Creative Beginnings: From Computer Lab to Creative Direction

In high school, I skipped class to spend hours in the computer lab. There, I discovered graphic design, videography and an appreciation for technology. That was also when I fell out of love with drawing and illustration.

Over time, I broadened my creative focus and started rapping and making beats. A few friends and I formed a group called Figga 4 and performed throughout North and South Carolina. In the late 90s, as a local Charlotte group, we heard our voices as the intro song for Power 98.

Building the Foundation: From The Praktis to Kompleks Creative

While attending North Carolina Central University (NCCU), I co-founded a graphic design studio known as The Praktis. I slowed down with music and focused on building the business while finishing college. In 2006, The Praktis graphic design studio was rebranded as Kompleks Creative, a creative agency focused on building the community and solving business challenges with creative solutions. As principal and creative director, I work closely with our team and clients to develop innovative graphic design, web development and strategic marketing solutions.

Community Leadership & Civic Engagement

My community has always been important to me. I co-founded the nonprofit Black Wall Street to diversify entrepreneurship in Durham, NC. Currently, I serve as the chair of the Board of Directors of the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, on the President’s Advisory Committee on Institutional History at Duke University, on the Regional Advisory Board for the National Society of Black Engineers and on the Triangle Advisory Board for Full Frame Film Festival.

I have previously served on the Board of Visitors for NCCU’s College of Arts and Sciences, as co-chair of the Mayor’s Bond Advisory Committee (2019 $95 Million Housing Bond Referendum) and on the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club of Durham and Orange Counties.

Educator, Mentor & Advocate for the Next Generation

I love teaching and educating, and mentoring is another way I serve the community. I’ve taught graphic design at the Hussman School of Journalism and Media at UNC-Chapel Hill and web design and development at NCCU. I’ve also spoken at North Carolina State University, Elon University, and Duke University, as well as at high schools such as KIPP Durham College Prep School, the North Carolina School of Science and Math, and the Henderson County Public School System.