Name: Rahim Thompson
Age: 39
Profession: Gro Houngan at Le Peristyle Haitian Sanctuary, and Founder/Organizer of The Chosen League
One Word That Describes You: Dedicated
What does being one of the BEMM 100 Ambassadors mean to you?
To me to be considered BEMM 100 Men of Distinction is an honor, because it represents what a man is supposed to be—the protector and provider of his family and a servant to the community.
What are some examples of how you turned struggle into success?
When I began The Chosen League, my apartment had just been robbed and I was in between housing. Outside of two local sponsors and my paycheck from my job, I didn’t have that much financial support. Despite our very humble beginnings, we have gone on to gain corporate sponsorships that cover all the expenses of the league along with my being able to pursue the priesthood at my sanctuary.
What is an important quality you look for in your relationships with others?
I look for honesty in relationships. Without honesty, relationships can’t elevate and prosper. You can’t have loyalty, discipline, and ambition without honesty.
What are some immediate projects you are working on?
The Chosen League is entering its fifteenth summer beginning Friday, June 17. We also have the Red Bull Reign three-on-three tourney on June eleventh and the erection of the third Le Peristyle Haitian Sanctuary in November of this year.
What is the best advice you ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received came from the book As a Man Thinketh by James Allen.
What is some advice you have for other men who want to make a difference?
Never compromise your principles and integrity.
What is some advice you have for other men who want to make a difference?
To make a difference, you have to start with yourself. Be honest with what your shortcomings are and deal with them. When you enter into the world and you see problems, you can’t just speak on them; you must also have a solution or plan to help make the situation become better.
How do you prep for an important business meeting and/or event?
I’m very organized. So, I make sure I have all products and details sorted into their respective groups, and I have a minute-by-minute run of show.
As a busy Modern Man, how do you unwind on vacation? Share a story about your best vacation.
I enjoy taking cruises on Royal Caribbean with my wife and children to unwind. I enjoy taking them to amusement parks such as Disney, Sesame Place, Sahara Sams, and Chuck-E-Cheese.
My best vacation was for my wedding anniversary. My wife thought we were going to Miami for a few days, and I had her convinced her that we had to fly into Fort Lauderdale because it was cheaper. I also told her we had to get a taxi to take us to our car service (lol)! When we got in the cab, it began taking us towards the docks, and she was like, “What the heck is this!?” I said, “Surprise! We are taking a cruise.” She was so excited.
If you could travel and stay anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
This is a great question. I would just like to find a nice, remote island surrounded by clear water and a cool breeze.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Like I said before, it’s a honor for this distinction and I hope my testimony inspires other men.
It’s our normal to be extraordinary. Follow @blackenterprise and join the BE Modern Man conversation using #BEModernMan.
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