In the past, video games and those who play them were often viewed as a waste of time with little career trajectory, but in the year 2023, a significant shift has occurred. Now, many of those same people have created countless opportunities to develop skills and generate wealth for years to come. Essential skills such as video production, editing, voice acting, and several others are being incorporated into video games, and it has created a need for skilled individuals from all walks of life to fill roles and create unique opportunities.
In the heart of Detroit, Markita Richardson, Tyrell Slappey, and Terrence Crowell are the owners of Round 1 Gaming Lab, a mobile gaming trailer that contains the latest video games, consoles, and an incredible story on how following your passions can lead to a successful and relatable business.
The story of Round 1 Gaming began years ago when Slappey rented a gaming trailer for his then stepson’s birthday party combined with his desire to be fulfilled in the workplace. Initially, he was unimpressed by the trailer until he walked inside it for the first time, and in his words “When I stepped foot in there it just made sense,” he said. This realization caused him to create “One Up Gaming Lab” with a high school friend. Unfortunately, there were issues that caused this business to not work, however, this set the scene for what we know today as “Round 1 Gaming”.
When “One Up Gaming Lab” didn’t work out, Slappey found himself at church, and on this particular day, the minister gave a sermon that said: “That business you lost, someone is going to call you in the next few days, and they will help you start that business.” As chance, or God, Slappey said, would have it, the next day he received a call from Crowell his current business partner.
Since that day Slappey and Crowell have done amazing things with Round 1 Gaming being featured on Detroit’s Channel 7, Channel 4, and they have won ClickOnDetroit’s “Best Amusement Center in Metro Detroit” two years in a row. Still, yet another one of their most important missions is to inspire the youth and Black children to let them know careers in gaming are possible.
Allowing children and even older people to see individuals who look like them in leadership roles is important, and in the growing space of video games, it is essential. African Americans have a history of experiencing negative stereotypes in business, but both Crowell and Slappey want children and others to know that despite the stereotypes you can accomplish your goals.
The video game industry is expanding every single day, and Black people can seize this opportunity like never before. Platforms like YouTube and Twitch provide a space for Black creators to showcase their gaming talent and bring a fresh, diverse perspective. Crowell and Slappey are breaking stereotypes and proving that no matter what challenges we face, pursuing our dreams fearlessly is the key to success.
And as we enter the fall season, let’s remember to encourage and support the gamers in our lives. Who knows? They might surprise us all and build an incredible business that will thrive for years to come.
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