From growing a six-million-dollar corporation to investing in start-up companies on Shark Tank, Daymond John has made a career out of helping underdogs find success. Known for his determination and work ethic, he uses his time to inspire others to build their own businesses and create their own versions of success. Learn more about his personal success story in this profile on Daymond John.
Early Life
Raised in Queens during the 1970s, John was an only child in a single-parent household. Since his mother was often working several jobs to make ends meet, John used his time to pursue his interest in fashion. When he was in high school, John participated in a program that allowed him to work while also attending school full time. This program helped him develop the work ethic we know him for today.
FUBU
In 1992, John took his aspirations one step further by designing hats to sell at nearby events. Seeing that there was potential for his idea, John created his logo and began designing his own lines of jerseys, sweatshirts, and t-shirts. Naming his business FUBU, or “For Us, By Us,” his goal was to create a clothing line that marketed exclusively to young African Americans. Over the years, FUBU’s product lines have become more diverse, including lines of sportswear and jeans. This consistent growth since the company’s founding has solidified John’s status as one of the most successful fashion icons of his generation.
The Shark
In 2009, John starred as a co-host on the television show Shark Tank. This sparked the beginning of his work as an angel investor for a variety of start-ups over the years. Nicknamed “The Shark” for his activism, he took the additional step to establish The Shark Group as a way to put other entrepreneurs in contact with additional resources. Additionally, John is a motivational speaker, best-selling author, and even a Presidential Ambassador for Global Entrepreneurship.