By Fabiola Jean
Commencing Fall action with a night of male sophistication, Jeff Lindor, Groomed Success’ founder, hosted the second change agents mixer in late September at the Carlton Hotel in Manhattan. Three change agents were recognized for their hard work and dedication in their respective fields. Groomed Success awarded the Change Agent Distinguished Fellow Award to Tyrone Brown, Juan Perez and Councilman Jumaane D. Williams.
“Jumaane’s work in the New York City Council defines what it means to be a strong political leader,” Lindor said. “His willingness to take a stand against policies that are deliberately designed to discriminate against men of color is honorable.”
Williams, who represents the 45th Council District in Brooklyn, was the lead sponsor of the Community Safety Act (CSA). The bill established an independent inspector general for the New York Police Department (NYPD) and created the first enforceable ban against bias-based profiling by the department. The measures were both aimed at ending profiling racial disparities in Stop, Question and Frisk by the NYPD.
“He is certainly a strong voice in our city and we applaud his efforts in helping to ensure that men of color are protected under the law,” Lindor said.
Honorees Brown and Perez also bring change to their communities, while totting an impressive resume of big-name accomplishments. Brown, co-founder and executive director of the Brooklyn United Marching Band, promotes academic support and character development through his organization. He exposes children to prestigious platforms including Carnegie Hall, the Barclays Center, the Lincoln Center and historically black colleges and universities across the country.
While offering marketing strategies to companies such as AT&T, MetroPCS and MoneyGram, Perez finds time to be “heavily involved in his community.” He sits on the board of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, the Greater New York YMCA and The Cave Institute. His grassroots marketing approach has been featured in Inc. Magazine, Black Enterprise, Crain’s, New York Post, and the New York Daily News.
The orchestrated night of events consisted of a silent auction, musical styling’s from a three-piece band, and community vendors such as Pocket Squared NY, Gentleman’s Shop and Awristocrats to name a few.
Lindor started Groomed Success with an aim to help enhance the positive perception of men of color in the community. Groomed Success focuses on hosting gatherings, and highlighting men of color who are well-groomed, accomplished and positive role models in their communities. Lindor does this by conducting professional development workshops aimed to equip men with the tools needed to advance their careers.
“It creates an outlet for entrepreneurs and change seekers to spark innovation, build communities, and change the world.”