Genesis C. Veronon leads the community’s youth sportsmanship through his ongoing Shootfest Tournaments and by providing fresh soap to those in need. Previously, Veronon ran a steady record distribution and production company called Insiders Music, which sold physical CDs to locals. Both the fest and former music distribution effectively operate out of NorthTown Mall.
Veronon shares that his strive for success began under the mentorship of business owners and family members.
“I’ve been inspired most of my life from others,” he said.
During his study as a young man he recalls experiences that guided him toward the goals that he would achieve after lessons learned.
“‘School within a school’ was a middle-school program that was for kids that were a little bit behind, there was a mentor that I was assigned to named Drew Brooks,” Veronon said.
Unbeknownst to Veronon, Brooks owned NorthTown Mall and offered him the mental toughness needed for entrepreneurial development.
“He gave me tools for catching my own fish,” he said. “Learning to catch your own fish is something that’s essential.”
Veronon’s late grandfather was a bishop who had a camp that operated during the summer, as well as a Christmas program. Having developed entrepreneurial skills through mentorship, Veronon reflects that he is a mulit-faceted businessman because he observed multi-tasked entrepreneurs. He carefully considered their view points even while in college.
“I was actually in school for social work and I decided I’d drop out of school,” he said. “My business teacher was the owner of Spokandy. What was interesting is he would always say when you’re young start a business because if it fails you can start another business. You know, while you’re young.
“So I actually dropped out of college to start Insiders Music. I think we grossed like $4 million in five years selling independent music.”
He explains that he has no opposition to the academic route to success. Furthermore, understanding that if you don’t use it you lose it. Veronon believes that taking the college route is good and could also potentially open more doors than expected.
“You can’t lose by trying to get educated and you can’t lose by trying to be an entrepreneur,” he said. “Because you’re going to get educated anyway, throughout that process.”
When questioned about entrepreneurial goals, he said his focus would be to stimulate the economy, open doors and create opportunities. Thus, paying it forward is most important along-side positivity for this next generation.