Today we’d like to introduce you to Dorian Sibedwo.
Dorian, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was born in South East DC and raised in Prince Georges County, MD. At the time, I was the youngest of four kids, three boys and one girl. My parents came to the US from a country directly below Nigeria in West Africa. They worked extremely hard to provide us with what little they had and instilled into us; core values that have molded me to be the man that I am today. Life wasn’t always easy, but I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to experience things some people only dream of. I lived in Africa for four years of my life, then Baltimore, where I was constantly getting into trouble and finally PG county where I call home. From getting arrested and sleeping in my car to obtaining a bachelor’s in computer science and and MBA, as well as a business and multiple properties, I have overcome multiple obstacles and gone from the kid who everyone counted out to the man they look up to.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I saw a meme that really, I could relate to, one day I will have it framed as a reminder of some of the obstacles. The meme I am referring to had two pictures one was a straight line which stated “what people think success looks like,” and the other picture was a line drawn all over the place, which stated “What it really looks like.” I went to one of the best High schools in the country to run track and play football with the idea that I would come out with a scholarship. Needless to say, neither happened. I was disappointed in myself and felt I let everyone down. I was able to finally get an offer; however, I was unable to secure room and board. By law a student is unable to attend without room and board. By spring semester, I received a call stating I was able to secure room and board and could attend school.
However, I turned it down to be there for my son by doing this. I essentially gave up football. Fast forward to July 2013. I was on my way to pick up some friends to go to the club as I pulled up to the house. Another car pulls up in front of me. Three officers exited the vehicle and asked for license and registration. I asked by chance if I could know what I was being stopped, to which the reply was “get out of the vehicle.” long story short, I was pulled out of my car, beaten and arrested without knowing what I did wrong. I spent two nights in jail, clueless as to what I did. One of my first phone calls was to my lawyer, who said to me, “you are lucky you didn’t get shot.” I could go one from being broke and having no job with a son to driving around looking for parks to sleep in, waking up early to get to work just to shower but all these things I am appreciative of. My first real job was working at a retirement home, Tues & Thu for three hours make $9.00 hr., one of the happiest days of my life.
3XCO Studio – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Growing up, music and entertainment as a whole has always been a passion of mine; even though I could do neither, there was something in the art that made me feel a sense of fulfillment. With everything going on in the black community and myself being a victim of police brutality, I wanted to give back to my community in a significant way by providing a platform for artists, entertainers, community organizers, bloggers to be able to express themselves and to use their voice in a manner that allowed them to be free, and with that 3XCO Studio was born. We are known for our Live shows where artists are able to perform to a virtual audience via YouTube, FaceBook, and other streaming platforms. We also host Podcast shows which talk about anything from politics to relationships. As a company, we are most proud of being able to give back to our community but to also create an environment where people are not judged. Good vibes all around!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
First and foremost, the Lord and savior, with every obstacle and setbacks, it’s through faith that I have been able to bounce back and move forward. My kids “Chop,” “baby girl,” “papito,” and “moo moo,” who have been extremely patient with me and understanding. They are my motivation to do better and be better. My brothers “Yoshi” “K’bs,” “Bella,” and my sister “Gg” who have pushed me and supported ALL of my good and bad ideas and there have been a few bad ones but they have been there to support me regardless. My parents, whom I cannot thank enough, they are the example of what I want to be.
They have been behind me through every obstacle and have guided me. Outside of family, there would be no 3XCO Studio without support from friends, mainly those who have been there since day one Tony, Lo, DHutch, Ben, Key, Tay, C Boogz, Nay, Kb Michaels from moving furniture to installations and engineering, shows, and equipment. Mr, K Minter not only my barber but my brother, mentor and one of the biggest supporters who believe in everything I say, I could say, hey K, I grew wings and flew today, his response would be, “you know what, Dorian, I always knew you could fly” lol. Last but certainly not least, My wife, who has been the foundation to which I have been able to build upon, and without that foundation as a man, you have nothing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.3xcostudio.com/
- Email: 3XCOStudio@Gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/3xco_studio/
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