Sometimes, the person that inspires you the most isn't always in plain sight. There's a surplus of people who inspire me, in different ways. But the person who inspires me the most is a man by the name of Taj Jones, founder and executive director of Totally Positive Productions. The reason I believe Taj is the black entrepreneur who inspires me most is his support of my pursuits, his guidance, and his grit along with independence.

 

Firstly, without Mr. Jones I wouldn't be in the position I'm in today. He's taken my abilities and crafted them, and smoothed and molded them into something it might've taken me years to form, all in a matter of months, arguably weeks. When I first met Mr. Jones it was simply in hopes of participating in a talent competition. I came in with high hopes and even higher confidence, which was backed up during my audition. But when I forgot my final stanza, I had frozen, and that was a mistake. Mr. Jones recognized it, but he didn't dismiss it. He gave me a second chance, seeing potential in what I had already presented, deciding that instead of sending me on my own merry way, he would try and hone what I already had, transforming it into something even better and giving me countless opportunities to showcase my talents, one of which included the Black Women's Expo. 

 

Secondly, his guidance is what has delivered me to where I am today. On and off the stage, I am responsible for my own improvement, even when that "improvement" is simple, small steps. But a little progress adds up to big results. When we rehearse, he tries to understand the route that I'm taking in order to give me tips and advice on how to make that idea even more powerful to an audience. He gives me breakdowns of the stage, movements, projection, and flow, and all the elements of a great performance. From the smallest one to the most important, I am thankful.

 

Finally, Mr. Jones' organization helps the less fortunate, foster children, children of the neighborhood, and performers like me. He keeps the business centered around God while still leaving room for fun and expression. He gives participants cultural enrichment field trips, dining, fun social activities, and so much more. Mr. Jones seems to be the man that has it all. He almost single-handedly runs a business for the performing arts and to give back. Not to mention he's also a performer. Juggling two different careers is not for the weak of heart, and that is the antithesis of Mr. Jones.

 

So in conclusion, the black entrepreneur that inspires me most is none other than Taj Jones, founder and executive director of Totally Positive Productions. He's been my rock since day one, and I'll continue on working with myself, him, my family, and everyone else around me. Though there are points where I reflect and wish that I could be in his shoes, I remember I have nothing but time. We can't change the past, but we can always change the future, and the best time to start is the present.

 

-Akira Slaughter (a.k.a. AK'S Revenge)