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Tag: Invest Fest

  • Veronika Payne Builds Community with Ora Ana Jewelry

    Invest Fest has become a vital platform for entrepreneurs to connect and share their visions, and Veronika Payne, founder of Ora Ana jewelry, was a standout voice this year. Payne is not only redefining modern jewelry through her artistry but is also deeply committed to building community around her brand.

    Ora Ana: Quality, Sustainability, and Community

    Payne explained that Ora Ana, her debut collection, is crafted from recyclable sterling silver, natural gemstones, and 18-karat gold. This commitment to quality materials ensures pieces are hypoallergenic, resistant to tarnishing, and built to last. “We use natural gemstones, and 18 karrot gold and rose gold, which means no rusting no tarnishing, and hypoallergenic. So its quality jewlery for any one with sensitivities,” Payne shared, emphasizing accessibility and durability.

    The brand’s name, Ora Ana, which translates to “no one,” reflects Payne’s core mission: community. For her, the jewelry is a vehicle for giving back, uplifting others, and creating something meaningful that extends beyond profit. “My customers, its about my art, i Just want to be here, and share the things I love with the people I love,” she said, framing her work as a connection between her art and her audience.

    Invest Fest: A Community of Like-Minded Individuals

    Payne found Invest Fest to be the ideal environment to share her vision, surrounded by fellow entrepreneurs and creatives who share similar values. “Im very happy with the commmunity that has come out, every one is eager, and of the same mindset, excited to other people,” she reflected. The event provided not only professional success with new business connections but also a deeply fulfilling experience.

    Payne’s approach demonstrates that true success lies not just in sales, but in the impact a brand has on its community. Ora Ana stands out by building bonds and fostering connections, proving that creativity and purpose can go hand-in-hand. Her journey with Ora Ana is a powerful reminder of the impact that art with purpose can have.

    What do you admire most about Veronika Payne’s approach to building community with Ora Ana Jewelry? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Carlos Walker Inspires at Invest Fest with Resilience

    Invest Fest, a global gathering for entrepreneurs and creators, buzzed with energy this year in Atlanta, showcasing a vibrant array of brands, art, and ideas. Among the many inspiring voices was artist and author Carlos Walker, whose personal journey from incarceration to international acclaim captivated attendees and served as a powerful testament to resilience and creativity.

    From Prison to Prestigious Platforms

    Walker, who spent 13 years in prison, shared his story with remarkable honesty. “I am with two brands but I’m also a brand myself,” he explained, promoting his book ‘What If.’ “I did 13 years in prison, came back six years ago, I’m showing where I’ve been and where I am today.” This candidness resonated deeply with the Invest Fest audience, who understood the profound challenge of transforming struggle into triumph.

    His artwork has graced significant venues like the World Trade Center, underscoring the widespread impact of his creative vision. However, at Invest Fest, it was Walker’s personal narrative of resilience and inspiration that truly stood out, demonstrating how creativity can be a powerful force for transformation.

    Celebrating Culture and Inspiring Action

    Walker emphasized the significance of seeing Black creatives thrive at events like Invest Fest. “Anytime I can see black people doing, what black people do, which is being the culture, inspiring people, to me, it blows my mind,” he shared. “I’m always excited when I see things like this. To me it exuberayting, and will make you go home and do ten times more to come back and bring that back next year.”

    His presence added a unique layer of meaning to the festival, which is known for its business leaders and networking opportunities but also serves as a vital platform for artists, writers, and cultural voices. Walker’s passion perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Invest Fest, where attendees leave not just with information, but with renewed energy and inspiration.

    Faith, Resilience, and Vendor Advice

    For vendors at Invest Fest, standing out requires confidence, faith, and strong branding. Walker offered advice rooted in his own journey: “If you’re a vendor, take in information, but also if your a vendor have faith. They say you have to spend money to make money, you have to have faith to take those steps.” His belief in himself has been a driving force, from rebuilding his life post-incarceration to achieving global recognition for his art.

    Walker’s story is a powerful reminder that inspiration can be found in overcoming obstacles, and that creativity, faith, and resilience are essential tools for success. His presence at Invest Fest served as a living embodiment of the festival’s core message: transforming hardship into achievement and using one’s voice for positive change.

    What inspires you most about Carlos Walker’s journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • 5 Ways to Support Uncle Nearest CEO Fawn Weaver

    Fawn Weaver, the trailblazing founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest whiskey, is facing a period of receivership, but her message is one of strength and unwavering resolve. She emphasizes that she built the company, owns it, and runs it, backed by a dedicated leadership team. This moment, she asserts, is not an end but a test of resilience on the path to an even greater legacy. Uncle Nearest represents more than just whiskey; it’s a commitment to honoring history, empowering communities, and redefining leadership in business. Weaver’s team remains “unshaken and unmoved,” and she’s invited the community to stand with her. Here are five powerful ways to show your support:

    1. Clear the Shelves, Fill the Spirit

    Weaver’s simple yet profound call to action is “Clear the shelves.” Every purchase of Uncle Nearest is a tangible vote of confidence in her vision and the legacy of Nearest Green, the first known African American master distiller. By consciously choosing Uncle Nearest at restaurants, bars, and retailers, supporters send a powerful message that the brand’s foundation is robust and valued.

    2. Echo Her Resilience

    The words “unshaken and unmoved,” spoken by Weaver, perfectly encapsulate her leadership and the spirit of Uncle Nearest. Amplifying her message, sharing her powerful quotes, and echoing her resilience on social media helps shape a positive public narrative. This collective voice reminds everyone that true leaders are defined by their strength during adversity, not by avoiding challenges.

    3. Protect the Legacy

    Weaver consistently frames Uncle Nearest as “so much bigger than the current news cycle.” At its core, the company is dedicated to honoring Nearest Green’s descendants and ensuring his historical contributions are never forgotten. Supporters can actively protect this legacy by championing the Nearest Green Foundation, supporting its scholarship programs, and reinforcing that this work is about justice, history, and heritage, extending far beyond mere business transactions.

    4. Celebrate the Team Behind the Vision

    While Fawn Weaver is the prominent face of Uncle Nearest, she consistently highlights her leadership team, many of whom have been with her for six to eight years. In challenging times like these, acknowledging their dedication is vital. Sharing gratitude, supporting their updates, and celebrating their collective achievements underscores the strength and unity that have propelled Uncle Nearest’s remarkable growth.

    5. Invest in the Future Story

    Receivership might be a headline, but it doesn’t define the entire narrative. Uncle Nearest continues to be one of America’s fastest-growing whiskey brands, with a presence in tens of thousands of locations nationwide. Believing in Weaver’s vision means looking beyond the current challenges and recognizing the long-term story of legacy, innovation, and transformation. Supporting her by encouraging partnerships, sharing milestones, or maintaining faith in her leadership is an investment in the future she is determined to build.

    Fawn Weaver’s journey is a powerful reminder that building a lasting legacy often involves facing resistance. Her unwavering spirit and the community’s willingness to stand with her are paramount. Supporting her now is not just about preserving a brand; it’s about affirming a leader who has shattered barriers, honored history, and inspired countless others. In times of trial, we don’t just witness history; we help shape it. And right now, history calls on us to stand with Fawn Weaver.

    How will you support Fawn Weaver and the Uncle Nearest legacy? Share your commitment in the comments below!

  • Ray Daniels at Invest Fest: Who Owns Black Culture?

    At the recent Invest Fest, a vibrant gathering for creative entrepreneurs, artists, and influencers, music executive and culture critic Ray Daniels dropped a powerful question that resonated deeply: “Who owns the culture?” His conversation with the Jay Hill Podcast highlighted a critical issue facing Black creators today – the gap between cultural influence and actual ownership.

    From Talent to Owner: The Ownership Question

    Daniels pointed out that while Black culture is the driving force behind music, fashion, podcasts, and global trends, the creators often receive applause while others reap the financial rewards. He challenged the audience, many of whom are talented creators, to consider why they are still primarily seen as talent rather than owners. Gatekeeping, unfavorable contracts, and misplaced trust, he argued, have kept too many creators from fully benefiting from their own success.

    His core message was clear: “Who owns the IP? Who owns the likeness? Who owns the bag?” Daniels stressed that until creators shift from being employees to employers, and from being hired to being the ones doing the hiring, this cycle of limited ownership will persist. This fundamental shift is crucial for building sustainable success and true financial independence.

    Faith, Accountability, and Facing Truths

    Daniels’ philosophy is grounded in faith and a commitment to accountability. He shared a personal promise made in 2004 to help others who looked like him navigate the industry if he achieved success. This commitment fuels his transparent approach, as he encourages creators to confront uncomfortable truths about ownership and exploitation, rather than waiting for external validation or rescue.

    Using “The Wizard of Oz” as an analogy, Daniels suggested that the power creators seek from external sources like labels or corporations is already within them. He urged the audience to recognize their inherent strength, wisdom, and courage, emphasizing that external validation is not the path to true success. He also touched on the Virgo trait of perfectionism, acknowledging how it can be both a hindrance and a tool for honing one’s craft.

    The Power of Self-Belief and Aligned Energy

    Daniels concluded with a powerful message about the synergy of self-belief and faith. When you trust your God-given gifts, he explained, the right opportunities and people are naturally drawn to you, while negative influences fade away. It’s about aligning your energy, being intentional with your work, and refusing to let exploitation dictate your legacy. This mindset empowers creators to build their own systems and secure the financial rewards for the culture they create.

    What are your thoughts on Ray Daniels’ message about ownership in the creative economy? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • Hurrier CEO Connects Diaspora Via Shipping

    Joel Freckleton, the CEO and founder of Hurrier, is making waves in the shipping industry with an innovative peer-to-peer model. His platform connects travelers heading to specific destinations with businesses needing international delivery, promising to cut shipping costs by 50% and deliver packages in just 2-3 business days.

    Hurrier: Faster, Cheaper, Smarter Shipping

    Freckleton explained the simple yet effective process at Invest Fest. For merchants, items are shipped to airport partners, where travelers pick them up. These travelers, who can earn money or travel for less, then carry the pre-screened packages to their destinations. This model offers a compelling alternative to traditional courier services, especially for small and medium-sized businesses facing high international shipping rates.

    “If you’re a small or medium-sized merchant, you simply would ship your item to one of our airport partners, and as a traveler, you would pick up the item within the airport already screened and carry to the specific destination,” Freckleton explained. “Travelers, you can travel more for less, and shippers, you can ship a lot of items individually or in bulk for less as well.”

    Connecting the Black Diaspora Through Commerce

    Freckleton highlighted the cultural impact of Hurrier, particularly its role in connecting Black diaspora communities. “A lot of persons here are doing fantastic things, and most importantly, a lot of value creation for the culture and for the Black culture,” he said about Invest Fest. “We’re not talking just in terms of specific geographical locations; it’s really global and transnational.”

    Hurrier’s mission extends beyond logistics; it fosters economic connections by catering to the needs of Black-owned businesses and travelers. This approach combines practical business solutions with cultural connectivity, representing a new wave of entrepreneurship that is both profitable and purposeful.

    Impressions from Invest Fest

    Freckleton shared his positive impressions of Invest Fest, noting the high energy and intelligence of the attendees. “So many highly intelligent and focused people, Black people specifically. Lots of persons here who are looking to gain knowledge in investments, self-development. Really a great event so far,” he commented, praising EYL for organizing the event.

    His vision for Hurrier, which aims to build bridges between communities while solving real business challenges, makes him a standout presence at events like Invest Fest, where the next generation of Black entrepreneurs are actively reshaping industries.

    What do you think of Hurrier’s innovative shipping model? Could this be the future of international delivery? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Kylin Cockerham Brings Berleaux Elegance to Invest Fest

    Fashion entrepreneur Kylin Cockerham is making his presence felt at Invest Fest, representing his brand Berleaux. The company’s philosophy, “elegance made simple,” extends beyond clothing to encompass all aspects of life, aiming to bring clarity and simplicity to personal journeys.

    Learning and Connecting at Invest Fest

    Cockerham shared his positive experience at Invest Fest, highlighting the community of like-minded entrepreneurs who openly share their successes and failures. “I love Invest Fest. I love it right now. I like the people here. A lot of people are friendly. People are open to communicate and they’re like-minded people,” he stated.

    For Cockerham, a key element of the festival is the opportunity to learn from others’ experiences. He emphasized the value of asking fellow entrepreneurs about their business lessons, stating, “My favorite element is learning from other people’s mistakes. Not saying that I watch them make a mistake, but going to ask them, hey, what did you learn in your business that maybe you could tell me or tell other people? So I can learn what you learned and now I can teach somebody else what not to do as well.”

    The Berleaux Brand Philosophy

    Introducing himself and his brand, Cockerham explained the meaning behind Berleaux. “Our brand name is Berleaux. Berleaux just means elegance made simple. Life should be simple. It shouldn’t be complicated,” he said. “So we strive to perfect that in our clothing so we can excel and pursue that throughout life as well.”

    This philosophy guides Berleaux’s designs, aiming to offer sophisticated yet uncomplicated pieces that empower individuals to embrace simplicity and clarity in their lives. His presence at Invest Fest underscores the brand’s commitment to connecting with and learning from the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem.

    What are your thoughts on the ‘elegance made simple’ philosophy? Share your insights in the comments below!