- Activities
On Tuesday, February 27, 2024, entrepreneur, public speaker, and author Chi Uwazurike spoke to Catholic Central students about the secrets behind becoming a successful business owner.
During his talk to students, Uwazurike asked students if they knew what an ecosystem was. He explained that to be successful, students need to form a group or ecosystem of people they can take with them on their journey. His message for students was to figure out what your plan and passion is and don’t be afraid to fail.
Nigerian-born Uwazurike is one of the youngest, longest-standing Black business owners in Royal Oak. He opened the clothing store Le Don located on Washington Avenue during the pandemic in 2020 and has been in business since.
His store sells the Don Collection, a fashion line of high-end urban wear for men and women, including hoodies, jeans, and sneakers, that inspire progression, inclusion, and becoming the best version of yourself.
“Everyday is a learning lesson. Understand where you want to go. Make sure you’re ready. High school is the time to figure out what you want. Apply to colleges. Build your network and who you want to take with you on your journey. Ask for help. Your teachers are here to help you with your sense of direction,” Uwazurike stated.
He also talked to students about the importance of losing. “How you act when you lose is how you’ll act when you win.”
Uwazurike holds a Bachelors and Master’s degree from Wayne State University. He secured a full-ride academic scholarship to study biology, but later sacrificed his full-ride to major in economics and minor in business after discovering his true passion – a seemingly risky decision that inspired many of his fashion designs. He also has an extensive background in finance, working at Rocket Mortgage and Bank of America before opening his own business.
The slogan for his clothing line is Try New Heights. “Things that scare me and appear dangerous excite me,” he stated. Every piece in his collection tells a story, inspiring customers to be true to themselves, work hard for what they want, and never give up.
Uwazurike encouraged students who are interested in starting a business to get their friends and family involved. However, to be truly successful, you have to be all in yourself. “No one is going to invest in your business if you don’t invest in your business.”
He talked about things to be aware of when starting a business. He said that when it comes to fashion branding, the more people who wear your clothes, the better. He also talked about how to start an LLC and the importance of understanding your audience. “What men shop for is different than what women shop for,” he stated.
Follow Uwazurike on Instagram at LeΜ Don π³π¬π€πΎ (B.I.P DadποΈ) (@le____don) • Instagram photos and videos.