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

Hi Demetrius, what’s your definition for success?
I would define success as impactful. To me success is all about how many lives you can impact in a positive manner with the time you have on God’s green earth. I lost a friend in 2015 who was diagnosed with brain cancer. After being diagnosed with brain cancer which prevented him from doing anything physical he started to recover after chemotherapy. He found new purpose in his life because God gave him a second chance and he used it to touch those around him. I never seen him frown the whole time he was going through that process. He smiled and smiled some more. No matter what life threw at him. He kept moving forward until the day it claimed his life. He was only 20 years old, but managed to touch thousands of people hearts before his passing. I pray I can do the same. Even if only my work ethic and passion rubs off on those around me that would be a blessing. I want to pave the way with my own two hands and create my own story. The time, the effort and dedication I put into my craft each day I want it to inspire those around me to not sit on million dollar dreams working a 9-5 because their scared to make sacrifices and take risk. I don’t look up to celebrities cause I can be one. I don’t discredited the next man because it’s enough wealth in the world for everyone. My success will defined by how many lives I can positively impact before God calls me home.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I was born in Sumter, SC & raised in Columbia, SC. Where I’m from experiences like the ones I’ve been blessed to have experienced are not even dreamed of. People get complacent and forget there’s a whole world out there to explore. I didn’t find my passion for music, barbering and personal training until after leaving high school in 2013. The only thought I had was playing in the national football league one day! When my mother lost her job at the beginning of 2014. I became a Dean’s list college dropout of NC A&T and returned home to pick up work so that she wouldn’t struggle alone. I worked 88 hours a week at a $9 job. Before returning to college in the fall of 2015 I realized that one income simply isn’t enough for the lifestyle I wish to live. So I started making music, barbering and personal training. I spent countless hours sitting in barbershops, studios and gyms observing and soaking up knowledge to produce multiple streams of income for me and my family! In my opinion my self-motivation and perseverance are my two greatest qualities that set me apart. I could have took the easy road out and left my mother to fend for herself or even continued to work for someone else however I don’t have to be told to do something. If I want it, I go get it! Success stories always come from a struggle. Without these events I would never have become and entrepreneur. I would never have seen the importance of family and I would never have known how far I could go. The lord gives his toughest battles to his strongest soldiers. I’ll never forget that!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorites spots in the city are probably the gym, the bowling alley, the beach, and the Waffle House. I’m from the country so Waffle House is always the go to spot for me. I found a love for bowling as a hobby after going to college and trying to find things to do on those boring Tuesdays. The gym is an everyday thing for me considering I love to stay in shape and assist others who may need help, but are not confident enough to ask. Last the beach is just the perfect vibe whether it’s sunny or at night. The ocean is relaxing and I literally fall asleep out there making music or watching a good cartoon.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First I want to thank God because without him nothing is possible. He shed blood for me and I will do the same in his name for him to use me as a vessel to spread his messages. I would like to thank my beautiful loving mother, Janetta Dinkins for always supporting me in any endeavor and having my back through the toughest times of my life cause without you I wouldn’t be the man I am today. I would also like to thank Kerron Jones without him I would never have decided to ever make music again. Now I’ve done shows in more than 15 states and my music is becoming world renowned. Lastly, I want to thank the Kraft Team. A group individuals I met while attending The Virginia State University. They pushed me to new heights that I would never thought to strive for. Thank you to everyone who supports me and I will continue to strive to live up to your expectations!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gxldkt_/

Linkedin: https://linktr.ee/Gxld

Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/dink_berg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dejuan.johnson.37

Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCth5bc3w7FgBz96tyJA8B-g

Image Credits
Janetta Dinkins, Shalaia Dinkins, Dejuan Dinkins, Devante Dinkins, TokiooMcfly. Brandon Bailey

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta 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.