Meet Raheem Clyburn | CEO/Entrepreneur

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

Hi Raheem, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
At Trap Finger Kennels, we are inspired by the profound love and dedication that my brother poured into this business. His tragic passing in July 2023 left a void that can never be filled, but it also ignited a fierce determination within me to carry on the legacy he built with such passion. My brother started Trap Finger Kennels to create a better life for our family, and his vision was rooted in love, commitment, and a desire to uplift those around him.

Losing him so suddenly was devastating, but I couldn’t bring myself to part with the dogs he cherished so deeply. They are a living testament to his dreams and aspirations. They embody his spirit, and they serve as a reminder of the love he had for his family, especially for his two-year-old son and his fiancé who are left behind.

Continuing Trap Finger Kennels is not just about maintaining a business; it’s about honoring my brother’s memory and ensuring that his dreams live on. Each day, as I care for the dogs and nurture this kennel, I feel his presence guiding me. It’s a commitment to provide for his son and fiancée, to create a legacy that reflects the values he instilled in me, and to ensure that his love continues to shine through in everything we do. In this way, Trap Finger Kennels is not just a kennel; it is a tribute to a beloved brother, a father, a son and a dreamer who left us too soon.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Trap Finger Kennels is more than just a business; it is a heartfelt tribute to my brother’s dreams and a labor of love for our family. What sets us apart is our unique approach to not only breeding exceptional dogs but also creating homes for lower-income families. We recognized a gap in our community and decided to take action by offering affordable housing options while simultaneously building our kennel business.

My brother and I worked tirelessly to transform properties into welcoming homes, and it has truly changed the dynamic of our family forever. With our grandparents, mother, and other siblings retired, my brother and I took on the responsibility of ensuring that our family’s legacy continued. We’ve dedicated ourselves to renting rooms individually, allowing us to generate a sustainable income that supports both our kennel and the families who reside with us. This model has allowed us to provide for the dogs, ensuring that they receive the care and attention they deserve while also bringing joy to other families in the process.

The journey hasn’t been easy; we faced numerous challenges along the way. From managing the properties to navigating the complexities of running a kennel, there were moments of doubt and exhaustion. However, every obstacle served as a lesson in resilience and perseverance. I learned the importance of community, the power of collaboration, and how vital it is to remain grounded in our mission. Each setback has only strengthened my resolve to honor my brother’s legacy and continue to make a positive impact in our community.

What I want the world to know about Trap Finger Kennels is that we are not just about breeding dogs; we are about building a community. We aim to uplift families, provide companionship through our dogs, and create a space where love and support flourish. Our story is rooted in loss, but it is also one of hope, determination, and the unbreakable bond of family. We are proud to be different—taking a holistic approach that intertwines two vital aspects of our mission. In doing so, we strive to create a legacy that my brother would be proud of, one that spreads joy and opportunity to those around us.

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.
If my best friend were visiting Atlanta, GA, for a week, I’d curate an exciting and diverse itinerary that captures the essence of the city—from its vibrant food scene to its rich culture and outdoor fun. Here’s how I would plan the week:

Day 1: Arrival and Skyline Views
– **Morning:** Welcome my friend with brunch at **Ponce City Market**. We can enjoy a selection of artisanal food vendors, with plenty of options to satisfy any craving.
– **Afternoon:** Explore the market’s shops and boutiques, then head up to the **Ponce City Rooftop** for stunning panoramic views of the city while enjoying some fun games and rides.
– **Evening:** Dinner at a nearby restaurant known for Southern cuisine, followed by a casual stroll through the historic Inman Park neighborhood.

Day 2: Culture and Nature
– **Morning:** Start with a visit to the **Atlanta Botanical Garden** to enjoy beautiful flora and stunning landscapes.
– **Afternoon:** Lunch at a local café, then head over to the **Atlanta History Center** to delve into the city’s rich history.
– **Evening:** After a day of exploration, we could unwind with a fun bonfire at **Bonfire ATL**, where we can roast marshmallows and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 3: Food and Fun
– **Morning:** Begin the day with a visit to a local **farmers market**. We can sample fresh produce and artisanal goods, picking up some snacks for later.
– **Afternoon:** Head to **Cascade**, where we can cool off and have some fun at the water park or pool complex.
– **Evening:** Enjoy **Rum Brunch Thursdays** at **Ponce City Rooftop**. The vibrant Caribbean-inspired dishes and delicious rum cocktails will be the perfect way to celebrate the day.

Day 4: Shopping and Exploration
– **Morning:** Spend the morning at one of Atlanta’s **discount malls**, such as **Tanger Outlets** or **Lenox Square**, hunting for great deals and unique finds.
– **Afternoon:** Grab lunch at a popular eatery near the shopping district before heading to **Krog Street Market** to explore its eclectic shops and food options.
– **Evening:** Dinner at a trendy restaurant in the area, followed by live music at a nearby venue to experience the local music scene.

Day 5: Adventure and Relaxation
– **Morning:** Enjoy a relaxing hike at **Stone Mountain Park**, taking in the breathtaking views from the summit.
– **Afternoon:** After a morning of adventure, we can have a picnic lunch at the park.
– **Evening:** Visit a local brewery for a tasting experience, where we can unwind and enjoy the local craft beer scene.

Day 6: Arts and Entertainment
– **Morning:** Explore the **High Museum of Art**, taking in the impressive collections and special exhibitions.
– **Afternoon:** Lunch at a nearby café, then visit the **Fox Theatre** for a tour of this historic landmark.
– **Evening:** Enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant before catching a live performance or concert at the Fox Theatre.

Day 7: Reflect and Relax
– **Morning:** Have a leisurely brunch at a popular local spot to reflect on the week’s adventures.
– **Afternoon:** Spend the afternoon at **Piedmont Park**, enjoying the green space, walking trails, and local art installations.
– **Evening:** For our final dinner, we could revisit a favorite spot from the week, sharing stories and memories made during the trip.

This itinerary balances food, culture, adventure, and relaxation, providing a comprehensive experience of what Atlanta has to offer. From breathtaking views to delicious meals and fun activities, it would be a week filled with unforgettable moments!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my late brother and my entire family. My brother was not just a guiding light in my life; he was a source of unwavering support and inspiration. His passion for building a better future for our family through Trap Finger Kennels ignited a fire within me that continues to fuel my journey today.

In the face of profound loss, my family has been my rock. Each member has played an integral role in encouraging me to persevere, reminding me of the love and dreams we all shared. Their support has been invaluable as I navigate the challenges of carrying on my brother’s legacy.

Additionally, I want to acknowledge the community around us—friends, mentors, and fellow dog lovers—who have offered their encouragement and guidance during this difficult time. Their belief in what we’re building at Trap Finger Kennels keeps me motivated and reminds me that we are all connected through our shared stories and aspirations.

So, thank you to my brother for lighting the way, and to my family for being the heart of this journey. Your love and support mean everything to me, and I am honored to continue this path in your memory.

Instagram: TrapFingerKennels

Other: TikTok: Trapfingerkennels

Image Credits
Myself and All family members shared photos with each other that we felt related to Trap Finger Kennels