March 2020
With Noah Shin
Onesimus Pewee (a.k.a. the man O.P.) is searching for the next big thing. He’s a creative, a musician, an entrepreneur, a social representative…the list goes on. O.P. is working to change more than just a simple concept or idea. He’s looking to change the culture.
O.P. is a student at GRCC studying organizational psychology and is considering a transition to business. He’s actively involved in the NAACP youth community. His mother is the proud founder of a local GR company, Martha’s international market, whom O.P. helps manage the store, track sales, and assist in social media and advertising, among other duties.
O.P. recently founded a clothing brand called “The Finesse Culture,” which seeks to take a stance against the appropriation of the Black culture. Last year were the first steps to the company, launching the company website, reaching out to business communities, and of course, networking. O.P. takes pride in what the brand has accomplished thus far, most notably the brand’s participation in a local Grand Rapids fashion show.
Then there’s his creative side. A gifted musician when he was younger, O.P. looks to expand his repertoire of skills, writing, producing, and collaborating in all forms with other musicians in the Midwest. Making a connection is a valuable thing, and O.P. accredits much of his abilities to network and make connections through GRIL’s program.
O.P. graduated from the program in his senior year of high school in 2017. GRIL has taught him the importance of time management and how to prepare for the adult world. Most notably, during one of the GRIL sessions, participants were given a cash flow simulation. The game taught O.P. how to generate income and manage his finances through scenarios (like a housing station, a bank station). He credits his mentor Denise and praises the culture of GRIL, which has cultivated and connected GRIL alumni and formed meaningful connections.
We look forward to seeing what O.P. does next.