We had the good fortune of connecting with Channing Hawkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Channing, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Work to me is supposed to be fun, although it can definitely be stressful at times, if you find joy in what you do, and can make money doing it…that sounds like a great life! And most importantly being able to leave something behind to the next generation, generational wealth is the key!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a artist and musician from Canton, Ohio. My music company and group is Commission World Inc, I also launched an Energy Drink Company called “Zeal Energy Drink” in 2015. I’m still a student in both business and art, and still face many challenges, but I’m always up for challenges or I wouldn’t get to the next level in my journey, it’s like a video game, you can quit or keep trying, eventually you’ll win. I want people to enjoy my music, drink, etc, but my most importantly I want people to be inspired, motivated and determined to reach whatever goals it is they set, and keep God first. That formula always works for me!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In my city of Canton, Ohio? Not much “lol” but the Pro football Hall of Fame is dope if you haven’t been there. We’re real good in sports up here. You got Canton McKinley, Massillon Tigers, Ohio State, CJ McCollum is from Canton, he definitely putting on for the city, of course Lebron James being from Akron, it’s all 330 love! Outside of hall of fame week it’s not to much going on here, I love my city but it’s a city you want to make it out of, not move too necessarily, it’s bad here, it’s bad everywhere, but it’s a very small city too, to add to that. But if your looking to retire, north canton, places like that aren’t bad at all to live in.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
God first and foremost, without him I’d be dead, he wasn’t done with me yet though! My mother for bringing me into this world, my good friend who’s like a brother as well, David McIntyre, he’s been in my corner from day one, the good and the bad. I’ve been inspired and have gotten support from many others as well, too many to name, y’all know who y’all are!

Instagram: Instagram.com/kingsinatra19
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/channing.hawkins
Youtube: YouTube.com/commission.world

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlana is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.