NORFOLK, VIRGINIA – Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, founder of The Village Market, is on a mission to redefine success. In her latest book, No One is Self-Made, she challenges the myth of individualism, emphasizing that true success is built through community, mentorship, and reinvestment.
Hallmon, a serial social entrepreneur, has spent years creating opportunities for Black entrepreneurs to grow and thrive. Her work is a testament to the power of collective effort, and her book serves as a blueprint for anyone looking to build sustainable success.
The Myth of Individualism: Why Community Matters
Dr. Hallmon believes the idea of being “self-made” is a myth. “No one achieves success alone,” she says. “Our power lies in our ability to come together.”
Studies show that 72% of entrepreneurs face burnout, often due to the pressure of going it alone. Hallmon argues that this mindset goes against Black cultural values. “Community has always been our foundation,” she explains. “From the civil rights movement to today, our achievements have always been collective.”
Her book, No One is Self-Made, blends historical references with modern examples of Black entrepreneurs thriving through collaboration. “It’s about shifting our mindset back to collective and coalition building,” she adds.
Building a Village: More Than Just Networking
For Dr. Hallmon, building a community—or a “village”—is about more than just networking. “It’s about setting good intentions,” she says. “You have to be clear on why you want community and who you want to be in community with.”
She emphasizes the importance of showing up consistently. “It’s not about saying yes to every event,” she explains. “It’s about choosing what aligns with your values and nurturing those relationships over time.”
Hallmon also stresses the importance of giving back. “Check in on people, even if it doesn’t directly benefit you,” she advises. “That’s what builds real social currency.”
The Role of Mentorship and Reinvestment
Mentorship plays a crucial role in Hallmon’s vision of success. “Having people who believe in your vision is essential,” she says. “But it’s also about giving back to the next generation.”
Through The Village Market, Hallmon has created a platform for Black entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and grow. “We’re not just building businesses,” she says. “We’re building ecosystems that sustain entire communities.”
Reinvestment is another key component. “When we reinvest in our communities, we create opportunities for everyone to thrive,” she explains. “It’s about creating a cycle of success that benefits us all.”
A Call to Action: Show Up and Build Together
Dr. Hallmon’s message is clear: success is a team effort. “No one is truly self-made,” she says. “We all need each other to achieve our goals.”
Her book and work with The Village Market are a call to action for Black entrepreneurs to come together, support one another, and reinvest in their communities. “When we build together, we create something that lasts,” she concludes.
