Today we’d like to introduce you to Arlinsen Furlow.
Arlinsen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
There’s a lot to say about my journey, but at its heart, it’s a story of resilience, faith, and purpose. I was once a single father raising a young man and a beautiful young lady—though I say was because both of my children are now grown and pursuing their own paths.
My entrepreneurial journey began nearly two decades ago when I founded D&E Fraternal Supplies LLC, an e-commerce business that proudly served schools, fraternal organizations, and community groups. The company flourished for several years, but in 2006, my life changed forever. I lost my greatest inspiration—my mother—who passed away at the age of 60. Her passing left a void that led me into a difficult period of depression and loss. I eventually shut down my business and, for a time, lost parts of myself.
Not long after, I found myself homeless. Yet even in my darkest moments, I refused to give up. I knew I had two reasons to keep going—my children. They became my motivation to rebuild, to rise again, and to become the man and father I was meant to be.
I returned to work in marketing and IT, later becoming a market manager for a promotional marketing company. By 2014, I transitioned into the healthcare field, delivering medical equipment—a role I truly valued until I suffered a severe, career-ending back injury. It was another setback, but not the end of my story.
Confined and unable to work for months, I decided to transform my pain into purpose. I went back to school for the fifth time, earning my Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, graduating Magna Cum Laude, and becoming a proud member of four national honor societies. Along the way, I also earned an Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design, plus certifications in Security+, CISSP, CIW, and Computer Specialist training.
Even though my disability made returning to traditional employment difficult, my entrepreneurial spirit only grew stronger. When I was unable to relaunch D&E Fraternal Supplies, I evolved my vision and created MindShok Merchants LLC—a company that reflects both my creativity and my passion for technology. Today, MindShok Merchants includes MindShok Graphics Studio and All Things I.T. (A.T.I.T.), offering professional services in e-commerce, IT solutions, graphic design, web development, business consulting, and cybersecurity.
But my mission extends beyond business. I’m deeply committed to giving back and building up others. Through my volunteer work with local non-profits, I help feed the homeless weekly and support programs like the Empty Stocking Fund, which provides resources for teachers and students throughout Metro Atlanta. These acts of service are not just community work—they’re personal healing and a way to honor the people who once helped me when I had nothing.
Today, I’m continuing to expand my impact through The DarqSquare Podcast and other creative platforms that highlight the voices of Black fathers, community leaders, and non-profit organizations.
My journey has been filled with trials, but also with triumphs. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about what you overcome and how many lives you touch along the way. Every challenge has shaped me into who I am today: a father, creator, mentor, and servant leader—building my community and my dreams, one step at a time.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Along my journey, I’ve faced significant struggles that have shaped who I am today. I have experienced homelessness twice and, in 2013, was hospitalized and placed in a medically induced coma due to serious health issues. As a result, I lost half of my left foot and live with a disability, though I’m grateful that I can still walk and function, even if not as I once could.
In addition to personal challenges, I’ve faced financial obstacles in building and sustaining my business. Rising costs, tariffs, and relying on vendors in the UAE have made it more difficult than ever to keep things running. Despite these hardships, I continue to push forward with resilience, hard work, and faith that these challenges will pass.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My creative work is rooted in graphic design and web design, where I specialize in developing impactful visuals and digital experiences. I have designed for a range of organizations, including high schools, church groups, fraternities, and the Masonic order, tailoring each project to reflect their unique identity and purpose. What I value most is that my work not only captures attention but also serves as a source of inspiration—for others and for myself. This ability to blend artistry with purpose continues to fuel my passion and drive as a designer.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
To me, success is defined by the impact I leave on others and how I feel about myself at the end of the day. It’s not measured by titles or money, but by the quality of the work I perform, how it’s received, and the way I make people feel through my actions. True success comes from serving others, showing kindness, and uplifting those around me.
I believe success should not be judged by selfish standards, but rather by how we treat people and the good we contribute to the world. For example, I find success in cooking and feeding the homeless each week, or in offering help to someone in need. These acts may not bring monetary gain, but they bring meaning, fulfillment, and purpose. To me, that is what success truly looks like.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mindshokmerchants.com
- Instagram: @mindshok_merchants
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F6wxjykCz/
Image Credits
Brenda Furlow, Rodney Hammond, Gary Smith, Arlinsen Furlow
