by John Reid

On Saturday the Business Crossing Network held their Q2 Vendor Meeting, and the PW Perspective’s John Reid met with the owner of Black Coffee DMV, Dr. Leonard Lightfoot. He talked about how the coffee & espresso catering service is about more than providing a refreshing beverage.

“For us, coffee’s always been about community,” he said, “and that’s something we’ve used as our vehicle. Black Coffeee is an example of financial freedom, community empowerment, and entrepreneurship.”

This month, they are preparing to meet for their annual coffee fest taking place in a few weeks.

“Black Coffee Fest (June 15-16) is an opportunity to give back to the community and promote those three pillars,” he said. “It’s a two-day event in Atlanta where we’ll have over 40 vendors to show their products, as well as open up to the community”

“It’s not about selling a product, there will be workshops, demonstrations, social activities for students, and fun things for kids to do. It will be right next door to our coffeehouse.”

Among the ways they are giving back is through Operation Hope. Dr. Lightfoot talked about how it started and how Black Coffee aligns with its purpose.

“It was founded by Chairman John Hope Bryant,” he said. “He’s been a freedom fighter for decades. It started in 1992 after the riots, and we felt that as a community, in order to advance, we had to be financially literate. He’s been championing this effort since then. It aligns with our core principles, and it’s an opportunity for partnership. They’ve invested $25,000 into our company. He’s going to be the keynote speaker, and his team will be there to provide resources for entrepreneurs.”

So, how did Black Coffee get started?

“When we were at Motown, we learned from Berry Gordy on how to pull our resources together,” he said. “It started with us investing $50 into an investment club. In 2018, we formed Black Coffee, and it’s always been about showcasing the power of working together. Coffee is the vehicle to promote unity.”

Dr. Lightfoot provides foundational wisdom for having a successful endeavor.

“Regardless of what you’re doing in your personal life, you need to have a good financial understanding. Money makes the world go around, and that’s why financial management is one of our core principles.”

To find out more about Black Coffee and the upcoming Black CoffeeFest, please visit their website, or Instagram.