Hey, I'm Bennie, and I'm not just a voice behind Discover Charlotte; I'm a living, breathing part of this city's tapestry.
Born and raised here, my story intertwines with Charlotte's streets, from the historic vibes of West Charlotte to the pulsating energy of our uptown district. This city's transformation into the vibrant metropolis we see today is something I've experienced alongside it.
My journey through academia at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte deepened my roots here, honing my appreciation for our culture and the sense of community that makes Charlotte stand out.
But let's rewind a bit, back to when my parents arrived from Nigeria in 1974. With nothing but dreams and determination, they found a new home in Charlotte, a city that welcomed them with open arms.
Their journey and entrepreneurial spirit not only shaped my upbringing with the ethos of hard work, dedication, and community but also instilled in me a deep respect for small business owners and their pivotal role in weaving the city's cultural and economic fabric.
Through Discover Charlotte, we aim to pay homage to this city that has given us so much. It's our platform to share the tales of Charlotte's small businesses, from the cozy boutiques and family-owned eateries to the groundbreaking startups driving our future forward. We're celebrating our city's culinary diversity, infusing each post with our personal touch to bring authenticity and depth.
Whether it's exploring a new restaurant, enjoying a local concert, or highlighting a small business making waves, our insights and stories offer a unique lens that resonates with both Charlotteans and visitors.
So come along with us on this adventure through Charlotte. We're here to unearth the stories, tastes, and faces that render our city genuinely extraordinary. Discover Charlotte is more than a blog; it's your portal into the heart and soul of our home, as seen through the eyes of those who cherish it dearly.
- Bennie