Andre Ambrose is a Brooklyn, NY Native who has dedicated his life to empowering others through coaching, community service, and entrepreneurship. His journey began as a youth basketball coach working alongside NYC’s most dedicated players, coaches, and programs. Next came the opportunity to direct Brooklyn’s most iconic basketball facility “Hoopland”, an experience he credits with helping hone his ability to grow talent, galvanize grassroots initiatives, and harness the energy of NYC.
Basketball has been the springboard for Andre’s business endeavors. The founding of Brooklyn Hoops which later became United Brooklyn has supported hundreds of student athletes in achieving their colligate and career goals. UB’s evolution led to the birth of Empowerment Through Athletics which exists to be a bridge between corporate entities and community initiatives, ensuring the two collaborate collectively and seamlessly. As in all past projects, Ambrose states all projects and partnerships to come will stay true to the theme of spreading love, and empowering people.
Recently, our Mark Williams spoke to Mr. Ambrose and asked him a question that has become a trending topic as of late.
There is NO secret that today’s world is centered around promotion, whether surrounding a person or company, marketing companies has become a necessity in “grabbing” one’s attention. Until recently, many big marketing companies were unable to reach “under served” markets largely due to their lack of resources and diversity within each company. Has the current social climate created an environment where companies are more willing to work with smaller, yet diverse companies in order to target a more inclusive demographic as companies understand the power of previously neglected target groups?.
ANSWER:
Great question, marketing and branding play a major role in our day to day lives without us even realizing how much of an impact they have in our simplest decisions. Some major companies have definitely benefited from being patronized without even attempting to be inclusive of their entire consumer base. However there is definitely a shift occurring, and I’m not sure if we credit social media, the current social climate, or the spike in entrepreneurship. I think that smaller groups, sub cultures, and even demographic areas have started “owning their masters” making it easier for bigger companies to partner up, as well as putting some companies in positions where they have no choice. Take Dapper Dan x Gucci or even Yeezy and his collaborations for example. As we continue to grow i hope to see more of everyone telling and owning their stories, plus connecting with the brands they support. We will have a much happier and even create a healthier ecosystem if that occurs.
Tying our conversation back to sport for a bit. The implementation of NIL makes a very interesting space where athletes can use their platforms, and also new technology like NFT’s, block chain, the metaverse, and web 3 to grow and connect with fans and brands. I can’t wait to be a part of the evolution of this space for it will take opportunities to the next level.
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