Many people dedicate their lives to being self-employed and thriving through innovative ideas. However, what does it really take to succeed and stand out?
Thirty-nine-year-old Rashaan Harris, AKA “Dizzy Brown,” thinks outside the box when it comes to ways to contribute to his community. Whether he is listening to community members as a liaison for the Opportunity Hub (a non-profit organization he works for) or building the next best event to help the community shine, he is constantly implementing ways to help his neighbors live a better quality of life. Born and raised in Spring Creek Towers in Brooklyn, N. Y., formerly known as Starrett City, Brown credits his hometown with inspiring him.
“When I was little, my mom started calling me Dizzy because I would often tell her, ‘I feel dizzy’ whenever I did not feel well. She affectionately called me her “Dizzy baby,” and this nickname became a lasting part of my identity. As I grew older, I decided to add Brown to my name to give it more meaning and identity, transforming my childhood nickname into my identity today.”
If you ask him, he attributes his contributions to his parents, Alicia and Roger. Brown was raised by his widowed mother, who was an assistant manager at a shelter in Brownsville, Brooklyn. Unfortunately, he lost his father, a community activist and professor, at the age of three. Brown explained, “Both my parents had a purpose bigger than themselves, and I carry that same energy today in everything I do. My mother showed me what service looks like, and my father showed me what impact looks like. Together, their examples have inspired everything I do today —from community events to youth programs to business ventures. I’m just continuing their legacy in my own way, using my creativity and platform to help people the same way they did.”
With the help of his community and a team he gathers for each event, Brown organizes impactful affairs that make a difference and inspire others. For Brown, helping the community is not just an endeavor; it is a personal commitment. “I am my community,” he states. The same people who nurtured him are the ones to whom he strives to give back. He continues, “This isn’t just about throwing events; it’s about building a legacy and perpetuating a cycle of support that enriches lives.”
Brown has been instrumental in organizing events that foster community spirit and togetherness. Along with the help of the Opportunity Hub, some notable events include “Can You Hear Me Now, a wellness initiative providing free hearing screenings and health education, which was shown on News 12 Brooklyn.
The Back vs. Forth Basketball Game is a neighborhood tradition that started decades ago and is kept alive through friendly competition and camaraderie. “Holiday Photoshoot,” where families come together to capture joyful memories. This free community event aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to create lasting holiday memories in a supportive environment. Lastly, “Dad’s Day Pass Out” celebrated local fathers with giveaways, appreciation, and recognition of the vital roles that they play in the lives of their children and loved ones. As a father, this event was dear to his heart.
Brown views entrepreneurship as a means of ownership, focusing on transforming ideas into reality and creating opportunities. He believes that the essence of entrepreneurship lies in uplifting those around you, not just in personal gain. He challenges the stigma associated with low-income communities, asserting, “We’re not just Section 8; we’re talented, smart, and resilient.” His message encourages recognition of the potential within every community. For young Black men, Brown aims to be a consistent leader, emphasizing responsibility and genuineness. “I’m not perfect, but I show up — for my son, for my people, for my business,” he states, hoping to inspire others. He believes in leading with humanity, saying, “People remember how you treat them.” He aims to build genuine community connections and bridge these gaps. Ultimately, Brown is purpose-driven: “Everything I do — from events to ideas — has a mission. I’m not chasing fame; I’m building a legacy.” His motto, “Keep it real, build it right, and never stop giving back,” guides his journey and fosters a positive impact on the world.
Brown views entrepreneurship as a means of ownership, focusing on transforming ideas into reality and creating opportunities. He believes that the essence of entrepreneurship lies in uplifting those around you, not just in personal gain. He challenges the stigma associated with low-income communities, asserting, “We’re not just Section 8; we’re talented, smart, and resilient.” His message encourages recognition of the potential within every community. For young Black men, Brown aims to be a consistent leader, emphasizing responsibility and genuineness. “I’m not perfect, but I show up — for my son, for my people, for my business,” he states, hoping to inspire others. He believes in leading with humanity, saying, “People remember how you treat them.” He aims to build genuine community connections and bridge these gaps. Ultimately, Brown is purpose-driven: “Everything I do — from events to ideas — has a mission. I’m not chasing fame; I’m building a legacy.” His motto, “Keep it real, build it right, and never stop giving back,” guides his journey and fosters a positive impact on the world.
To learn more about Dizzy, follow him on Instagram: @dizzybrown718