Meet El’Haji Bakari

We had the good fortune of connecting with El’Haji Bakari and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi El’Haji, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
The ultimate goal of Echelon Entertainment Services is to build and nurture a network of thriving communities across the nation that provide invaluable opportunities, foster collaboration, and drive elevation for systematically challenged minorities. We aim to create spaces where individuals who have historically been marginalized can come together to connect, grow, and access resources that empower them to reach new heights. Our vision is to break down the barriers that limit potential and create pathways to success by facilitating access to meaningful events, resources, networking opportunities, and education tailored to the needs of these communities. While I recognize that there is no true “end” to my career or mission—because there is always more to learn, more people to connect with, and more lives to impact—my ultimate aspiration is to achieve a global status where I am known as a force for love, unity, and elevation. I want to be recognized not only for the tangible achievements we create through Echelon but for the deeper impact of fostering connection and positive change in the lives of those who need it most. It’s about inspiring others to elevate their own lives and communities, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond just business or success. It’s about creating a legacy of unity, empowerment, and growth that will leave an indelible mark on the world.

What should our readers know about your business?
Echelon Entertainment Services is more than just a concierge agency; we are a dynamic force dedicated to curating unparalleled experiences that reflect the highest standards of quality and sophistication. Our mission is to deliver a level of service that transcends expectations, tailored specifically to each individual’s lifestyle and business needs. What truly sets Echelon apart is our ability to form deep, meaningful connections with our clients. We take the time to understand their unique desires, preferences, and aspirations, allowing us to craft bespoke solutions that meet the elevated standards we promise. We don’t just provide services; we create experiences that resonate and leave a lasting impression.

What I am most proud of, however, is the community we are cultivating—a space where like-minded individuals come together to seek continuous elevation and peace of mind. It’s incredibly fulfilling to connect with people who share a relentless pursuit of excellence, constantly striving for the highest quality in everything they do. These individuals don’t just demand excellence; they live it every day, and being a part of that journey is a privilege.

Building this business hasn’t been easy. The road to success is never smooth, but I’ve come to understand that the challenges we face are simply a reflection of the perseverance needed to succeed in life. What keeps me motivated, especially in the face of obstacles, is a deep-rooted drive and an unwavering determination to keep moving forward. It’s not about avoiding the barriers that come our way—it’s about facing them head-on and pushing through with resilience.

At Echelon, we are committed to promoting constant learning, growth, fun, and unity within our team and our community. We believe that if we can turn our losses into lessons, our lessons into advantages, and our advantages into hard work, we will continue to rise and achieve the greatness that is synonymous with Echelon. This is not just a business; it’s a mindset, a lifestyle, and a collective effort toward achieving the highest levels of success and fulfillment.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Monday – Walk in Piedmont Park & the Belt line then hit Poetry on Peter St open mic.
Tuesday – Taco Tuesday! Going to Rreal tacos & then bar hopping
Wednesday – Coca Cola museum then hit Who Wanna Pho open mic at night time.
Thursday – Explore little 5 points, go to Lenox, Go to Your third Spot
Friday – Aquarium, Atlanta Breakfast Club, Moon Dogs that night
Saturday – Restaurant 10, Festival for the weekend, Go to MJQ & Onyx.
Sunday – Suite Lounge for brunch, Rum Punch for the darty, Edgewood for bar crawling that night.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I want to give the biggest shoutout to my mother. She has been the ultimate example of resilience, patience, and perseverance throughout my life, and I truly can’t put into words how much her strength has shaped who I am today. From a young age, I watched her put in endless work and sacrifice, always pushing forward no matter the obstacles in front of her. Without her constant grind and unwavering support, I don’t think I would’ve been able to grasp the mindset and work ethic required to navigate this world. Her example taught me how to overcome challenges, stay grounded, and keep pushing forward, even when things get tough. Thank you, Mom, for being my rock and showing me what true strength looks like.

Next, I want to give a special thank you to my friend Juice. He’s been a key part of my journey, always there to help me brainstorm ideas and push my creative boundaries. Whether it’s bouncing around content ideas or collaborating on business strategies, his insight has been invaluable. Juice always knows how to keep me motivated and help me think outside the box, and I’m beyond grateful for his friendship and partnership. Your support means the world to me. You can follow his business on Instagram @Vision.networkk

Instagram: @Papa.Haj, @Echelonentservices, @Behindthemotionn

Image Credits
Christa Booth / @ChristaBoothPhotography