August is National Black Business Month, a time to recognize and support NFTE alumni and other Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs across the country!
One such alumnus is Michael Stewart-Isaacs, whose story is a testament to determination, adaptability, and the power of mentorship. With over 20 years of experience in business development, technology, and new media, Michael has carved a path that serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
“My path with the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) has been an incredible journey of growth, learning, and giving back,” Michael reflects.
His connection with NFTE began in the mid-2000s, where he found mentorship from NFTE’s founder, Steve Mariotti. Despite the geographical distance, this relationship proved pivotal in shaping Michael’s entrepreneurial journey.
“The mentorship I received from Steve Mariotti was a beacon of hope and guidance. Our interactions, though just through phone calls and emails, were deeply impactful, providing me with the support and inspiration I needed to succeed as a young entrepreneur.”
Michael’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited at the young age of 14 when he faced a crucial realization: “My passion for music, while fulfilling, was not financially sustainable. This epiphany ignited a spark within me, propelling me to venture into the realm of fashion with the launch of my own clothing line.”
Today, as the CEO of Mosayk, a brand marketing & management firm based in Raleigh, North Carolina, Michael continues to apply the principles he learned through NFTE:
“At Mosayk, we’ve ignited a revolution in the apparel industry, not just by offering an array of in-house brands that cater to diverse tastes, but by intertwining these offerings with empowerment events that resonate deeply with our audience.”
Michael’s approach reflects NFTE’s emphasis on understanding customer needs and building strong relationships. Mosayk has become more than a business; it’s a community that celebrates individuality and collective progress.
His journey hasn’t been without challenges, particularly as a Black business owner. He shares:
“As a pioneer within my family and community, I faced the daunting task of building a business without the traditional support network that many rely on. Business acumen and financial literacy were not legacies passed down to me; I had to be the architect of my own destiny.”
Michael’s resilience was put to the test at the age of 22 when he took on the state of New York in a trademark case—and won. This experience underscores the importance of perseverance and self-advocacy in the face of systemic challenges.
When asked what advice he’d give his younger self, Michael emphasizes the importance of relationships and perseverance:
“Value relationships above all else. Life’s voyage is akin to an elaborate timepiece, each interaction a vital cog in the grand design of success… Echoing the resilient spirit of Churchill, I would reinforce the creed, ‘Never, never, never give up.’”
For Michael, music and business intertwine. His company’s theme song, ‘GAME PLAN’ by MOSAYK, encapsulates the drive and determination that fuels his business. “It’s my musical manifesto that echoes our company’s core values and aspirations, a constant source of motivation that reminds me and my team of the journey we’re on,” he explains.
Michael Stewart-Isaacs’ journey from a young music enthusiast to a successful CEO exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurial education and mentorship.
As we look to the future, we’re inspired by Michael’s words:
“Entrepreneurship can positively impact the Black community by serving as a powerful motivator for upcoming generations, showcasing the vital role they play in our economy and society.”