The Journey of Justin Dawkins: From Self-Taught Coder to Million-Dollar Investor

Hello, readers! Today, we have the pleasure of presenting an inspiring journey in the realm of technology and entrepreneurship - the story of Justin Dawkins.

A self-taught coder since high school and an entrepreneur since his college days, Justin's initiation into the world of business was born out of necessity and a little boredom. His early endeavors laid the groundwork for a path he couldn't fully foresee, leading him to a successful career at the intersection of marketing and technology.

Justin co-founded SoulSong and later partnered with Joey Womack to establish Goody Nation, an organization many of our readers may be familiar with. His pioneering spirit caught the attention of Google, leading to his appointment as the Atlanta Google Digital Coach in 2017. In this role, Justin championed the cause of small businesses, creatives, and startups, helping them access resources, knowledge, and tools – both Google's and others.

However, Justin's entrepreneurial journey didn't stop there. A couple of years later, he teamed up with two fellow entrepreneurs, raising an impressive $50 million by 2021. Their mission? To invest in emerging black innovations across the country. Today, they have already deployed over $22 million in approximately 20 to 30 promising ventures. It's an achievement worthy of applause, a testament to their dedication and belief in nurturing innovation and talent.

You might be wondering: how does one manage to raise such a considerable sum for a cause? Justin's answer lies not in convincing others to give money but in demonstrating the value of your brand and your cause. He candidly admitted that he faced many rejections - so many that he lost count after 100 - but he learned to focus on the "yeses" and not get bogged down by the "nos."

The real nugget of wisdom Justin shared is about having a clear fundraising strategy. For him, it's not about starting with an ask for money. Instead, it's about identifying what you need help with, asking for that help, and allowing the money to follow organically.

Justin Dawkins' story is a reminder that the path to success is often non-linear. It's filled with unexpected turns and requires resilience, adaptability, and a clear vision. His journey from self-taught coder to a leading figure in technology and entrepreneurship is an inspiration for anyone looking to carve their path in this dynamic industry. It underscores the value of persistence, the importance of a clear strategy, and the power of believing in your cause. And as Justin continues to pave the way, we look forward to seeing the continued impact of his work on black innovations and beyond.