We are excited to shine a major spotlight on a group of individuals locally as well as across the country that just make content cool. These men and women are masters of curation; they are our tastemakers. They are the kings and queens of influence and originality and because of that, we call them The Influentials.
ARCHIE NETTLES
Veteran Liaison, Motivational Speaker
His Influence: As a veteran, Archie Nettles is well-versed in the needs and challenges student veterans face. In his current role as Veteran Liaison, he is responsible for understanding and interpreting the needs of a student veteran population of approximately 700 veterans and for cultivating the relationship between veteran students, faculty and administration officials at University of Texas at Dallas.
GameChanger: In a very short period of time, Archie has built a popular motivational speaking platform which assists his mission of becoming a leading expert on youth empowerment. Some of his engagements have included the Steve Harvey Mentoring Camp, National Urban League Conference, Boys and Girls Club Youth Leadership Conference and countless others. In May of this year, Black Enterprise Magazine took notice. The publication launched the “BE Modern Man Initiative”, a movement honoring everyday men of color. Archie was selected and featured in the inaugural launch of 100 diverse men around the country doing exceptional work within their respective communities and industries.
The Biggest Issue Facing African American Professionals Today? The biggest issue facing African American professionals today is the need to become more financially astute. Young professionals are making more money than ever before, but many of us lack the requisite knowledge on how to properly manage it with regards to retirement plans, investments in property and the stock market. It is important that we learn to prepare for the future and be in a position to leave a financial legacy for future generations as opposed to debt.
If someone’s visiting Dallas for the first time, where and what do you recommend they do to really fall in love with the city? Dallas is such an amazing city and there are so many places to visit and sights to see, whether it’s the Dallas Skyline, Klyde Warren Park, or Perot Museum of Science and Nature. There is something for everyone because there is such a variety of activities that the city has to offer. I suggest that a person who is interested in Dallas should set aside time to explore the city to see the great things that it is has to offer. The one place I really love is the Bishop Art’s District because it has a really cool vibe and it is filled with locally owned shops, restaurants and beautifully painted murals that you can see as you walk down Bishop Street. Some of my favorite places you should check out:
- Café Brazil– 24 hour café where you can enjoy the best pancakes and bacon in town.
- Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ, has some of the best BBQ in town. The meat is tender and delicious. I would also suggest ordering a side of Habanero Macaroni and cheese; it will knock your socks off.
- Cigar Art– it is a great place to lounge with friends and enjoy a cigar if interested.
We will be introducing you to new Influencers regularly this fall with the hope that they inspire you to think, be and do.