Le’Bryan Patterson has recently joined the RISE Collaborative team, stepping into the role of RISE Business Navigator through a partnership with Patrick & Henry Community College. We spoke to Le’Bryan about his new position, its importance to him, the entrepreneurs he’ll be supporting, and the impact on the Southern Virginia region.
Read on to learn more about Le’Bryan and his vision for the program!
Tell us about the role – what do you do, what are your goals and responsibilities?
The RISE Community Business Navigator role involves recruiting and networking with potential and current entrepreneurs. We provide startup programs, growth initiatives, and small business support services to foster business success. My goal as the RISE Community Business Navigator is to become well-acquainted with our resources and effectively share them while networking. I aim to connect businesses with resources that align their purpose with their future goals. Engaging with people to understand their needs and offering appropriate resources for our community and region is a key responsibility.
Tell us about your background and previous experiences that have led and prepared you for this position.
I am an accomplished young professional with an extensive background in business marketing, management, sales, leadership, and education. With 12 years of experience in business consulting and entrepreneurship, I am well-versed in cold calling, recruiting, training and development, customer service, networking, leadership, and interpersonal skills. I have a strong track record in business planning, marketing strategies, and vendor relationship management. My tenure in the education sector allowed me to integrate my business expertise into classroom instruction. As an entrepreneur and business consultant, I have mentored numerous entrepreneurs from startup phases to business expansion, which has thoroughly prepared me for the Rise Community Business Navigator position.
What attracted you to this role?
Since I was child, my father was an entrepreneur. I have always been around business. My dad raised cattle. I remember quite well all the hands-on labor that went into making sure they brought the most at the market and this is where I got my blue-collar work ethic. He also started a trailer park with fourteen spaces. I remember quite well all the hands-on labor it took to make sure tenants were satisfied and this is where I learned the administrative side of business. All my life I have been around business, so I decided to pursue a business degrees to be a resource for my family. I was immediately attracted to this role because it gives me the opportunity to exercise my passion for business, while helping those in our community and region. I was also attracted to the role because I know every day will be different and it will be rewarding to help those bring their dream of owning their own business to reality.
What are you most excited about in this new role?
I am most excited about the culture at Patrick & Henry Community College, where I have experienced a warm and supportive environment. The IDEA Center’s offerings to help community members start and grow their businesses are particularly exciting. Engaging with our partners and familiarizing myself with the diverse resources available to our community and region is also thrilling. I feel privileged to be part of a program dedicated to giving back.
What is your vision for entrepreneurship in our region?
My vision for entrepreneurship in our region involves fostering the creation and growth of businesses. We aim to provide comprehensive support services that guide entrepreneurs towards success. Our program’s mission is to increase the number of businesses and jobs in our region, thereby contributing to economic development.
How do you plan to engage with the entrepreneurial community in southern Virginia?
To engage with the entrepreneurial community in Southern Virginia, I will leverage social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, in addition to collaborating with our partners. These platforms will be used to highlight our programs and share success stories. Word of mouth and community partnerships will also play a significant role in spreading awareness about our services. I will actively participate in community events to meet and network with business owners.
What does success look like in this role?
Success in this role means ensuring our program is a valuable resource for the community and region. It involves connecting and creating as many businesses as possible while meeting our program deliverables to maintain the availability of these resources.
How can entrepreneurs and small business owners in our region get in touch with you?
Want to get in touch with Le'Bryan?
Send him an email. He would love to connect!
What message would you like to send to current and aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners in Southern Virginia?
The message I would like to send to current and aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners in Southern Virginia is take accountability for what you do not “KNOW” and ask. We offer a comprehensive suite of services to guide you towards success. Utilize our programs and resources—“we are here to help.”