Street King

50 Cent is probably smarter than you.

One of the things I enjoy studying most is the business success stories behind the names we know and love in the entertainment industry. Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson is adored by fans for his music catalogue, but I’ve long since been enamored by 50 for his marketing savvy and business prowess.

I came to fully appreciate the brilliance behind 50 Cent’s operation upon reading The 50th Law, which has become one of my favorite books.

It details the story behind 50’s astronomical success and how he made the leap from street hustler to music mogul and successful entrepreneur.

The underlying concept, however, is developing an utter fearlessness in all aspects of life. It’s a powerful book, and one that I re-read often.

50’s latest project is called Street King, which represents his effort with the United Nations World Food Programme to combat world hunger.

“I want to feed a billion kids and I need your help to do it. I need you to utilize your energy, your voice, to provide additional motivation for me at times. My new project is called SK, Street King and y’all know the plan.”

It’s an energy “shot” that has a humanitarian slant: every bottle sold provides a meal for an impoverished child. The effort was conceived during a trip 50 made to Africa, which opened his eyes to the devastation poverty and hunger.

I think this is the future of entrepreneurship. Social good combined with sound business and powerful brands like 50s make for a formidable combination.

Good on you, 50.

Fun fact: the Street Kings website runs WordPress and CloudFlare. Neat.

Willie Jackson is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Consultant & Facilitator with ReadySet, a boutique consulting firm based in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is a frequent writer and speaker on the topics of workplace equity, global diversity, and inclusive leadership. Connect on LinkedIn or get in touch.

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