"Preparation + Opportunities = Success. Be Prepared." This is the outlook Jackson native, Brian Hart, has on life. Brian is headed into his final semester at Hinds Community College in Jackson, MS. Upon his completion, he will attend Jackson State University, majoring in Graphic Design. I forsee this as the beginning of Team Uptown. Pay close attention, as you WILL see Team Uptown on billboards in the near future.
I had the pleasure of getting to know Brian during my two-year stay in Jackson, MS; we attended the same church, Lynch Street C.M.E. From the first time I met him (besides the silly streak) I knew there was something very interesting about him. Determined? Yes! Creative? Very much so! Driven? Absolutely? While most guys Brian's age are focused on young ladies and video game (which I'm sure he's very much connected to as well haha), Brian is more focused on building his brand and establishing his own clothing line, Team Uptown.
As always, I love to highlight young entrepreneurs. I salute anyone trying to make a lasting impression on today's generation. Last week I was given the opportunity to talk with with Brian about Team Uptown. Please see the interview below.
NRH: What is Team Uptown and how did you come up with the name?
BRIAN: Team Uptown is a clothing brand creating in Jackson, MS. Ironically, the name stemmed from a college nickname "uptown".
NRH: Who is your target market?
BRIAN: My products are typically geared towards young, hip, and urban persons. However, my clothing line is open to all.
NRH: How did Team Uptown come about?
BRIAN: Approximately 1.5 years ago I realized that I wanted to leave my mark in this world; I wanted to be known for something Brian invented. With that in mind, my love for fashion, and being semi "different", I focused on creating a clothing brand.
NRH: What promotional items do you have to offer?
BRIAN: In my line of work, promotional items are essential. As or right now, we offer t-shirts and sweatshirts. In the future, we plan to offer various items such as rubber bands, stickers, etc.
NRH: Where do you see Team Uptown in the next five years?
BRIAN: They say if you're going to dream, dream big! With that being said, Team Uptown WILL be in stores nationwide. Pay close attention, you will also see my brand being promoted in videos by mainstream artists!
NRH: What is the single most influential factor in making Team Uptown successful? What is your motivation?
BRIAN: The most influential factor for my success thus far is my drive and determination. My motivation is to become the best person I can be. Also, to become success and make my parents proud.
NRH: What are your thoughts on education? Most tend to think it's okay for your education to take a "back seat" if you're thriving without a degree. What do you think?
BRIAN: I believe education is the key to a successful future. It is the one thing no one can ever take from you. After finishing at HCC, I plan to enroll at Jackson State University to complete my degree in Graphic Design. Education is definitely important in 2012. If all else fails, you still have your education.
NRH: Where can we purchase Team Uptown products?
BRIAN: Visit www.TeamUptown.BigCartel.com
Brian left me with a few words of wisdom: "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." He truly believes that if he takes the proper steps to plan today, success will follow. Follow Brian Hart on twitter @BriingTheFame.
