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Breaking News
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
Feature Stories & Profiles
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
Corporate Social Responsibility
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
Best Practices
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
Trending Stories
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
By Kim Anthony
•
September 4, 2023
The prospect of running for public office is both exciting and daunting. It offers an opportunity to make impactful changes, but it also exposes you to scrutiny and requires tremendous commitment. If you're contemplating throwing your hat into the political ring, it's essential to think through multiple factors before making your decision. Here are eight critical considerations to mull over: 1. Personal Readiness Entering politics is a life-altering choice, not just for you but also for your family and close ones. The demands on your time, privacy, and emotional well-being can be overwhelming. Questions to Ask : Are you emotionally, mentally, and physically prepared for the challenges? Have you discussed this with your family, and are they supportive? 2. Core Beliefs and Values Politics is an arena of competing interests and ideologies. Having a clear understanding of your core beliefs and values will guide your political journey. Questions to Ask : What causes or issues are most important to you? Are your views aligned with the electorate you wish to serve? 3. Skill Set and Qualifications Being in public office requires a diverse skill set, including but not limited to leadership, public speaking, and policy analysis. Questions to Ask : Do you possess the skills needed to succeed in office? If not, are you willing to learn or surround yourself with experts who do? 4. Financial Considerations Campaigning can be expensive, and public office may not offer the financial rewards that other careers do. Questions to Ask : Do you have the financial resources to run a campaign and sustain yourself in office? Are you ready to disclose your financial status, as is often required? 5. Electability and Public Perception Popularity and public perception play a crucial role in politics. Your history, conduct, and even appearance are often subject to public scrutiny. Questions to Ask : How are you perceived by the community? Do you have any skeletons in the closet that could become public and harm your candidacy? 6. Team and Support System A successful campaign requires a dedicated team for various functions: strategizing, fundraising, public relations, and more. Questions to Ask : Do you have a trustworthy team or know how to assemble one? Do you have mentors or advisors in the political arena? 7. Regulatory and Legal Requirements Different positions have different eligibility criteria, filing requirements, and regulations. Questions to Ask : Are you familiar with the legal requirements for the position you are considering? Do you meet the eligibility criteria? 8. Long-Term Goals and Exit Strategy Public office is often not a lifetime appointment. Whether you serve one term or multiple, you will eventually move on. Questions to Ask : What are your long-term goals? Do you see politics as a career or a stepping stone to other endeavors? What's your exit strategy? The Starting Point, Not the Destination Contemplating these eight points is just the starting point; running for public office is a long, complicated journey that will demand constant adjustment and reevaluation. However, these considerations can give you a solid foundation for making an informed decision. Running for public office is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. If you are considering this path, taking the time to reflect on these eight considerations will provide valuable insights and prepare you for the challenges and rewards that lie ahead.
By Kim Anthony
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September 4, 2023
Chris Smalls has emerged as an unlikely hero, not just for the workers of Amazon but for the labor movement across America and beyond. He has become the President of the Amazon Labor Union, catalyzing significant shifts in a company known for its tough anti-union stance. His rise from a rank-and-file worker to a labor organizer has lessons in leadership that transcend industrial contexts and have universal applicability. 1. Embrace the Unexpected Chris’s journey began when he unexpectedly walked out of Amazon three years ago. His decision, driven by a deep-rooted sense of justice, has today turned him into a symbol of hope for many. Leaders often need to embrace the unexpected and leverage it for positive change. 2. Prioritize the Immediate Task Despite the allure of media attention and numerous emails, Chris has remained focused on getting a contract for JFK workers. Leaders should always keep their eyes on the immediate goal, ensuring it aligns with the broader mission. 3. Share the Reality Chris paints a vivid picture of the demanding work environment at Amazon. By sharing his personal experience, he humanizes the struggle and educates the masses on the realities many face. Great leaders tell stories that connect and mobilize. 4. Find Inspiration from Setbacks The failed unionization attempt in Bessemer, Alabama, became a source of inspiration for Chris. Leaders often encounter setbacks; the key is to learn from them and use them as fuel to keep going. 5. Build Solidarity Beyond Borders Chris's commitment isn't limited to America. He has connected with workers from London to Cuba, demonstrating the universality of the labor struggle. Leaders must think globally, fostering international collaborations and solidarity. 6. Stay Motivated While challenges abound, Chris is driven by the possibility of causing billionaires to rethink their decisions. He's inspired by stories of grassroots movements and international solidarity. Leaders must find their unique source of motivation to persist. 7. Learn Continuously From understanding the deep divides in organizational alignments to the intricacies of American labor politics, Chris's journey is one of continuous learning. Effective leaders are always students, open to gaining new insights and understanding. 8. Foster International Solidarity Chris's efforts have sparked interest from other organizations and countries. By fostering international collaboration, leaders can amplify their cause and create a more substantial impact. 9. Celebrate Victories but Look Ahead The Amazon Labor Union's election win was monumental, but Chris understands that it's the beginning. Leaders should celebrate victories but must always focus on the next milestone. 10. Hold Entities Accountable Whether it's Amazon or established unions, Chris stresses the importance of accountability. Leaders must consistently challenge existing systems, pushing them towards greater fairness and justice. In conclusion, Chris Smalls's leadership journey is an inspiration to many. His commitment, resilience, and vision offer lessons not just for labor organizers but for leaders across sectors. As the labor landscape continues to evolve, it's voices like Chris's that will guide the way, urging us all to build a more equitable and just world.
By Kim Anthony
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September 3, 2023
Entrepreneurship is a journey paved with challenges, risks, and opportunities. In the world of business, there are few voices as authoritative and inspiring as Daymond John's. As a successful entrepreneur, investor, and star of the hit TV show "Shark Tank," Daymond John has shared his wisdom and insights that have become valuable lessons for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. Here are eight lessons we've learned from Daymond John about entrepreneurship: 1. Start Small, Think Big Daymond's journey began with a modest investment of $40, sewing homemade hats in his mother's living room. This humble start taught him the importance of taking the first step, even when resources are limited. He emphasizes the need to think big but start small, leveraging what you have to make gradual progress toward your goals. 2. Solve Real Problems One of Daymond's key principles is to identify problems that need solving. Successful businesses often emerge from addressing genuine pain points faced by consumers. By focusing on solutions that add value to people's lives, entrepreneurs can tap into sustainable demand and build a loyal customer base. 3. The Power of Branding Daymond is a firm believer in the power of branding. He turned FUBU (For Us, By Us) into a global fashion brand by connecting with the hip-hop community and championing inclusivity. His lesson? Build a brand that tells a story and resonates with your target audience. A strong brand creates emotional connections and sets you apart in a competitive market. 4. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity Failure is often seen as a setback, but Daymond sees it as a stepping stone to success. He acknowledges his past failures and emphasizes that learning from mistakes is crucial for growth. Every failure provides valuable lessons that can guide future decisions and strategies. 5. Stay Hungry and Persistent Daymond's journey to success was far from smooth, marked by rejections and obstacles. His story teaches us the importance of perseverance and hunger. Entrepreneurship requires a relentless drive to overcome challenges, adapt to change, and keep pushing forward, even when the odds seem stacked against you. 6. Know Your Numbers Inside and Out Numbers are the language of business, and Daymond stresses the significance of understanding your financials. Whether it's profit margins, costs, or revenue projections, a deep understanding of your financial metrics empowers you to make informed decisions and negotiate effectively. 7. Build Relationships and Networks In the business world, relationships matter. Daymond's success was shaped by his ability to build strong connections with mentors, partners, and customers. He advises entrepreneurs to network, seek mentorship, and nurture relationships as they can provide valuable guidance, opportunities, and support. Daymond John's journey from a small start to a globally recognized entrepreneur is a testament to his expertise and insights into the world of business. These eight lessons serve as a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs, guiding them through the challenges and triumphs of building and growing a successful enterprise. By embracing these principles, entrepreneurs can navigate their own paths to success with confidence and determination.
By Kim Anthony
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September 2, 2023
If you're venturing into the realm of life coaching, congratulations! This rewarding career offers a unique opportunity to facilitate meaningful change in people's lives. However, the journey to becoming a respected life coach is paved with challenges and pitfalls. Avoid being an amateur in the game by steering clear of these common mistakes. 1. Overpromising and Underdelivering The Mistake: Making grandiose promises like "I'll change your life in one week!" What to Do: Be realistic about the outcomes you can facilitate. Give clients a balanced perspective on what they can achieve and how you will support them. 2. Lacking Proper Credentials The Mistake: Assuming reading a few self-help books or having a social work background makes you qualified. What to Do: Look for accredited courses and certificates in life coaching. Keep learning and stay updated on relevant techniques and research. 3. Relying on Clichés The Mistake: Offering platitudes like "Just believe in yourself" as solutions. What to Do: Use proven strategies, techniques, and exercises to guide your client through their challenges. 4. Not Setting Boundaries The Mistake: Taking calls at all hours or giving advice on topics you're not qualified for. What to Do: Clearly define your working hours and the scope of your coaching. If a client needs specialized help, refer them to the appropriate professional. 5. Overlooking the Importance of Active Listening The Mistake: Dominating the conversation instead of letting the client express themselves. What to Do: Use active listening techniques. The more you understand the client, the better you can tailor your coaching to their needs. 6. One-Size-Fits-All Approach The Mistake: Using the same techniques and strategies for all clients. What to Do: Individualize your coaching approach to suit each client's specific needs, goals, and circumstances. 7. Ignoring the Follow-up The Mistake: Not checking in on a client after a session or not tracking their progress. What to Do: Keep detailed records of each session and set up follow-up meetings to discuss progress and modify strategies as necessary. 8. Neglecting Self-Care The Mistake: Focusing so much on clients that you forget to take care of yourself. What to Do: Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Allocate time for self-care so you can better serve your clients. 9. Giving Advice Instead of Facilitating The Mistake: Telling clients exactly what to do instead of helping them find their own solutions. What to Do: Your role is to guide, not dictate. Empower your clients to make their own decisions and facilitate their own growth. 10. Lack of Professionalism The Mistake: Casual attire, tardiness, or using slang and colloquial language that may not resonate with all clients. What to Do: Maintain a high level of professionalism in your attire, language, and punctuality to gain and keep the trust of your clients. By avoiding these common mistakes and taking proactiv e steps to counteract them, you'll be well on your way to transitioning from an amateur to a highly respected professional in the field of life coaching.
By Kim Anthony
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September 2, 2023
Under-earning, often a result of undervaluing one’s worth, skills, or time, can be a debilitating habit that stands in the way of achieving one's financial and personal potential. Breaking free from this cycle can lead to increased self-esteem, financial freedom, and a more fulfilling professional journey. Here are 11 strategies to address and conquer the habit of habitual under-earning: 1. Self-Awareness is the First Step Before addressing under-earning, one must recognize it. Monitor your income, track your working hours, and compare your earnings with industry standards. Acknowledging the disparity is essential. 2. Set Clear Financial Goals Establish clear, measurable financial goals. Whether it’s a desired annual income, a target hourly rate, or a specific project fee, having a number in mind provides a tangible target. 3. Know Your Worth Research market rates for your profession, skills, and experience. Use platforms like Glassdoor, Payscale, or industry-specific databases to get a clear picture of what you should be earning. 4. Invest in Continuous Learning Boost your earning potential by staying updated in your field. Attend workshops, get certifications, and consistently upgrade your skills. The more valuable your skillset, the higher your earning potential. 5. Practice Negotiation Many under-earners shy away from negotiating salaries or fees. Start practicing negotiation skills in low-stakes situations and gradually apply them in professional scenarios. 6. Avoid Overcommitting Learn to say "no." Taking on too many tasks, especially if they are underpaid, can keep you trapped in the under-earning cycle. Prioritize opportunities that align with your worth. 7. Surround Yourself with Support Connect with mentors, join professional groups, or find peers who understand your worth and encourage you to break out of under-earning habits. Their support can be invaluable. 8. Diversify Income Streams Look for alternative income streams. Freelance work, consulting, or even passive income opportunities can supplement your primary income and elevate your overall earnings. 9. Reframe Your Mindset Under-earning often stems from deep-seated beliefs about money and self-worth. Consider professional coaching or counseling to address and transform any limiting beliefs. 10. Review and Adjust Regularly Periodically review your earnings and set new benchmarks. As you grow in your profession and gain more experience, your worth increases. Adjust your rates and salary expectations accordingly. 11. Celebrate Small Wins Every time you successfully negotiate a better rate, land a higher-paying client, or reach a financial goal, celebrate it. This positive reinforcement will motivate you to continue breaking the under-earning cycle. In conclusion, breaking the habit of habitual under-earning requires a combination of self-awareness, proactive efforts, and continuous self-improvement. With dedication and the right strategies, it’s entirely possible to redefine your professional worth and achieve the financial success you deserve.
By Kim Anthony
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September 1, 2023
African-American men, like all men, deserve to live long, healthy lives. However, due to specific social, economic, and genetic factors, some health challenges disproportionately affect this group. By addressing these challenges head-on, African-American men can access and sustain optimal health. Here are ten actionable steps to consider: Prioritize Regular Medical Check-ups Regular screenings can catch diseases like hypertension, diabetes, or prostate cancer early. African-American men have higher rates of these conditions, making early detection critical. Engage in Physical Activity The CDC suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, combined with muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week. Physical activity can help manage weight, reduce stress, and combat chronic diseases. Adopt a Balanced Diet Incorporate whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive salt can combat obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Manage Stress Chronic stress can lead to a range of health issues. Find coping mechanisms that work, whether it's meditation, reading, hobbies, or counseling. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking Excessive alcohol can lead to liver problems, certain cancers, and high blood pressure. Smoking, meanwhile, is linked to many types of cancer, respiratory diseases, and heart diseases. Stay Informed on Prostate Health Prostate cancer is more prevalent and more aggressive in African-American men. Regular screenings and being informed about the risks can lead to early detection. Maintain Mental Health Addressing mental health is just as crucial as physical health. Therapy, counseling, or simply talking to someone can make a big difference. Join a Support Group or Network Having a support group or being part of a community that shares similar experiences can be therapeutic. It provides an avenue to share concerns, get advice, or just feel understood. Be Educated About Medication African-Americans sometimes respond differently to medications than other racial groups, particularly for diseases like hypertension. Engage with a healthcare professional about the right medications and dosages. Advocate for Health Equality Systemic disparities exist that can limit access to quality healthcare for African-Americans. Advocacy can help bridge the gap, ensuring that everyone, regardless of race, has the opportunity to achieve optimal health. Achieving and sustaining excellent health requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both individual and systemic challenges. For African-American men, recognizing and actively addressing these unique challenges can pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
By Kim Anthony
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September 1, 2023
For many people, travel can be an important part of personal development. When we stay in our own comfort zone, in contexts we’ve always known, it’s easy to not change much on the inside.
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Breaking News
By Kim Anthony
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December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
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November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
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November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
Feature Stories & Profiles
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
Corporate Social Responsibility
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
Best Practices
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
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By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
By Kim Anthony
•
September 4, 2023
The prospect of running for public office is both exciting and daunting. It offers an opportunity to make impactful changes, but it also exposes you to scrutiny and requires tremendous commitment. If you're contemplating throwing your hat into the political ring, it's essential to think through multiple factors before making your decision. Here are eight critical considerations to mull over: 1. Personal Readiness Entering politics is a life-altering choice, not just for you but also for your family and close ones. The demands on your time, privacy, and emotional well-being can be overwhelming. Questions to Ask : Are you emotionally, mentally, and physically prepared for the challenges? Have you discussed this with your family, and are they supportive? 2. Core Beliefs and Values Politics is an arena of competing interests and ideologies. Having a clear understanding of your core beliefs and values will guide your political journey. Questions to Ask : What causes or issues are most important to you? Are your views aligned with the electorate you wish to serve? 3. Skill Set and Qualifications Being in public office requires a diverse skill set, including but not limited to leadership, public speaking, and policy analysis. Questions to Ask : Do you possess the skills needed to succeed in office? If not, are you willing to learn or surround yourself with experts who do? 4. Financial Considerations Campaigning can be expensive, and public office may not offer the financial rewards that other careers do. Questions to Ask : Do you have the financial resources to run a campaign and sustain yourself in office? Are you ready to disclose your financial status, as is often required? 5. Electability and Public Perception Popularity and public perception play a crucial role in politics. Your history, conduct, and even appearance are often subject to public scrutiny. Questions to Ask : How are you perceived by the community? Do you have any skeletons in the closet that could become public and harm your candidacy? 6. Team and Support System A successful campaign requires a dedicated team for various functions: strategizing, fundraising, public relations, and more. Questions to Ask : Do you have a trustworthy team or know how to assemble one? Do you have mentors or advisors in the political arena? 7. Regulatory and Legal Requirements Different positions have different eligibility criteria, filing requirements, and regulations. Questions to Ask : Are you familiar with the legal requirements for the position you are considering? Do you meet the eligibility criteria? 8. Long-Term Goals and Exit Strategy Public office is often not a lifetime appointment. Whether you serve one term or multiple, you will eventually move on. Questions to Ask : What are your long-term goals? Do you see politics as a career or a stepping stone to other endeavors? What's your exit strategy? The Starting Point, Not the Destination Contemplating these eight points is just the starting point; running for public office is a long, complicated journey that will demand constant adjustment and reevaluation. However, these considerations can give you a solid foundation for making an informed decision. Running for public office is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. If you are considering this path, taking the time to reflect on these eight considerations will provide valuable insights and prepare you for the challenges and rewards that lie ahead.
By Kim Anthony
•
September 4, 2023
Chris Smalls has emerged as an unlikely hero, not just for the workers of Amazon but for the labor movement across America and beyond. He has become the President of the Amazon Labor Union, catalyzing significant shifts in a company known for its tough anti-union stance. His rise from a rank-and-file worker to a labor organizer has lessons in leadership that transcend industrial contexts and have universal applicability. 1. Embrace the Unexpected Chris’s journey began when he unexpectedly walked out of Amazon three years ago. His decision, driven by a deep-rooted sense of justice, has today turned him into a symbol of hope for many. Leaders often need to embrace the unexpected and leverage it for positive change. 2. Prioritize the Immediate Task Despite the allure of media attention and numerous emails, Chris has remained focused on getting a contract for JFK workers. Leaders should always keep their eyes on the immediate goal, ensuring it aligns with the broader mission. 3. Share the Reality Chris paints a vivid picture of the demanding work environment at Amazon. By sharing his personal experience, he humanizes the struggle and educates the masses on the realities many face. Great leaders tell stories that connect and mobilize. 4. Find Inspiration from Setbacks The failed unionization attempt in Bessemer, Alabama, became a source of inspiration for Chris. Leaders often encounter setbacks; the key is to learn from them and use them as fuel to keep going. 5. Build Solidarity Beyond Borders Chris's commitment isn't limited to America. He has connected with workers from London to Cuba, demonstrating the universality of the labor struggle. Leaders must think globally, fostering international collaborations and solidarity. 6. Stay Motivated While challenges abound, Chris is driven by the possibility of causing billionaires to rethink their decisions. He's inspired by stories of grassroots movements and international solidarity. Leaders must find their unique source of motivation to persist. 7. Learn Continuously From understanding the deep divides in organizational alignments to the intricacies of American labor politics, Chris's journey is one of continuous learning. Effective leaders are always students, open to gaining new insights and understanding. 8. Foster International Solidarity Chris's efforts have sparked interest from other organizations and countries. By fostering international collaboration, leaders can amplify their cause and create a more substantial impact. 9. Celebrate Victories but Look Ahead The Amazon Labor Union's election win was monumental, but Chris understands that it's the beginning. Leaders should celebrate victories but must always focus on the next milestone. 10. Hold Entities Accountable Whether it's Amazon or established unions, Chris stresses the importance of accountability. Leaders must consistently challenge existing systems, pushing them towards greater fairness and justice. In conclusion, Chris Smalls's leadership journey is an inspiration to many. His commitment, resilience, and vision offer lessons not just for labor organizers but for leaders across sectors. As the labor landscape continues to evolve, it's voices like Chris's that will guide the way, urging us all to build a more equitable and just world.
By Kim Anthony
•
September 3, 2023
Entrepreneurship is a journey paved with challenges, risks, and opportunities. In the world of business, there are few voices as authoritative and inspiring as Daymond John's. As a successful entrepreneur, investor, and star of the hit TV show "Shark Tank," Daymond John has shared his wisdom and insights that have become valuable lessons for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. Here are eight lessons we've learned from Daymond John about entrepreneurship: 1. Start Small, Think Big Daymond's journey began with a modest investment of $40, sewing homemade hats in his mother's living room. This humble start taught him the importance of taking the first step, even when resources are limited. He emphasizes the need to think big but start small, leveraging what you have to make gradual progress toward your goals. 2. Solve Real Problems One of Daymond's key principles is to identify problems that need solving. Successful businesses often emerge from addressing genuine pain points faced by consumers. By focusing on solutions that add value to people's lives, entrepreneurs can tap into sustainable demand and build a loyal customer base. 3. The Power of Branding Daymond is a firm believer in the power of branding. He turned FUBU (For Us, By Us) into a global fashion brand by connecting with the hip-hop community and championing inclusivity. His lesson? Build a brand that tells a story and resonates with your target audience. A strong brand creates emotional connections and sets you apart in a competitive market. 4. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity Failure is often seen as a setback, but Daymond sees it as a stepping stone to success. He acknowledges his past failures and emphasizes that learning from mistakes is crucial for growth. Every failure provides valuable lessons that can guide future decisions and strategies. 5. Stay Hungry and Persistent Daymond's journey to success was far from smooth, marked by rejections and obstacles. His story teaches us the importance of perseverance and hunger. Entrepreneurship requires a relentless drive to overcome challenges, adapt to change, and keep pushing forward, even when the odds seem stacked against you. 6. Know Your Numbers Inside and Out Numbers are the language of business, and Daymond stresses the significance of understanding your financials. Whether it's profit margins, costs, or revenue projections, a deep understanding of your financial metrics empowers you to make informed decisions and negotiate effectively. 7. Build Relationships and Networks In the business world, relationships matter. Daymond's success was shaped by his ability to build strong connections with mentors, partners, and customers. He advises entrepreneurs to network, seek mentorship, and nurture relationships as they can provide valuable guidance, opportunities, and support. Daymond John's journey from a small start to a globally recognized entrepreneur is a testament to his expertise and insights into the world of business. These eight lessons serve as a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs, guiding them through the challenges and triumphs of building and growing a successful enterprise. By embracing these principles, entrepreneurs can navigate their own paths to success with confidence and determination.
By Kim Anthony
•
September 2, 2023
If you're venturing into the realm of life coaching, congratulations! This rewarding career offers a unique opportunity to facilitate meaningful change in people's lives. However, the journey to becoming a respected life coach is paved with challenges and pitfalls. Avoid being an amateur in the game by steering clear of these common mistakes. 1. Overpromising and Underdelivering The Mistake: Making grandiose promises like "I'll change your life in one week!" What to Do: Be realistic about the outcomes you can facilitate. Give clients a balanced perspective on what they can achieve and how you will support them. 2. Lacking Proper Credentials The Mistake: Assuming reading a few self-help books or having a social work background makes you qualified. What to Do: Look for accredited courses and certificates in life coaching. Keep learning and stay updated on relevant techniques and research. 3. Relying on Clichés The Mistake: Offering platitudes like "Just believe in yourself" as solutions. What to Do: Use proven strategies, techniques, and exercises to guide your client through their challenges. 4. Not Setting Boundaries The Mistake: Taking calls at all hours or giving advice on topics you're not qualified for. What to Do: Clearly define your working hours and the scope of your coaching. If a client needs specialized help, refer them to the appropriate professional. 5. Overlooking the Importance of Active Listening The Mistake: Dominating the conversation instead of letting the client express themselves. What to Do: Use active listening techniques. The more you understand the client, the better you can tailor your coaching to their needs. 6. One-Size-Fits-All Approach The Mistake: Using the same techniques and strategies for all clients. What to Do: Individualize your coaching approach to suit each client's specific needs, goals, and circumstances. 7. Ignoring the Follow-up The Mistake: Not checking in on a client after a session or not tracking their progress. What to Do: Keep detailed records of each session and set up follow-up meetings to discuss progress and modify strategies as necessary. 8. Neglecting Self-Care The Mistake: Focusing so much on clients that you forget to take care of yourself. What to Do: Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Allocate time for self-care so you can better serve your clients. 9. Giving Advice Instead of Facilitating The Mistake: Telling clients exactly what to do instead of helping them find their own solutions. What to Do: Your role is to guide, not dictate. Empower your clients to make their own decisions and facilitate their own growth. 10. Lack of Professionalism The Mistake: Casual attire, tardiness, or using slang and colloquial language that may not resonate with all clients. What to Do: Maintain a high level of professionalism in your attire, language, and punctuality to gain and keep the trust of your clients. By avoiding these common mistakes and taking proactiv e steps to counteract them, you'll be well on your way to transitioning from an amateur to a highly respected professional in the field of life coaching.
By Kim Anthony
•
September 2, 2023
Under-earning, often a result of undervaluing one’s worth, skills, or time, can be a debilitating habit that stands in the way of achieving one's financial and personal potential. Breaking free from this cycle can lead to increased self-esteem, financial freedom, and a more fulfilling professional journey. Here are 11 strategies to address and conquer the habit of habitual under-earning: 1. Self-Awareness is the First Step Before addressing under-earning, one must recognize it. Monitor your income, track your working hours, and compare your earnings with industry standards. Acknowledging the disparity is essential. 2. Set Clear Financial Goals Establish clear, measurable financial goals. Whether it’s a desired annual income, a target hourly rate, or a specific project fee, having a number in mind provides a tangible target. 3. Know Your Worth Research market rates for your profession, skills, and experience. Use platforms like Glassdoor, Payscale, or industry-specific databases to get a clear picture of what you should be earning. 4. Invest in Continuous Learning Boost your earning potential by staying updated in your field. Attend workshops, get certifications, and consistently upgrade your skills. The more valuable your skillset, the higher your earning potential. 5. Practice Negotiation Many under-earners shy away from negotiating salaries or fees. Start practicing negotiation skills in low-stakes situations and gradually apply them in professional scenarios. 6. Avoid Overcommitting Learn to say "no." Taking on too many tasks, especially if they are underpaid, can keep you trapped in the under-earning cycle. Prioritize opportunities that align with your worth. 7. Surround Yourself with Support Connect with mentors, join professional groups, or find peers who understand your worth and encourage you to break out of under-earning habits. Their support can be invaluable. 8. Diversify Income Streams Look for alternative income streams. Freelance work, consulting, or even passive income opportunities can supplement your primary income and elevate your overall earnings. 9. Reframe Your Mindset Under-earning often stems from deep-seated beliefs about money and self-worth. Consider professional coaching or counseling to address and transform any limiting beliefs. 10. Review and Adjust Regularly Periodically review your earnings and set new benchmarks. As you grow in your profession and gain more experience, your worth increases. Adjust your rates and salary expectations accordingly. 11. Celebrate Small Wins Every time you successfully negotiate a better rate, land a higher-paying client, or reach a financial goal, celebrate it. This positive reinforcement will motivate you to continue breaking the under-earning cycle. In conclusion, breaking the habit of habitual under-earning requires a combination of self-awareness, proactive efforts, and continuous self-improvement. With dedication and the right strategies, it’s entirely possible to redefine your professional worth and achieve the financial success you deserve.
By Kim Anthony
•
September 1, 2023
African-American men, like all men, deserve to live long, healthy lives. However, due to specific social, economic, and genetic factors, some health challenges disproportionately affect this group. By addressing these challenges head-on, African-American men can access and sustain optimal health. Here are ten actionable steps to consider: Prioritize Regular Medical Check-ups Regular screenings can catch diseases like hypertension, diabetes, or prostate cancer early. African-American men have higher rates of these conditions, making early detection critical. Engage in Physical Activity The CDC suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, combined with muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week. Physical activity can help manage weight, reduce stress, and combat chronic diseases. Adopt a Balanced Diet Incorporate whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive salt can combat obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Manage Stress Chronic stress can lead to a range of health issues. Find coping mechanisms that work, whether it's meditation, reading, hobbies, or counseling. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking Excessive alcohol can lead to liver problems, certain cancers, and high blood pressure. Smoking, meanwhile, is linked to many types of cancer, respiratory diseases, and heart diseases. Stay Informed on Prostate Health Prostate cancer is more prevalent and more aggressive in African-American men. Regular screenings and being informed about the risks can lead to early detection. Maintain Mental Health Addressing mental health is just as crucial as physical health. Therapy, counseling, or simply talking to someone can make a big difference. Join a Support Group or Network Having a support group or being part of a community that shares similar experiences can be therapeutic. It provides an avenue to share concerns, get advice, or just feel understood. Be Educated About Medication African-Americans sometimes respond differently to medications than other racial groups, particularly for diseases like hypertension. Engage with a healthcare professional about the right medications and dosages. Advocate for Health Equality Systemic disparities exist that can limit access to quality healthcare for African-Americans. Advocacy can help bridge the gap, ensuring that everyone, regardless of race, has the opportunity to achieve optimal health. Achieving and sustaining excellent health requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both individual and systemic challenges. For African-American men, recognizing and actively addressing these unique challenges can pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
By Kim Anthony
•
September 1, 2023
For many people, travel can be an important part of personal development. When we stay in our own comfort zone, in contexts we’ve always known, it’s easy to not change much on the inside.
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Breaking News
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
Feature Stories & Profiles
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
Corporate Social Responsibility
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
Best Practices
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
•
November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
Trending Stories
By Kim Anthony
•
December 26, 2025
Humble Lukanga’s Journey of Stewardship, Integrity, and Care Before he became a trusted financial advisor to athletes, entertainers, and cultural leaders, Lameck “Humble” Lukanga was a boy growing up in a small Ugandan village—one shaped by uncertainty, loss, and resilience. Today, Lukanga quietly advises some of the most visible figures in sports and entertainment, helping them navigate sudden wealth, complex decisions, and generational responsibility. But the moment that brought his name into public view revealed something far deeper than financial skill—it revealed character. While overseeing the finances of NBA player Lonzo Ball, Lukanga discovered that more than $1.5 million was missing from Ball’s personal and business accounts. Rather than look away, he spoke up. For Lukanga, it was never about exposure—it was about protection. “Without Humble, I don’t know where I’d be right now,” Ball later shared. “I’d be in a very bad situation.” Where Wisdom Begins Lukanga’s calm presence and thoughtful counsel are rooted in lived experience. He was born in Uganda during a period of political unrest. His family endured profound loss—some relatives were killed, others died from illness and instability. Fear was part of daily life. When Lukanga was 11, his family was granted political asylum in the United States. They left Uganda quietly one night, arriving in Denver, Colorado, with little more than hope. His parents called it winning the “freedom lottery,” though freedom came with hardship. His mother worked as a maid. His father cleaned restaurants late into the night. Lukanga remembers discovering school lunches, school buses, and library books—and also learning early what responsibility looked like. Growing Up Fast In high school, Lukanga’s mother suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. His father became her caregiver while working longer hours. Lukanga helped where he could, often running on just a few hours of sleep. School became a refuge. Teachers noticed his determination and his dreams of building something meaningful. While attending the University of New Mexico, he began selling CDs and T-shirts out of his trunk—learning business by doing. Then loss struck again. His mother passed away. Soon after, his father died of a heart attack while traveling to Uganda to bury her. In his early twenties, Lukanga found himself alone—but not without purpose. More Than Money By age 23, Lukanga had earned his MBA. Yet he never saw money as just numbers. To him, spending habits reflect values, wounds, and priorities. This belief shaped his approach to advising clients—many of whom are young, newly successful, and navigating wealth for the first time. He often describes himself not just as a financial advisor, but as a steward—someone who helps clients slow down, stay grounded, and think beyond the moment. “You might not like me in your 20s,” he tells them with a smile. “But in your 30s, you’ll thank me.” Former NFL star Arian Foster remembers one of Lukanga’s earliest lessons, when Foster had little money and even less margin for mistakes. “He told me I couldn’t afford Applebee’s,” Foster laughed. “And he was right.” Trust Built on Shared Experience Today, Lukanga advises about 40 clients and manages more than $120 million in assets. His clients include professional athletes, entertainers, and creatives—many of whom see themselves in his story. “You go from being a kid to a multimillion-dollar entity overnight,” Lukanga says. “Everyone has advice. Very few people have wisdom.” That wisdom, clients say, comes from his journey. From surviving scarcity to stewarding abundance, Lukanga understands both worlds. He often says that when one person rises, an entire family rises with them—and that responsibility deserves care. A Life of Giving Back Lukanga dedicates each day to someone who is no longer here, often thinking of his parents. “Some of my greatest peace,” he says, “comes from knowing that I am my father’s wildest dream.” He volunteers regularly in Uganda, mentors young people in underserved communities, and speaks to students who may not yet see what’s possible for themselves. When invited to deliver the University of New Mexico’s commencement address, Lukanga offered a simple charge: “Leave your fingerprint on the heart of the world. Go make history.” From a remote Ugandan village to America’s most influential financial rooms, Humble Lukanga’s story is not just about success—it’s about stewardship, integrity, and love. And through his work, he continues to prove that wealth, when guided by wisdom, can heal families, protect futures, and change generations.
By Kim Anthony
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November 24, 2025
AStory of Representation, Innovation, and the Next Chapter of Urban Economic Power Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE) has announced a powerful new chapter in its legacy of economic mobility and community-centered entrepreneurship: Alexia Grevious Henderson has been named President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, effective immediately. Her appointment signals more than a promotion — it represents a generational shift. It affirms the rise of a new class of visionary leaders who understand that wealth-building, community uplift, and strategic innovation must move together. A Leader Rooted in Excellence — and Built for Impact Since joining MJE in 2017 as Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications, Henderson has steadily advanced, proving herself to be a builder, a strategist, and a trusted architect of the MJE brand. Most recently, as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Marketing, she led: High-level corporate partnerships Fulfillment of national and global brand contracts Integrated marketing and communications efforts that expanded MJE’s influence and reach Under her leadership, MJE strengthened its position as one of the most respected vehicles for community-driven economic growth. Magic Johnson himself affirmed her brilliance: “Alexia is one of the brightest young minds in business today. Her leadership and creativity have elevated our brand, our partnerships, and our mission.” Her track record reflects what the Urban Enterprise Framework celebrates: excellence, service, access, and the advancement of historically underestimated communities. A Career Anchored in Purpose Before MJE, Henderson gained experience with the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work and reputation have earned her national recognition, including being named: Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch” Beyond corporate success, she serves on the board of A.Bevy, an arts and education nonprofit helping young adults find clarity in their passion, path, and purpose — embodying the Urban Enterprise principle that leadership is service. A Powerful Representation Moment for Urban America The Urban Enterprise Framework recognizes milestones like this as more than professional wins — they are community wins. Henderson’s presidency represents: A breakthrough for women in the C-suite leadership A breakthrough for Black leaders shaping national economic strategy A breakthrough for the next generation for urban innovators and changemakers Rooted in Community, Positioned for Global Impact A native of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Henderson is a graduate of Clemson University and holds an MBA from Pepperdine University. She now resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron — the heart of a city where entrepreneurship, entertainment, and community-driven innovation intersect. About Magic Johnson Enterprises Founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, MJE is a diversified investment company committed to lifting communities through strategic partnerships across entertainment, sports, technology, real estate, and more. Its work aligns deeply with the Urban Enterprise Framework: building access, expanding ownership, and driving economic mobility in urban and underestimated communities.
By Kim Anthony
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November 17, 2025
In the tapestry of American entrepreneurship, one thread has been tugged and twisted for centuries. It’s the thread of access—or rather, the lack of it. Access to capital. Access to ownership. Access to the kind of financial tools that build legacies and create wealth that lasts. For Black entrepreneurs, this thread remains stubbornly unfinished. Not because of a lack of brilliance, hustle, or vision, but because the capital necessary to scale dreams has too often been withheld. Into that longstanding gap steps the Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF)—an organization that is more than a lender. It is a force. A movement. A quiet revolution wrapped in the conviction that Black economic power isn’t optional. It’s essential. BCIF isn’t simply distributing money. It is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for Black entrepreneurs in Southern California. It is challenging the old assumptions about who gets funded, who gets to grow, and who gets to build the kind of wealth that outlives them. A Revolution Rooted in Economic Empowerment When you encounter BCIF for the first time, you feel it—an energy, a heartbeat, a purpose. Their declaration comes with clarity and courage: “Economic empowerment is our revolution.” It isn’t rhetoric. It’s strategy. BCIF understands what many overlook: When Black entrepreneurs thrive, everything around them transforms. Families stabilize. Neighborhoods shift. Wealth accumulates. Opportunities multiply. And a new kind of freedom emerges—one built not on survival but on ownership, agency, and possibility. This isn’t transactional lending. This is long-term social change. This is equity in motion. This is self-determination at scale. A Mission Built for Liberation BCIF operates as a community-rooted 501(c)(3) with a mission that is both practical and visionary. They provide interest-free microloans to Black-owned businesses that are committed to building economic power in their own communities. Their work plants seeds—assets, living-wage jobs, generational wealth—that grow into something far larger than a single enterprise. Their vision reaches further: to help close the racial wealth gap by supporting the entrepreneurs who already stand at the forefront of Black economic advancement. The innovators. The creatives. The problem-solvers. The community builders. They have the ideas, the grit, and the drive—but too often, not the fair and accessible capital to match. BCIF’s goal is as ambitious as it is necessary: to become the leading microloan provider for Black-owned businesses in Southern California and to fund 1,000 thriving enterprises by 2040. It’s more than a benchmark. It’s a blueprint—a long-term strategy to transform the economic landscape of a region. What Sets BCIF Apart In a financial world cluttered with red tape and barriers, BCIF stands in a different posture. Their funding model is rooted in clarity, trust, and community. Their loans carry no interest—none. No fees. No predatory terms disguised as support. Just capital that stays exactly where it belongs: circulating inside Black businesses and Black communities. Their focus is intentional. While many organizations speak broadly about “diverse markets,” BCIF centers the Black community unapologetically. Because closing the racial wealth gap requires direct investment—not generic, not diluted, not symbolic. And unlike traditional lenders, BCIF refuses to create hoops meant to disqualify. There is no punishing jargon, no unnecessarily restrictive approval processes. Their model is transparent and accessible, designed to empower instead of exclude. Every loan comes back into the fund, where it becomes fuel for the next entrepreneur. One business’s repayment becomes another business’s opportunity. It is the purest expression of cooperative economics—each success feeding the next, each win lifting the community higher. Why BCIF Matters—For Business, Community, and Justice It’s simple to say, “We support Black businesses.” It’s much harder to build systems that make that support real. BCIF understands that business ownership is one of the most powerful pathways to generational wealth. Ownership changes everything—income, options, legacy. Black-owned businesses also create the kind of jobs that stabilize communities and expand opportunity from the inside out. They also understand that the racial wealth gap is not a coincidence. It is structural. Deliberate. Historical. And so the solution must be structural too. BCIF doesn’t offer charity—they offer infrastructure: accessible capital, community investment, and a circular system that sustains itself. Their model ensures that every loan becomes the seed of another. Entrepreneurs support each other without ever having to meet. It is wealth-building as community practice. How the Model Comes Alive BCIF’s approach to lending is as human-centered as their mission. Black entrepreneurs across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange counties can apply at any time throughout the year. The screening is thorough but fair, typically taking about four weeks, with approved businesses receiving capital within two. Most of the money donated—about three-quarters—flows directly into loans. The remainder supports operations, ensuring the fund is sustainable long term. There is no profit motive behind these decisions. Only impact. Your Vision and BCIF’s Vision Intertwine If you care about thriving Black communities… If you believe in entrepreneurs who create opportunity where there was none… If you believe economic justice is part of social justice… Then your values are already reflected in BCIF’s work. And there are powerful ways to stand with the movement. You can partner—bringing BCIF into your events, networks, and business circles. You can refer—connecting Black-owned businesses that simply need a fair chance. Or you can amplify—sharing BCIF’s message, because visibility is power and stories ignite movements. A Call to Step Into the Revolution Revolutions don’t begin in crowds. They begin in convictions—one person choosing to act, then another, and another. BCIF is constructing a new economic reality, and you are invited to help shape it. If you’re a Black entrepreneur in Southern California, you can apply for an interest-free loan. If you believe in economic justice, you can invest in the fund that invests in your community. If you want Black economic power to rise, you can share this mission with those who need to hear it. Every voice matters. Every connection matters. Every resource matters. The Final Word BCIF isn’t simply offering loans—they are shifting power. They are challenging the narrative of who gets funded, who gets trusted, who gets to build wealth, and who gets to shape the future. They are proving that wealth creation is not a luxury or an afterthought. It is a pathway to justice. A pathway to freedom. A pathway to a better tomorrow. The Black Cooperative Impact Fund is more than a financial institution. It is a catalyst. A movement. A reclaiming of possibility. And the story is still being written.
By Kim Anthony
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September 4, 2023
The prospect of running for public office is both exciting and daunting. It offers an opportunity to make impactful changes, but it also exposes you to scrutiny and requires tremendous commitment. If you're contemplating throwing your hat into the political ring, it's essential to think through multiple factors before making your decision. Here are eight critical considerations to mull over: 1. Personal Readiness Entering politics is a life-altering choice, not just for you but also for your family and close ones. The demands on your time, privacy, and emotional well-being can be overwhelming. Questions to Ask : Are you emotionally, mentally, and physically prepared for the challenges? Have you discussed this with your family, and are they supportive? 2. Core Beliefs and Values Politics is an arena of competing interests and ideologies. Having a clear understanding of your core beliefs and values will guide your political journey. Questions to Ask : What causes or issues are most important to you? Are your views aligned with the electorate you wish to serve? 3. Skill Set and Qualifications Being in public office requires a diverse skill set, including but not limited to leadership, public speaking, and policy analysis. Questions to Ask : Do you possess the skills needed to succeed in office? If not, are you willing to learn or surround yourself with experts who do? 4. Financial Considerations Campaigning can be expensive, and public office may not offer the financial rewards that other careers do. Questions to Ask : Do you have the financial resources to run a campaign and sustain yourself in office? Are you ready to disclose your financial status, as is often required? 5. Electability and Public Perception Popularity and public perception play a crucial role in politics. Your history, conduct, and even appearance are often subject to public scrutiny. Questions to Ask : How are you perceived by the community? Do you have any skeletons in the closet that could become public and harm your candidacy? 6. Team and Support System A successful campaign requires a dedicated team for various functions: strategizing, fundraising, public relations, and more. Questions to Ask : Do you have a trustworthy team or know how to assemble one? Do you have mentors or advisors in the political arena? 7. Regulatory and Legal Requirements Different positions have different eligibility criteria, filing requirements, and regulations. Questions to Ask : Are you familiar with the legal requirements for the position you are considering? Do you meet the eligibility criteria? 8. Long-Term Goals and Exit Strategy Public office is often not a lifetime appointment. Whether you serve one term or multiple, you will eventually move on. Questions to Ask : What are your long-term goals? Do you see politics as a career or a stepping stone to other endeavors? What's your exit strategy? The Starting Point, Not the Destination Contemplating these eight points is just the starting point; running for public office is a long, complicated journey that will demand constant adjustment and reevaluation. However, these considerations can give you a solid foundation for making an informed decision. Running for public office is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. If you are considering this path, taking the time to reflect on these eight considerations will provide valuable insights and prepare you for the challenges and rewards that lie ahead.
By Kim Anthony
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September 4, 2023
Chris Smalls has emerged as an unlikely hero, not just for the workers of Amazon but for the labor movement across America and beyond. He has become the President of the Amazon Labor Union, catalyzing significant shifts in a company known for its tough anti-union stance. His rise from a rank-and-file worker to a labor organizer has lessons in leadership that transcend industrial contexts and have universal applicability. 1. Embrace the Unexpected Chris’s journey began when he unexpectedly walked out of Amazon three years ago. His decision, driven by a deep-rooted sense of justice, has today turned him into a symbol of hope for many. Leaders often need to embrace the unexpected and leverage it for positive change. 2. Prioritize the Immediate Task Despite the allure of media attention and numerous emails, Chris has remained focused on getting a contract for JFK workers. Leaders should always keep their eyes on the immediate goal, ensuring it aligns with the broader mission. 3. Share the Reality Chris paints a vivid picture of the demanding work environment at Amazon. By sharing his personal experience, he humanizes the struggle and educates the masses on the realities many face. Great leaders tell stories that connect and mobilize. 4. Find Inspiration from Setbacks The failed unionization attempt in Bessemer, Alabama, became a source of inspiration for Chris. Leaders often encounter setbacks; the key is to learn from them and use them as fuel to keep going. 5. Build Solidarity Beyond Borders Chris's commitment isn't limited to America. He has connected with workers from London to Cuba, demonstrating the universality of the labor struggle. Leaders must think globally, fostering international collaborations and solidarity. 6. Stay Motivated While challenges abound, Chris is driven by the possibility of causing billionaires to rethink their decisions. He's inspired by stories of grassroots movements and international solidarity. Leaders must find their unique source of motivation to persist. 7. Learn Continuously From understanding the deep divides in organizational alignments to the intricacies of American labor politics, Chris's journey is one of continuous learning. Effective leaders are always students, open to gaining new insights and understanding. 8. Foster International Solidarity Chris's efforts have sparked interest from other organizations and countries. By fostering international collaboration, leaders can amplify their cause and create a more substantial impact. 9. Celebrate Victories but Look Ahead The Amazon Labor Union's election win was monumental, but Chris understands that it's the beginning. Leaders should celebrate victories but must always focus on the next milestone. 10. Hold Entities Accountable Whether it's Amazon or established unions, Chris stresses the importance of accountability. Leaders must consistently challenge existing systems, pushing them towards greater fairness and justice. In conclusion, Chris Smalls's leadership journey is an inspiration to many. His commitment, resilience, and vision offer lessons not just for labor organizers but for leaders across sectors. As the labor landscape continues to evolve, it's voices like Chris's that will guide the way, urging us all to build a more equitable and just world.
By Kim Anthony
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September 3, 2023
Entrepreneurship is a journey paved with challenges, risks, and opportunities. In the world of business, there are few voices as authoritative and inspiring as Daymond John's. As a successful entrepreneur, investor, and star of the hit TV show "Shark Tank," Daymond John has shared his wisdom and insights that have become valuable lessons for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. Here are eight lessons we've learned from Daymond John about entrepreneurship: 1. Start Small, Think Big Daymond's journey began with a modest investment of $40, sewing homemade hats in his mother's living room. This humble start taught him the importance of taking the first step, even when resources are limited. He emphasizes the need to think big but start small, leveraging what you have to make gradual progress toward your goals. 2. Solve Real Problems One of Daymond's key principles is to identify problems that need solving. Successful businesses often emerge from addressing genuine pain points faced by consumers. By focusing on solutions that add value to people's lives, entrepreneurs can tap into sustainable demand and build a loyal customer base. 3. The Power of Branding Daymond is a firm believer in the power of branding. He turned FUBU (For Us, By Us) into a global fashion brand by connecting with the hip-hop community and championing inclusivity. His lesson? Build a brand that tells a story and resonates with your target audience. A strong brand creates emotional connections and sets you apart in a competitive market. 4. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity Failure is often seen as a setback, but Daymond sees it as a stepping stone to success. He acknowledges his past failures and emphasizes that learning from mistakes is crucial for growth. Every failure provides valuable lessons that can guide future decisions and strategies. 5. Stay Hungry and Persistent Daymond's journey to success was far from smooth, marked by rejections and obstacles. His story teaches us the importance of perseverance and hunger. Entrepreneurship requires a relentless drive to overcome challenges, adapt to change, and keep pushing forward, even when the odds seem stacked against you. 6. Know Your Numbers Inside and Out Numbers are the language of business, and Daymond stresses the significance of understanding your financials. Whether it's profit margins, costs, or revenue projections, a deep understanding of your financial metrics empowers you to make informed decisions and negotiate effectively. 7. Build Relationships and Networks In the business world, relationships matter. Daymond's success was shaped by his ability to build strong connections with mentors, partners, and customers. He advises entrepreneurs to network, seek mentorship, and nurture relationships as they can provide valuable guidance, opportunities, and support. Daymond John's journey from a small start to a globally recognized entrepreneur is a testament to his expertise and insights into the world of business. These eight lessons serve as a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs, guiding them through the challenges and triumphs of building and growing a successful enterprise. By embracing these principles, entrepreneurs can navigate their own paths to success with confidence and determination.
By Kim Anthony
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September 2, 2023
If you're venturing into the realm of life coaching, congratulations! This rewarding career offers a unique opportunity to facilitate meaningful change in people's lives. However, the journey to becoming a respected life coach is paved with challenges and pitfalls. Avoid being an amateur in the game by steering clear of these common mistakes. 1. Overpromising and Underdelivering The Mistake: Making grandiose promises like "I'll change your life in one week!" What to Do: Be realistic about the outcomes you can facilitate. Give clients a balanced perspective on what they can achieve and how you will support them. 2. Lacking Proper Credentials The Mistake: Assuming reading a few self-help books or having a social work background makes you qualified. What to Do: Look for accredited courses and certificates in life coaching. Keep learning and stay updated on relevant techniques and research. 3. Relying on Clichés The Mistake: Offering platitudes like "Just believe in yourself" as solutions. What to Do: Use proven strategies, techniques, and exercises to guide your client through their challenges. 4. Not Setting Boundaries The Mistake: Taking calls at all hours or giving advice on topics you're not qualified for. What to Do: Clearly define your working hours and the scope of your coaching. If a client needs specialized help, refer them to the appropriate professional. 5. Overlooking the Importance of Active Listening The Mistake: Dominating the conversation instead of letting the client express themselves. What to Do: Use active listening techniques. The more you understand the client, the better you can tailor your coaching to their needs. 6. One-Size-Fits-All Approach The Mistake: Using the same techniques and strategies for all clients. What to Do: Individualize your coaching approach to suit each client's specific needs, goals, and circumstances. 7. Ignoring the Follow-up The Mistake: Not checking in on a client after a session or not tracking their progress. What to Do: Keep detailed records of each session and set up follow-up meetings to discuss progress and modify strategies as necessary. 8. Neglecting Self-Care The Mistake: Focusing so much on clients that you forget to take care of yourself. What to Do: Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Allocate time for self-care so you can better serve your clients. 9. Giving Advice Instead of Facilitating The Mistake: Telling clients exactly what to do instead of helping them find their own solutions. What to Do: Your role is to guide, not dictate. Empower your clients to make their own decisions and facilitate their own growth. 10. Lack of Professionalism The Mistake: Casual attire, tardiness, or using slang and colloquial language that may not resonate with all clients. What to Do: Maintain a high level of professionalism in your attire, language, and punctuality to gain and keep the trust of your clients. By avoiding these common mistakes and taking proactiv e steps to counteract them, you'll be well on your way to transitioning from an amateur to a highly respected professional in the field of life coaching.
By Kim Anthony
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September 2, 2023
Under-earning, often a result of undervaluing one’s worth, skills, or time, can be a debilitating habit that stands in the way of achieving one's financial and personal potential. Breaking free from this cycle can lead to increased self-esteem, financial freedom, and a more fulfilling professional journey. Here are 11 strategies to address and conquer the habit of habitual under-earning: 1. Self-Awareness is the First Step Before addressing under-earning, one must recognize it. Monitor your income, track your working hours, and compare your earnings with industry standards. Acknowledging the disparity is essential. 2. Set Clear Financial Goals Establish clear, measurable financial goals. Whether it’s a desired annual income, a target hourly rate, or a specific project fee, having a number in mind provides a tangible target. 3. Know Your Worth Research market rates for your profession, skills, and experience. Use platforms like Glassdoor, Payscale, or industry-specific databases to get a clear picture of what you should be earning. 4. Invest in Continuous Learning Boost your earning potential by staying updated in your field. Attend workshops, get certifications, and consistently upgrade your skills. The more valuable your skillset, the higher your earning potential. 5. Practice Negotiation Many under-earners shy away from negotiating salaries or fees. Start practicing negotiation skills in low-stakes situations and gradually apply them in professional scenarios. 6. Avoid Overcommitting Learn to say "no." Taking on too many tasks, especially if they are underpaid, can keep you trapped in the under-earning cycle. Prioritize opportunities that align with your worth. 7. Surround Yourself with Support Connect with mentors, join professional groups, or find peers who understand your worth and encourage you to break out of under-earning habits. Their support can be invaluable. 8. Diversify Income Streams Look for alternative income streams. Freelance work, consulting, or even passive income opportunities can supplement your primary income and elevate your overall earnings. 9. Reframe Your Mindset Under-earning often stems from deep-seated beliefs about money and self-worth. Consider professional coaching or counseling to address and transform any limiting beliefs. 10. Review and Adjust Regularly Periodically review your earnings and set new benchmarks. As you grow in your profession and gain more experience, your worth increases. Adjust your rates and salary expectations accordingly. 11. Celebrate Small Wins Every time you successfully negotiate a better rate, land a higher-paying client, or reach a financial goal, celebrate it. This positive reinforcement will motivate you to continue breaking the under-earning cycle. In conclusion, breaking the habit of habitual under-earning requires a combination of self-awareness, proactive efforts, and continuous self-improvement. With dedication and the right strategies, it’s entirely possible to redefine your professional worth and achieve the financial success you deserve.
By Kim Anthony
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September 1, 2023
African-American men, like all men, deserve to live long, healthy lives. However, due to specific social, economic, and genetic factors, some health challenges disproportionately affect this group. By addressing these challenges head-on, African-American men can access and sustain optimal health. Here are ten actionable steps to consider: Prioritize Regular Medical Check-ups Regular screenings can catch diseases like hypertension, diabetes, or prostate cancer early. African-American men have higher rates of these conditions, making early detection critical. Engage in Physical Activity The CDC suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, combined with muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week. Physical activity can help manage weight, reduce stress, and combat chronic diseases. Adopt a Balanced Diet Incorporate whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive salt can combat obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Manage Stress Chronic stress can lead to a range of health issues. Find coping mechanisms that work, whether it's meditation, reading, hobbies, or counseling. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking Excessive alcohol can lead to liver problems, certain cancers, and high blood pressure. Smoking, meanwhile, is linked to many types of cancer, respiratory diseases, and heart diseases. Stay Informed on Prostate Health Prostate cancer is more prevalent and more aggressive in African-American men. Regular screenings and being informed about the risks can lead to early detection. Maintain Mental Health Addressing mental health is just as crucial as physical health. Therapy, counseling, or simply talking to someone can make a big difference. Join a Support Group or Network Having a support group or being part of a community that shares similar experiences can be therapeutic. It provides an avenue to share concerns, get advice, or just feel understood. Be Educated About Medication African-Americans sometimes respond differently to medications than other racial groups, particularly for diseases like hypertension. Engage with a healthcare professional about the right medications and dosages. Advocate for Health Equality Systemic disparities exist that can limit access to quality healthcare for African-Americans. Advocacy can help bridge the gap, ensuring that everyone, regardless of race, has the opportunity to achieve optimal health. Achieving and sustaining excellent health requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both individual and systemic challenges. For African-American men, recognizing and actively addressing these unique challenges can pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
By Kim Anthony
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September 1, 2023
For many people, travel can be an important part of personal development. When we stay in our own comfort zone, in contexts we’ve always known, it’s easy to not change much on the inside.
