Aurum, the Latin word for gold, is most notably symbolized as "Au" in the scientific periodic table, but it takes on a different meaning at The Plutocrats Club. It represents the best… the few who inspire, create, and articulate vision for the rest of us. Often imitated, they’ve dedicated their careers to putting other brands, people, and organizations in the spotlight, by creating the most relevant platforms to do so.
Should you find yourself in Dallas, it would behoove you to connect with these individuals as they are at the forefront of the professional renaissance taking place in the city. Make no mistake, this isn’t a popularity contest. The pioneers you see below were selected using four distinct criteria.
Scope of Impact
Distinguished Achievement
Consistency & Sustainability
Primary Research
As we experience a new decade of black history, join us in recognizing the magnates who’ve worked extremely hard to make the future that much brighter for all of us.
#25 Adrian Killebrew Jr.
“Stop comparing yourself to others. You are not supposed to be like anyone else. You are you. You are the only one who can be you. Your perspectives, gifts and value are exclusively yours. You are a unique expression of God. Revel in it! If you want something to measure yourself by, compare how you were yesterday to how you are today, and be kind.” - Adrian Killebrew Jr.
Adrian is a savvy professional whose ability to connect others and build relationships has allowed organizations to establish meaningful business connections nationally. Skilled in Business Development, Non-profit Management, Strategic Planning, Leadership, Career Development, and Sales Account Management, Adrian is a powerhouse in the DFW area.
Connect For
Business Opportunities
Professional Development
Sales Consulting / Coaching
#24 Jasmine Armstrong
“Live for today, not for tomorrow!” - Jasmine Armstrong
Woman of God. Lover of Christ. Resident of Dallas. Jasmine is a class act of few words when it comes to describing herself, but her actions speak much louder as a professional speech pathologist and connector in Dallas.
Connect For
Spiritual Opportunities
Relationship Development
Speech Consulting / Coaching
#23 Joseph Abrahams
"As you invest in us, we invest in you bringing forth excellence within you."
- Joseph Abrahams
Joseph has the uncanny ability to solve complex issues by taking responsibility for planning, procurement and execution of projects. He provides leadership in any undertaking that has a defined scope, start, and finish. In addition to that he’s all about advocacy for DFW professionals and entrepreneurs.
Connect For
Business Opportunities
Speaking Engagements
Project Management
#22 Brandon Moore
“I’m proud of a lot of people. I don’t always comment or tell people and I need to work on that but I’m just really happy to see people out here achieving. Even if they haven’t reached their exact goal I see so much progress out there and it really puts a smile on my face.” - Brandon Moore
Brandon leverages his diverse mix of experience consulting small businesses in multiple industries to help companies build their presence on social media. On the other side of that Brandon specializes in building communities to connect people in specific demographics. This allows him to tap into markets and create opportunities for businesses targeting thought leaders.
Connect For
Social Opportunities
Community Development
Brand Consulting / Representation
#21 Tyrell Patterson / Jeremiah Egbele
Tyrell Patterson - below
“I’m not in charge, I don’t have to MAKE things happen, my life isn’t mine, my wife, my family my money my time it is allll Gods. I’m simply going to take my hands off and manage what he gave me. He owns it, not me. 2020 is the year it all makes sense and the vision is implemented. It’s time to run at the pace of obedience and watch God blow our minds” - Tyrell Patterson
Tyrell is a contagious communicator and financial specialist who provides clients, business owners, and entrepreneurs with strategies and tools to achieve their financial goals; chiefly by delivering data analysis to communicate intended outcomes and most efficient methods to reach them. His clients understand how to practically employ strategies and execute those processes that bring about maximum returns on energy, time, and finances.
Connect For
Spiritual Opportunities
Leadership Development & Community Cultivation
Financial Counseling
Jeremiah Egbele - below
“Mentors are like having cheat codes to life.” - Jeremiah Egbele
Creative Entrepreneur. Fashion Icon. Well Traveled. Those are just some of the words that describe Jeremiah the trendsetter and Sharepoint Systems Specialist. When he is not curating style he’s building walks of faith with intentionality.
Connect For
Spiritual Opportunities
Fashion, Culture, & Community Cultivation
IT Consulting
#20 Yasmine Lockett
“The only way to improve is to keep moving” - Yasmine Lockett
Yasmine is a creative and critical thinker who thrives on the big ideas. Not only is she an advocate for possibilities, but she also encourages those around her to find unshakeable joy. She’s dedicated close to a decade in support of DFW youth through innovative programs; with the goal of lessening the burdens that society often places on them.
Connect For
Education Opportunities
Program Development / Administration
Early Childhood Consulting
#19 Joshua Allen
”I told my high school band director I wanted to run a record label when I grew up. It’s pretty dope how Gods timing works.” - Joshua Allen
Joshua is an experienced graphic designer with a demonstrated history of working in the e-learning industry. Skilled in Non-profit Organizations, Retail, Sales, Event Management, and Media Relations, he has a passion for developing artists and musicians in the DFW area and has built a platform to do just that.
Connect For
Music Opportunities
Artist Development
Media Consulting
#18 Andrea Miles
“Karma is real and not to be played with.” - Andrea Miles
Andrea is a private practice attorney in Dallas County. She is very active in her community offering young professionals a chance to network and receive mentoring from some of the most talented and creative professionals in Dallas through hosted seminar settings. Andrea also mentors young girls, coaching them while teaching them leadership skills through sports.
Connect For
Business Opportunities
Speaking Engagements
Legal Consulting
#17 Sedrick Wall Jr.
“Sometimes you just have to smile in the face of an enemy.” - Sedrick Wall Jr.
Sedrick has over 10 years experience helping others achieve their dreams. He believes everyone has a story to tell and he is a conduit between their dreams and reality. He works as an Account Manager analyzing data, developing business strategies, and consulting on how to grow businesses while also owning his own custom suiting clothier.
Connect For
Philanthropic Opportunities
Community Development
Fashion & Systems Consulting
#16 Shaun Balkum
“Those who do not take risks will never really know how far they can go will they? This is why I continue to push the boundaries I want to challenge how far I can go and inspire change.” - Shaun Balkum
Shaun is a high fashion model and actor that has worked with brands all across the globe. His passion for creating his own lane in the DFW fashion scene has led him to becoming a modeling coach as well, providing training services to aspiring models and enlightening parents about the industry.
Connect For
High-Fashion Opportunities
Brand Development / Representation
Model Coaching
#15 Maurice Sanford
“Never Assume That Quiet Is Weak & Loud Is Strong.” - Maurice Sanford
Maurice is a highly sought after videographer and photographer who has built one of the largest client bases in DFW. His visual and editing skills have been sought after by corporations and artists alike.
Connect For
Media Opportunities
Brand Development / Cultivation
Videography & Photography Consulting
#14 Chloe Airhart
“God created you to shine, share His good news, bless those who don’t bless you, and learn to be joyful through the ups and downs that He places in your path. ” - Chloe Airhart
Chloe is a seasoned account executive that loves meeting new people and building relationships. Her work ethic is guided by vibrant creativity, moral values, and care for humankind. When she is not overseeing valuable client accounts she is providing styling advice and building faith networks.
Connect For
Spiritual Opportunities
Personal Branding & Fashion Cultivation
Account Management & Business Development Consulting
#13 Bola Ibidapo
“Faith + Consistency= New Heights. Build something that’s worth sharing. Build something that leaves impact. Watch God do the rest.” - Bola Ibidapo
Bola is the founder of two non-profits, one provides travel grants and passports to students studying or volunteering abroad and the other instills leadership and entrepreneurial development in young girls. As an advocate for student empowerment she gives rousing speeches on her insights and ideas regarding the significance of our youth.
Connect For
Philanthropic Opportunities
Non-profit & Youth Programs Cultivation
Diversity, Inclusion, & Empowerment Consulting
#12 Noble Madu Jr.
“Small acts, multiplied by many people, can transform the world.” - Noble Madu Jr.
Noble is an investing and lending associate with a passion for service and development. He’s established several organizations fostering community involvement, professional development, and environmental impact. As a host of networking workshops and volunteer events he continually builds community and synergy between thought leaders and their constituents.
Connect For
Business Opportunities
STEM & Community Development
Financial Consulting
#11 Amber Williams
“Find beauty within an imperfect process.” - Amber Williams
Amber is private chef and caterer that has built an empire to educate and empower Millennials to not be afraid of the kitchen, create jobs, and skill-share. As a huge advocate for entrepreneurship, she is known for reaching back and helping others through doors that she’s worked hard to open.
Connect For
Social Opportunities
Community Cultivation
Culinary Consulting
#10 Erik Grayson / Attah Armand Essien
Erik Grayson - below
“Market Yourself. Brand Yourself. Promote Yourself. Network Yourself. Invest in Yourself.” - Erik Grayson
Erik is a brand builder and business consultant that controls the pulse of the Dallas event scene. His collective of social events, apparel and co-working spaces have made him a go to for connections, networking, and celebrations.
Connect For
Social Opportunities
Social & Community Development
Event Planning / Consulting
Attah Armand Essien - below
“Thank You God for another day, another week, another opportunity!” - Attah Armand Essien
Attah is the man to know in Dallas, and an expert in utilizing social media marketing and advertising, with a proven ability to generate inbound traffic, develop a brand and build awareness, as well as cultivate leads and sales. As an event director and cultural ambassador of DFW, he gives professionals and networkers alike unprecedented access to the Dallas social scene and greater community.
Connect For
Social Opportunities
Social & Community Development
Event Planning / Consulting
#9 Kiera Tate / Gabriel Sheffield
Kiera Tate - below
“God made no mistake when he made you exactly the way he did. God made no mistake when he showed you that dream, when he gave you those friends and that job and those kids and that family. So go out there and glow Saint.” - Kiera Tate
Kiera is an architectural designer with extensive experience in graphic design and front end development. She is a connector of talents, people, and ideas leading by example as a contemporary renaissance woman in the truest sense.
Connect for
Business Opportunities
Professional & Community Cultivation
Creative Design / Consulting
Gabriel Sheffield - below
“If you think about disaster, you will get it. Brood about death and you hasten your demise. Think positively and masterfully, with confidence and faith, and life becomes more secure, more fraught with action, richer in achievement and experience.” - Gabriel Sheffield
Gabriel is a vibrations creator with a social consciousness and he embodies this with every experience he produces. Whether it be photography or music curation, he captures moments and remixes them to suit the mood of his audience.
Connect For
Business Opportunities
Brand & Community Cultivation
Event Production / Consulting
#8 Lauren McMillan
“Cover the earth before it covers you.” - Lauren McMillan
Lauren is an innovative public relations professional with an extensive creative background. She specializes in strategic communications, brand architecture, media relations, copywriting and graphic design, pioneering creative ventures designed to bring exposure and promotion to entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Connect For
Business Opportunities
Brand, Community & Culture Cultivation
Creative Design & Marketing Consulting
#7 Kurtis Graham
“If you never ask the answer will always be no.” - Kurtis Graham
Kurtis strives to inspire and support the young, fresh and talented artists and entrepreneurs of today. He seeks to showcase those in the community who are making their dreams come true by knocking down barriers and stereotypes in hopes of raising awareness, building organizations, and diversifying the entertainment community.
Connect For
Social Opportunities
Brand, Community & Culture Development
Media Consulting
#6 Scottie Smith II
“The road to success is not straight. There is a curve called Failure, a loop called Confusion, speed bumps called Friends, red lights called Enemies, caution lights called Family. You will have flats called Jobs. But, if you have a spare called Determination, an engine called Perseverance, insurance called Faith, and a driver called Jesus, you will make it to a place called Success!” - Scottie Smith II
Scottie is a real estate broker, investor, developer and author that has made a lifestyle out of sharing his experienced insight in realty and business. He’s passionate about entrepreneurship, providing spaces, finances and education to facilitate the next generation of professionals who are looking to follow in his footsteps.
Connect For
Business Opportunities
Community & Professional Development
Real Estate Consulting
#5 Benjamin Vann
“Work your plan.” - Benjamin Vann
Benjamin is an award winning social entrepreneur, venture strategist, speaker, and economic justice advocate. Benjamin is an expert in impact investing, combining grass root experiences with community organization, civic engagement, workforce empowerment, and non-profit board governance to bring DFW professionals access to capital unlike never before.
Connect For
Business Opportunities
Community & Professional Development
Investment & Financial Consulting
#4 Larry Yarrell
“Sometimes it's as simple as changing or challenging the lens with which we use to focus and shape our perspective.” - Larry Yarrell
Larry is an experienced chief operating officer with a demonstrated history of achievement in the marketing and advertising industry. He is a gifted executive coach, public speaker, and project manager who’s built a legacy out of giving young creatives professional experience that’s gone on to define their careers.
Connect For
Business Opportunities
Community & Professional Development
Mentorship & Program Counseling, Media & Sales Consulting
#3 Taylor Toynes
“Looking at my ancestors and elders with my young boys behind me. We the greatest story ever told.” - Taylor Toynes
Taylor is a philanthropist, executive director and civic organizer with a huge heart for humanity. He’s also a certified educator and humanitarian who’s made it his mission to bring resources, knowledge, and tailored support to urban communities. His servanthood has touched thousands of lives and inspired many more.
Connect For
Philanthropic Opportunities
Community, Education, & Youth Development
Non-Profit Consulting
#2 S. Lee Merritt
“Look within yourself and ask what’s your purpose. Plan out your impact. We need you.” - S. Lee Merritt
Lee is one of the most recognized civil attorneys not only in Texas but in the nation as he tackles some of the most high profile cases involving victims of police brutality, hate crimes and corporate discrimination. As an activist, he has championed police reform and community empowerment, by galvanizing conversations surrounding justice, race, and equality.
Connect For
Advocacy Opportunities
Community & Culture Development
Legal Consulting
#1 James Armstrong III
“Everything I am God made me; Everything I have God gave me; All that I know God taught me; Where I am God brought me.” - James Armstrong III
James is a disciple of Christ, man of eminence, seeker of justice, pursuer of excellence, and economic bridge builder. His work in community development is unparalleled as he spearheads initiatives, policies and programs committed to improving the housing, finances, and quality of life of the common wealth of DFW.
Connect For
Advocacy Opportunities
Community & Housing Development
Political & Legislative Consulting
Spiritual Leadership & Development
“To those who facilitate the programs, finances, and environments for dreamers to dream and warriors to fight this is an emphatic thank you. Your efforts are not only noticed, but they are needed to progress our increasingly complex and growing culture. Not much in this life is promised, but you’ve established a personal brand of quality that has transformed from trusted to expected. I can’t speak for those who take it for granted, but it’s a beautiful thing to witness excellence. I hope you’re not getting tired because we are sending many more your way to learn from your example and to follow your footsteps. Cheers to you.”
- David Pailin Jr. - President, TPC