Lamont Stanley
CEO and Founder
KLS Direct Marketing Inc.
and Atlanta’s Black Family Expo LLC
The first annual Atlanta Black Family Expo will be held Nov. 9, 2013, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis. This historic expo brings African American families and individuals together to experience seminars, entertainment and business opportunities. With the help of three television stations and three radio stations promoting this event, there will be 20,000 plus African Americans celebrating the enduring strengths and traditional values of the African American Family.
“There has been an expo focusing on African American women for over 20 years, which is great — but the African American woman is only part of the African American family,” he says.
The Atlanta Black Family Expo will focus on developing and growing the African American family, which is going to consist of seminars and a lot of fun, including a performance by Angie Stone and appearances by Cynthia Bailey, Syleena Johnson, Darrin Henson and more.
Read what Stanley has to say.
How did you arrive at this career choice?
I wanted to make a mark and do something different in the industry.
Was it a deliberate decision or a gradual and natural evolution?
I’ve always been a unique and creative person, so this came naturally.
What separates you from others in your field?
I’m proud of being in the Marketing industry since 1998 as the first African American in the country to start direct marketing.
What is unique to the experience that you create?
Driving to Atlanta with $200 in my pocket with the goal to start my own marketing company, I noticed that the Industry in Atlanta needed something different for the Black Family as a whole.
For those considering entering this arena, find a company that you have an interest in and learn from experience what you can before stepping out on your own.
How do you stay at the leading edge of your craft?
A lot of prayer and hard work, sacrifice.
Do you think that there are any widely held misconceptions about what you do? If so, what are they and how do you work to dispel them?
People have the misconception that things have come easy for me. They are witness to the success ie: the TV, Radio and print interviews and event etc. but were not a part of the hard work that came into getting here. Being an AA male, the marketing industry can be a challenge
How do you map out your goals?
I keep people around me that are smarter than me, and assure I have a great team How do you measure your success? I measure this by evaluating that I’m moving in gods direction
Who do you consider to be your peers in your field?
I started as the first African American direct mail company in the country. I try to be the best I can be. I highly credit Liquid Soul Media as top in this field.
Name two of your top role models: one from your industry.
The late John Johnson, fought against the odds with Ebony Magazine and one from outside of it. My late father Charles Stanley Sr. he was one of the first African Americans to become a licensed master plumber. I watched him go to school and work hard for his achievements
Name three books, works, performances or exhibits that changed how you view life, yourself or both.
Book: A Set Back Is a Set Up for a Comeback, the Bible. The death of my father completely changed how I viewed life and my relentless pursuit to pave my way in the marketplace.
Why do you consider continued learning important?
To stay on top of your game. Things change so rapidly you have to stay current for growth, or get left behind.
What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success? Philippian 4:13 “I can do all things through God who strengthens Me”
What role does technology play in your day-to-day life? How do you utilize it?
Technology changes so rapidly, I’m learning each day.
What software, app or other technological innovation has made the biggest difference in your life and/or career?
Software called ACT. It helps keep all your contact information intact.
Please define your personal brand.
Reading my Scriptures and meditation … my way of life to help keep me balanced.
What is your favorite vacation destination and why?
Grand Canyon, I really like nature, hiking, peace and being one with God.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
Racism
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would not change anything; if anything was removed it would not help me become the person I am today.
What does it take to be iconic?
Unique, different and relentless
In your estimation, who has achieved that status?
Barack Obama. Dealing with all the hurdles and challenges.
For more information, please visit AtlantaBlackFamilyExpo.com.
