Social Entrepreneurship & Hip Hop

Chaneal Conway
Aug 26, 2017 · 2 min read

Since I was younger, I’ve always admired and have been inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of Hip-Hop Mogul Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs. Being raised in West Philadelphia, Hip Hop Moguls such as Sean Combs made me believe that I too could be a leading CEO, Mogul or whatever my little heart dreamed of. He made it seem real despite what I experienced in my neighborhood and attending poor, inadequate schools.

From the music and shiny suits to his lifestyle brands Sean John, Ciroc and Aquahydrate to owning a cable network Revolt TV — we can clearly see that he, “Cant Stop, Won’t Stop.

Not only does has Puff changed the world of entrepreneurship, he is now contributing to the neighborhood where he was raised. This year, The Capital Preparatory Harlem Charter School was launched in a partnership between Combs and education leader Dr. Steve Perry. As outlined on the school’s website:

The mission of Capital Preparatory Schools is to provide historically disadvantaged students with the college and career readiness skills needed to become responsible and engaged citizens for social justice.

Capital Prep strives to ensure that all students are able to do so by offering a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, an eclectic variety of athletic programs, as well as a Gifted & Talented program for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic achievement.

Once again, I am inspired by the audacious strides that Puff continues to make. His passion seems to not only allow him to capitalize and build for his family, but to use his affluence to benefit the needs of others.

Here’s the take away: As we attain more success and money, we should never forget to reach back to give to those who are in need, not of our sympathy but of an opportunity. There’s no telling how far one can go with just one helping hand. Help someone. Change the world.

Secondly, when we speak on our dreams we must believe it and take the proper steps to see it through to fruition. Be committed. It has been 20 years since Puff proudly stated that:

‘Ten years from now we’ll still be on top, yo I thought I told you that we won’t stop’. As you see, there is no stopping this major force who is Sean Combs.

To start the school year off right, Puff sent an inspiring message to the students at Harlem Prep.

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Chaneal Conway

Digital Marketing & Strategy. Advocate for Teenage Girls.

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