Frederick Walker is an entrepreneur who has built a diverse portfolio. He graduated in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Oakland University. He gained experience in the technology field working for Fortune 500 Company Ernst & Young. After Ernst & Young Walker decided to make his pastime of rehabbing homes into a major career change. In 2006, he moved to California to work for K & C Ventures, a residential and commercial builder. In 2009, he returned to Michigan as Marketing & Brand Manager for a retail start-up company, Shoe Envy; he re-branded the company as Pink Pumpand helped it grow to four locations. He later went on to create a spin-off of the brand, P2 by Pink Pump.
Walker then partnered with a group of entrepreneurs and started Two/Eighteen by Burn Rubber, a men’s lifestyle store. Two/Eighteen opened its doors to rave reviews in September 2012. The opening of Two/Eighteen was documented in a reality TV series titled “Detroit Rubber” produced by rapper and Detroit native Eminem.
Growing up in the poverty stricken city of Flint, Michigan, Walker speaks from experience. “Creating something from nothing” has been Walker’s creed, and he uses his unique life experiences and success to help mentor and teach inner city kids. Walker understands the importance of giving back and setting an example for young African American men who lack positive role models. He volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Detroit.
Walker’s work with youth inspired him to start The Dope Project (TDP). Dope is an acronym for “Development of Positive Energy.” TDP is a program that allows kids to interact with business leaders and professionals in the workplace. It also includes fun workshops and internships led by young successful business leaders to instill life, entrepreneurial and leadership skills.
Walker started a five-week workshop in Flint with a group of six teenagers from Flint. He self-funded the entire program so it would be free for the teens. Now comes the Detroit version 2.0 that will be free for Teens 9th at The Music Hall Center for The Performing Arts beginning Sunday, Jul7 27 at 3:00 pm, and the next three Sunday’s and finishing on Thursday, August 21. The “guest teachers” will be young business owners and professional who are “cool’ and more relatable to the kids. Companies such as Hershel Backpack, McDonald’s, Meijer and Vita-min Water will sponsor prizes. Rolling Out is a media partner working to help get the word out for this great experience.
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