From homelessness to fashion entrepreneur: Dagenham businessman’s three-word philosophy
An example of Channon's Money Power Loyalty clothing line - Credit: Archant
A budding businessman who found himself homeless as a teenager is hoping to take the fashion industry by storm with the launch of his own clothing line.
Businessman Channon Smith - Credit: Archant
Channon Smith, 21, grew up in Beam Avenue, Dagenham, but family problems meant he left home before reaching his 18th birthday.
During a tough 20-month stay in a Brentwood hostel, he began to formulate his own three-word philosophy that now forms the basis and name for his clothing company: Money Power Loyalty.
“These three words are a want and need in today’s society,” he said.
“Everyone needs money to do anything – it’s like oxygen.
“Power is something we all strive for and something that can take many forms, and loyalty is the foundation for all sorts of relationships.”
After landing a job as a chef in Canary Wharf two years ago, the former Dagenham Park pupil began taking an interest in economics and spent his free time tuned to American news and business channels CNBC and Bloomberg and studying the financial markets.
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Currently stocking t-shirts and jumpers bearing his company slogan, Channon will be selling his goods though Amazon in the next few months and believes his tough teenage years have helped him on his journey.
He added: “Having to leave home really affected me – you’re still just a kid at 17 – and is something I always reflect back on.
“I’ve used that fear to empower me today.
“Ultimately I want to become one of the biggest online retailers of clothes out there, but also convey a message.
“My business is not all about money, but about showing others nothing is impossible if you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone, regardless of what anybody says.”
For more information visit facebook.com/moneypowerloyalty
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