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As a young Black student at Babson College, I have had the privilege of pursuing my passion for entrepreneurship while continuing the deep influence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.

In particular, his words spoken during the 1959 Integrated School March have resonated with me throughout my journey. Join us in the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make yourself a better person, your country a greater country, and the world a better place to live. ” These words not only served as a guiding light, but they also found a deep connection to Babson’s mission to develop entrepreneurial leaders who create economic and social value.
Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Day: Wes Woodson ’20 will be the keynote speaker at Babson’s 20th annual event on Thursday, February 15th. Register now.
Growing up in Arlington, Texas, I learned about Dr. King’s teachings early on from my parents and community. His message of using your humanity to build a career resonated with me from an early age. I felt powerful in his call to commit ourselves to the noble struggle for equal rights. MLK’s vision was not limited to racial equality. It encompassed economic and social justice for all. It was a vision of a world in which opportunity was determined not by the color of one’s skin but by the content of one’s character and commitment to justice.
The enduring relevance of Dr. King’s message is undeniable, especially in today’s world. While great progress has been made, our society still grapples with systemic inequality and discrimination. As a young Black person, I am acutely aware of the challenges that continue. MLK’s principles continue to inspire me to take an active role in addressing these issues, not only as an advocate but also as an entrepreneur. Babson College’s mission aligns seamlessly with MLK’s vision. Babson aims to develop entrepreneurial leaders who create economic and social value, and this mission resonated deeply with me. I have come to understand that entrepreneurship is not just about starting a profitable business. It’s about creating solutions to social problems and improving the lives of others.
Continuing MLK’s tradition
The essence of MLK’s teachings is encapsulated in the phrase “a noble struggle for equal rights.” It has been a constant source of inspiration in my entrepreneurial journey. It reminds me that my pursuits should not be driven solely by personal gain, but should also contribute to the greater good. This highlights the importance of using my entrepreneurial skills to remove barriers and promote equality.
I have aimed to empower communities through entrepreneurial projects. One such initiative was to start a non-profit organization in my hometown with the purpose of providing support to underprivileged families in the area. Another project focused on promoting economic opportunities for minority-owned businesses and raised awareness of gaps in access to resources and finance. MLK’s legacy is a clear reminder that every step I take should be a step toward a better world for everyone.
“Babson College’s mission aligns seamlessly with MLK’s vision. … Entrepreneurship is about more than just starting a profitable business. It’s about creating solutions to social problems and helping other It’s about improving people’s lives.”
Lover Backmon ’26
Dr. King’s influence on my entrepreneurial journey extends beyond inspiration. It has shaped my values and leadership style. I believe in empathetic leadership, promoting diversity and fostering an inclusive environment in my business. I have witnessed firsthand how these principles not only create a positive work culture, but also contribute to business success and sustainability.
I am dedicated to continuing my education at Babson College and looking to the future to continue MLK’s legacy. I see a world where the noble struggle for equal rights is not just a dream but a reality. I believe that through entrepreneurship, I can play a vital role in creating economic and social value within my community and beyond. Dr. King’s words always remind me that my journey as a young black entrepreneur is not just about personal success, but about contributing to a greater country and a better world.
In conclusion, the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is a powerful source of inspiration that has deeply influenced my journey as a young black student at Babson College and as an aspiring entrepreneur. His message of building a career on your humanity and committing yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights resonates with both my personal values and Babson’s mission. MLK’s legacy is more than just a historical lesson, it is a living testament to the enduring importance of pursuing justice, equality, and a better world for all through entrepreneurship.
Lavar Buckmon ’26 is a Diversity Leadership Scholar at Babson College, a member of the Semiras Association as a first-generation student, and serves on the board of the Babson Marketing Association.
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