Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Clark.
Erica, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Have you ever accomplished a goal and your friends, family and/or associates didn’t hold up to their end of the bargain by providing support? Have any of you ever experienced unjust behavior in the workplace due to the texture of your hair or the color of your skin? Or did you ever feel helpless when there was a rise in homicides by law enforcement within the Black community? I, Erica Clark can attest to each one of these scenarios which is how I came up with a valuable solution that would benefit the unsupported, the unjust and the feelings of helplessness within the community.
Four years ago, when I published my first book, I realized my number of supporters had lessened by the time my idea had reached reality. I also noticed I was focused on the wrong things such as who thought my accomplishments were mediocre, who didn’t support me and who didn’t believe in me. When ultimately, I didn’t support and believe in myself. Shortly after releasing my book, I relocated to Massachusetts where I first encountered unjust behavior within the workplace. I had gotten denied a 2nd job interview after the refusal of cutting off my dreadlocks. This was an eye-opening experience for me because I had never been exposed to anything so discriminatory in my 25 years of life. Also, during this time, police brutality within the Black community was at an all-time high which brought forth a great deal of mixed feelings. Feelings of helplessness, inadequacy, and a sense of rage. Despite the adversities that had taken place that year I knew I couldn’t just be quiet anymore. I knew I couldn’t just sit down anymore. So, I figured it would be feasible to create a movement that would address my personal feelings as well as my experiences while also spreading awareness of accomplishments achieved within the Black community. We don’t get put on that pedestal as much as we should and as much as we deserve. And I wanted to create a space for that.
Has it been a smooth road?
I truly wish I can say this journey has been smooth thus far. But the reality of it is, is it hasn’t. It’s an everyday struggle and a lesson learned daily. But the beautiful thing about these struggles is that I’m rewarded at the end of each bump in the road. I’m either rewarded knowledge or understanding.
For me, the main struggles that I have encountered are maintaining the business, dimming my light and capabilities as a business owner and a creative and consistency.
Tell us about your company. What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of as a company? What sets you apart from others?
ISUPPORTBOBS is a platform that uplift and empower black-owned businesses while influencing Black Entrepreneurship. We also provide influential merchandise that acknowledges Black Entrepreneurs. We specialize in going out into the Black community and investing our money, time and energy on those businesses that are making differences inside and outside of the Black Community.
I think what sets ISUPPORTBOBS apart from other businesses is that we push our brand of course but we also push other brands too for FREE. Our Brand is very much important to us. However, It’ more important for us to see the smile on a New Black Entrepreneur face when others counted them out but we supported from the very start.
As a company, I’m proud mostly of sustainability and Growth. I know it may seem like a cliché answer. However, with all the L’s I took as an entrepreneur and a person within the past three years, we’re proud to see that ISUPPORTBOBS sustained through hardships and adversities. When you can maintain your business when life gives you lemons, I truly feel like you’re passionate about what you are doing.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Atlanta has been nothing short of amazing to myself as well as my business. They welcomed me with open arms whether it was in person or by showing support via the internet. I would recommend any Black Entrepreneur that’s not currently in Atlanta to start their business wherever they are at the time. Then, consider Atlanta as a spot for expansion. Now, if you’re already here, Atlanta is a great place to start that business. Atlanta hosts a plethora of events that will allow entrepreneurs insight on how to run a business as well as how to drive your business to success,
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.iheartbobs.com
- Phone: 9199850892
- Email: iheartblackownedbusinesses@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/isupportbobs
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/isupportbobs
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/isupportbobs
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