Celebrating black history month

Hear from Scenthound VP of Franchise Development, Tony Nicholson as he shares what this month means to him, the Black leaders who inspire him, and more.

Q: What does Black History Month mean to you?

A: In my mind, there are two things to consider; first, I think having Black History Month is a nice gesture & I believe that when it was created, the best intentions were in mind. In reality, I'd love for Black Excellence (not or never to be confused with Black superiority or power) to no longer exist in a silo or bubble, but at some point be the norm for African Americans in the United States. The concept of "Black Excellence", is not that Black people are any better than any other race, it just means that we're striving to be seen as equals to every other race that's contributing to society, versus historical norms that we're inferior or a sub-culture. If this is done accurately, there will not be a need for Black History Month, just consistent, Black Excellence. Second, as it relates to the history of Black people in America, similar to Black Excellence, the contributions of Black people in America, should just be part of American History, with the assumption that all of the contributions Black people have made are told in whole vs altered, filtered or outright omitted. 

Q: Who are the Black leaders—past or present—who have inspired you the most?

A: I think like most black people living in America, we can appreciate those who have come before us (or trailblazing as we speak) who have carved out a new path or disrupted the norm. I think of people like MLK, great inventors of the past like Madam CJ Walker, George Washington Carver, Booker T Washington, Garrett Morgan, to leaders like Obama, trailblazers like Oprah, business icons like Robert F Smith, Tyler Perry, Michael Jordan, Junior Bridgeman, etc. Whereas in reality, as much as I recognize what all of those great people I have just listed have done, I truly appreciate the local heroes; community advocates, pastors, mentors, leaders who are open to mentoring those who have not been as fortunate or for those who didn't have the luxury of growing up with a father-figure, two parent/income home. Those are the real leaders I look up to & respect. 

Q: What advice would you give to young Black professionals navigating leadership roles?

A: Find a mentor or best case, find multiple mentors you can pull from. Once you have benefited from a mentor(s), become a mentor - rinse & repeat. Give back, be vulnerable, "leave the campground in a better position than how you found it".

Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your work?

A: Similar to what I stated earlier, guys like me are on a constant quest to prove we belong & that we deserve & have earned a seat at the table. From there, I want to pass on a legacy of success to my kids & to those I'm fortunate enough to mentor & impact. Plus, I'm just naturally driven & "hungry" in life.

Q: Did you always see yourself in this industry, or did your career path take unexpected turns?

A: I was fortunate to have the opportunity to become a franchisee first (Anytime Fitness) which led to ultimately getting involved with the sales, management & development side of the business. I didn't pick this industry, in reality, it selected me, and I'm forever grateful for it.