With over 22 million viewers of NBC’s The Apprentice, it would be hard to drift into anonymity. Entrepreneur Kwame Jackson is no different – surpassing the expectations of a “typical” runner up. His path leading to Donald Trump’s reality series in 2004 was by no means “typical,” and naturally would not follow suit after the taping. A proud descendant of Africans enslaved in Georgetown, South Carolina, (ironically tracing back to the same plantation city as Michelle Obama’s ancestors), Jackson is no stranger to resilience. After losing his mother at 15, he was made to mature and become very self –reliant - very quickly. Fast forward to today, the DC native has not only appeared on one of the most groundbreaking reality series of this decade, the Harvard MBA grad is also credentialed with prestigious Wall Street experience (most recently as an Investment Manager for Goldman Sachs), is one of the most sought after public speakers nationally, and an international businessman. Still courted by Fortune 500 companies, the 34 year old has already been given the keys to cities of Detroit, Indianapolis and Trenton.
In Jackson’s first book, Stay Hungry!: Essential Principles of Persistence You Need to Succeed, he compiled a series of personal interviews with “...20 global icons and personal mentors sharing their secrets to success and perseverance.”
The launch of Krimson, is perhaps his boldest venture –blending his business brawn with his fashion sense. “Apprentice viewers told me they really enjoyed the ties, shirts, and suits I wore on the show, so as an entrepreneur I decided to create my own line that spoke to the Generation X Global Professional rather than endorse someone else’s.” Described by Jackson as “a global luxury lifestyle brand for aspiring professionals,” the deluxe silk neckwear collection is available in Macy’s and Belk’s department stores in the U.S. Keen on both expanding his offerings to a full scale apparel collection and his retail distribution to the Caribbean, Krimson is also available online at www.krimsonbykwame.com
We caught up with the ever in- demand Kwame Jackson and convinced him to take a few minutes off, kicking back in Ocean Splash’s Coffee Shop!
Coffee Shop Questions
Who is your favorite new designer? Favorite classic designer?
S. Kuhlman & Ralph Lauren Purple Label
Your favorite place in the world to relax?
In Bora Bora – absolutely, positively doing nothing while floating around sipping on a Pina Colada and enjoying GOD’s natural beauty.
Do you have any morning habits that you MUST do no matter where you are in the world?
I’m a very clean person, so of course I must brush my teeth and take a bath. I also like to workout in the morning, when possible.
Favorite new trend, worst new trend?
My favorite is big-faced non-jeweled watches. In my opinion the worst new trend is way too much Twitter.
One item that you always purchase at the grocery store?
Bottled water or milk
Do you have any superstitions or phobias?
As a spiritual person, I do believe in the power of prayer and being thankful for health and opportunities. I make sure that I’m on my knees being thankful as much as possible. I don’t necessarily ask for anything. I’m thankful for what I’ve already been blessed with.
Favorite new beauty product?
Clean & Clear Daily Face Moisturizer
Most recent splurge?
Wrong question! I’m an entrepreneur and it’s the GREAT RECESSION. I’m trying to remember what the word “splurge” means.
Things that make you feel sexy?
Being fit, a good haircut or glowing skin day, a great outfit, positive attitude, spirit and momentum in my life...
Your biggest celebrity crush?
Jessica Alba
Best place to eat for $20 US dollars or less?
Pop Burger or Cafeteria in Manhattan, New York
Do you play any instruments?
I don’t play any instruments because as a kid, I lacked the patience and discipline to be in a band. My hyperactivity turned into multi-tasking. If I did play, it would be something cool like the guitar or trumpet. I’d play a Miles Davis classic on the horn.
Favorite appetizer?
Anything shrimp, hummus or warm crab/cheese/spinach dip with pita.
One thing that gets you through Monday mornings?
Exercise and the firm belief that as an entrepreneur, everyday is Friday with a small dose of Monday - because you are working towards your passion.
Your favorite hotel?
The roof deck at the Gansevoort Hotel in South Beach, Miami. The best rooms are any of the high-end suites at the Vegas hotels.
If your life had a theme song what would it be?
“Hustlin’” by Rick Ross
If you only had 7 hours in your most favorite city in the world what would you do?
Something not rated PG-13 at an undisclosed, glamorous, spontaneous location. New York is my favorite city.
Do you have a fashion alter ego?
Bond....James Bond
If you had 10 children, what would they be named?
I would never have 10 children, I like kids, but I know my limitations on patience. I like the names Nehemiah, Toure, Bliss, Harlem, Garvey, Savoy
If you could eat one food in excess-without gaining a pound, what would it be?
Alaskan King Crab Legs
Your favorite wild animal?
Tiger
3 things that you often dream about at night.
...life’s drama and life’s joy
Top 3 survival tactics if lost in the woods?
1. Cell Phone
2. Water
3. Eat anything before it eats you – the omnivore theory
One luxury item that you could do without if giving it back would help to boost the economy?
My huge flat screen Sony TV
