that helped her come back to life through helping others. This is why she’s an advocate of the spiritual, mindful approach to business concepts. “I always advise people to take the time to discover what makes you happy and fulfilled in every aspect of your life. Evaluate what you need spiritually, emotionally, financially, and so forth to make you feel happy and fulfilled.” When your business is about more than “work”, your success becomes a link between other people. To paraphrase Vernon Jordan, standing on the shoulders of others, you lend your own shoulder to those following you.

5. Jen Ngozi: “Cancel Perfectionism!”

Jen Ngozi grew up in a first-generation African immigrant family who came to the U.S. with nothing but $10 in their pockets. Growing up in a minority community, she had no corporate-American parents, birth privilege, or business role models to emulate.

Set on working hard and giving back, Jen fought for and forged her own path in business and went on to found NetWerk, a global woman in leadership movement and organization helping everyday women worldwide build the community, confidence, and skills needed to become leaders. Jen’s movement has met with worldwide acclaim and partnered up with brands like Teen Vogue and the United Nations Foundation. Her secret? Letting go of perfectionism in favor of lifelong learning.

“It’s important to embrace the entire process of building an organization, including mistakes,” Jen says. “Throughout my business journey, I learned how detrimental perfectionism is to growth. And I’ve decided that we never really make mistakes, we only get better aligned to our original purpose. [You could say that] mistakes made my vision clearer.”

Business tip

Cutting out perfectionism aka the “all or nothing mindset” is what Jen considers the biggest asset in business and life. If perfectionism is your roadblock, don’t stop doing what you’re doing. Keep on doing it while you learn more. Jen says that it’s been mentorship that propelled her business forward drastically. She relies on SCORE, the SBA’s volunteer mentor organization from/to small business owners where anyone can connect to a business mentor for free, or sign up to mentor others. If you’re starting a business, learning practical financial practices, strategies to cut back on business costs, and filling inevitable gaps in your business, sales, or marketing knowledge is a shortcut through mentorship.

Final word

Black History Month isn’t just a celebration of roots, courage, and overcoming. It’s also an important lesson for every single community, minority group, and underprivileged society. A lesson about creating our own “luck” — and fate.

Like African American film director Spike Lee said, “I believe in destiny. But I also believe that you can’t just sit back and let destiny happen.”

Don’t wait for destiny to happen. If that’s what you’ve been dreaming about, become an entrepreneur. Beat all the odds.

A lot of what we know about the iPhone 12 range is suddenly in doubt and it’s not all good news. But now new information has revealed that everyone is in for a shock when it comes to Apple’s most exciting new model.

In an eye-opening exclusive, hugely popular YouTuber Filip Koroy (aka EverythingApplePro) has revealed that Apple’s all-new (cut-price) 5.4-inch iPhone 12 will be the smallest iPhone the company has sold in years. The result is the truly compact yet premium device millions have wanted ever since smartphones grew to the size of tablets. 

06/20 Update: Koroy has followed up his chassis leaks with new information on the CADs that allowed him to mold the full iPhone 12 line-up. He explains that "examining these CADs we can tell that they are definitely recent, they are not the old December ones from 2019 which had the smart connector [since moved to the 2021 iPhone]... and these molds paint a completely different picture than what was suggested." Changes include a larger camera layout with different lens spacing and, crucially, no smaller notch and no LiDAR sensor. That said, the same caveats remain about the details Apple is likely to be holding back from case makers, who are believed to be the source of these latest CADs once again. Given the stunning design detail we have already seen based on previous leaks, even Koroy hopes his sources are wrong. Either way, there is a clear split developing in the leaker community over whether Apple will be delivering a major design update with the iPhone 12 or simply a flat-edged clone of the iPhone 11 models.

“People who love tiny phones are in for a treat with the new 5.4-in iPhone. Smaller than a new SE!” exclaimed Koroy, who illustrated this using a new mold of the handset alongside Apple’s recently released 4.7-inch (gen 2) iPhone SE. 


Apple achieves this because the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 uses a bezel-less design. And Koroy has further good news, explaining that the large notch you see in the video is unlikely to be final. That’s because the mold comes from schematics given to case makers. While case makers need extremely accurate dimensions, they don’t need the information about the notch or number of cameras so Apple uses the previous design.

How small exactly is the new 5.4-inch iPhone 12? Koroy has yet to provide exact measurements, but they look close to the early dimensions attained by Macotakara back in February. I have put them below, alongside official dimensions of other iPhones for context: 

5.4-inch iPhone 12: 131 x 64 mm (5.15 x 2.51-inches)
4.7-inch iPhone SE (2020): 138 x 67 mm (5.43 x 2.65-inches)
4-inch iPhone SE (2016): 123 x 58 mm (4.84 x 2.28-inches)
5.8-inch iPhone 11 Pro: 144 x 71.4 mm (5.67 x 2.81 x 0.32-inches)

You’ll spot that the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 is also narrower than the 4.7-inch iPhone SE. This is because Apple’s bezel-less design uses a display with a 19.5:9 aspect ratio which is longer and narrower than the 16:9 ratio used in both iPhone SE models. 

Downsides? The big omissions are the 120Hz ProMotion Display and new LiDAR sensor heading to iPhone 12 Pro models, while the optical zoom lens will again remain a Pro-exclusive in 2020. That said, the 5.4-inch iPhone 12, like the (newly renamed) 6.1-inch iPhone 12 Max, will have 5G, step up to an OLED display and use the same primary cameras and ballistic new A14 chipset as the Pros. 


So while smartphone fans will have heated debates about whether Apple’s iPhone 12 Pro models beat the competition, what’s far more interesting is no rival has anything to compete with the size+specifications of the 5.4-inch iPhone 12. For me, that makes it 2020’s most exciting smartphone

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