Description
Written by Charles S. Mombo, “The Back-Scratching Model: How Reciprocity Drives Black-Owned Business Growth” is exclusively available on Amazon Kindle.
In his formative years in Liberia, a culturally rich and traditional land, Charles encountered an idiom that profoundly influenced his perception of community and business: “Scratch my back; I scratch your back.” Although a simple phrase, it carried profound implications of mutual assistance, community-driven progress, and the intricate bonds of human reciprocity.
This principle of interdependence and mutual benefit became the foundation upon which Charles framed the “Back-Scratching Model.” After relocating to Chicago, where he lived, taught, and immersed himself in its diverse culture for over four decades, this model evolved into more than just a fundamental concept for understanding the business landscape. It illuminated the unique spirit of Black-owned businesses, characterized by community cohesion, mutual respect, and shared aspirations.
Leveraging his ten years of experience teaching business and management information system classes at esteemed Chicago colleges, Charles recognized that the ethos of “Scratch my back, I scratch your back” transcended geographical and cultural boundaries; it was, in fact, a universal principle. Beyond the confines of classrooms and boardrooms, this approach echoed the essence of Black entrepreneurial spirit—a testament to resilience, collaboration, and the transformative power of reciprocity.
In the upcoming chapters, Charles embarks on an exploratory journey into the heart of Black entrepreneurship. He delves deeply into narratives that span from the bustling streets of Chicago to the historical intricacies of Gary, from the dynamic energy of Atlanta to the resilient spirit of Detroit. Each story shows the enduring power of the “Back-Scratching Model” and its role in driving the growth and success of Black-owned businesses.
Beyond merely recounting success stories, this book seeks to comprehend the foundational principles that have fueled these businesses. It emphasizes the significance of community collaboration, robust support systems, and a vision for shared prosperity. Through real-world case studies and insights from visionary Black entrepreneurs, Charles provides aspiring business leaders with a roadmap that unveils the potential of reciprocity as a potent catalyst for local and global progress.
Join Charles on this enlightening journey as he celebrates the resilience, innovation, and unparalleled community spirit inherent in Black-owned businesses. Together, readers will uncover practical insights, strategies, and lessons for the present and future, painting a vivid picture of the boundless possibilities that await when we champion the power of reciprocity.