The Founders | Global Apex Elite

Meet The Founders

Our strength lies in the collective vision and expertise of our founders. Brought together by a shared passion for empowering minority-owned businesses, our seven founders are influential Business Owners and Community Leaders dedicated to making a lasting impact.

Amy Redix, known as the 'Million Dollar Realtor,' is a dynamic entrepreneur and community leader with a passion for real estate and empowering others. Born and raised in San Marcos, TX, Amy's journey into entrepreneurship began during her time at Prairie View A&M University, where she majored in Communications and Business Marketing.

In her 20s, Amy discovered her knack for business when she founded a credit repair agency, which later evolved into a successful tax preparation office. Her entrepreneurial spirit continued to flourish when she was mentored by one of Houston's most successful Black realtors in 2004, sparking her love for the real estate industry.

Today, Amy is the founder and CEO of Uptown Luxe Realty, where she leads a team of talented six figure earning realtors. With her expertise in creative financing and extensive knowledge of the lending side, Amy has facilitated the sale of multi-million-dollar single-family homes, commercial real estate, and entire subdivisions.

Recognized for her outstanding achievements, Amy has been awarded the prestigious Platinum Million Dollar Realtor title three times and has received honors among Black Real Estate professionals. She is also a sought-after speaker, sharing her business acumen at entrepreneurship conferences and serving as a panelist at several retreats.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Amy is deeply committed to giving back to her community. Amy’s mother conceived her as a teenager and her parents were placed back into fulltime parenting duty so that her mom could attend college. Drawing from this personal experience, she founded The GRAND Village, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing resources and support to grandparents who unexpectedly find themselves raising their grandchildren.

In her leisure time, Amy enjoys indulging her passion for sports as a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys. She also finds solace in activities like walking, reading, and engaging in strategy sessions. An old soul at heart, Amy values quality time spent with her daughter, family, and friends.

Amy's magnetic personality and genuine warmth make her a beloved figure in both her professional and personal circles. It's often said that ‘if you don't like Amy, something must be wrong with you!’. Her unwavering dedication to excellence, coupled with her commitment to making a difference, continues to inspire those around her.

Antong Lucky is the President & CEO of Urban Specialists, a national non-profit working to address Public Safety concerns by equipping, empowering, and educating local changemakers by bringing solutions to their own communities through mentoring, educational, networking, capacity building and entrepreneurial endeavors. The Urban Specialists identify and activate a network of changemakers transforming communities through powerful, local leadership.

Mr. Lucky is the Co-Chair of the Heal America Movement and serves on the Board of Directors for Stand Together Foundation, Frazier Revitalization, Inc., Hope 4 Prisoners, and the Circle Ten Council Advisory Board for Boy Scouts of America. Antong is the author of his new memoir A Redemptive Path Forward from Incarceration to a Life of Activism.

At an early age, Lucky was embroiled in a life of crime that ultimately landed him in prison. During his sentence, Antong denounced his gang affiliation and started to read numerous and various books to educate himself. As he walked his personal transformation, he subsequently began working to unite the rival gangs. Antong quickly rose to become one of the most respected and sought-after mentors in prison. His teachings on conflict resolution taught fellow inmates how not to use violence as their primary language but instead to practice peace. Upon release from prison, Antong met Omar Jahwar, who became his mentor. Omar and Antong spearheaded the first gang truce in the city of Dallas bringing together over 400 gang members to sign a treaty of peace.

Antong has spent the last twenty-two years working to end violence in communities and build sustainable communities. His most recent professional endeavors include training police officers on effective community engagement strategies and how to build healthy relationships with the community they serve. Transforming Urban Specialists to an organization that addresses Public Safety with proven strategies. Antong is building 50 affordable housing units in his old neighborhood as part of his plan to redevelop the community he once helped to destroy. Antong mentors young boys of incarcerated parents through an organization Families of Conviction. Antong is a thought leader and speaker on issues of eradicating violence, reentry, criminal justice reform, mentoring Black men and boys, and bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community.

Antong has been featured on numerous radio stations; television shows, and magazines. He hosts a weekly syndicated radio show every Sunday titled, “Serving on Sundays”, where he highlights changemakers that are doing the work to eradicate senseless violence and poverty in underserved communities of Dallas.

To learn more about Antong and his work, AntongSpeaks.com or AntongSpeaks on all social media platforms or please visit www.urbanspecialists.org or email antongl@urbanspecialists.org.

Aelicia Watson, affectionately known as “Chocolate,” is an Urban Missionary to the women of Dallas’ Bonton neighborhood and across the Metroplex. Chocolate has always had a servant’s heart and a strong desire to serve the lost, the least, and the lonely.

Chocolate began part-time ministry as a volunteer in Bonton several years before answering God’s call into full-time service in 2016. Then, God called her one giant step further to establish Redeemed Women in 2017, a ministry focused on the unique needs and challenges of women facing generational poverty, homelessness, hunger, exploitation, sexual and domestic abuse, teen pregnancy, educational deficiencies, spiritual, emotional, and medical needs, unemployment, transportation needs and the lack of a viable support system.

As the survivor of teen pregnancy, sexual abuse, bone cancer twice, breast cancer, homelessness, abuse, and a variety of dire circumstances, Chocolate knows first-hand what a woman must overcome as she discovers her essential worthiness as a child of God and her immense potential to flourish as a redeemed woman of God.

Chocolate turned to Christ for strength and courage to begin her healing process, and through Redeemed Women, she wants every woman struggling with such deep challenges to know the same healing power of Christ in their own lives. Women are naturally drawn to Chocolate’s warm smile and outgoing personality, and the pure joy that radiates from her heart!

Women see in Chocolate their own pain and are encouraged that they, too, can survive and thrive! She builds trust as she reaches out in kindness and love, listening to each woman’s unique story and drawing them into community through Bible study, guidance counseling and social events at The Well, Redeemed Women’s new headquarters across from Fair Park.

Redeemed Women helps women rebuild their brokenness and find new hope for the future with joy and community for the journey ahead. The ministry offers women strategic guidance, emotional support and shares God’s steadfast love with each woman despite her circumstance or past. Chocolate’s heart’s desire is to invite women from all walks of life and every ethnicity into authentic relationship with Jesus and the abundant, Redeemed life He offers.

Chocolate is the mother of Archesicia, affectionately known as “Tweety,” who while working on her bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas also finds time to volunteer with Redeemed Women.

Chocolate graduated from high school in December 1999, received an Associates Degree in Child Development from Eastfield College in 2005, and was awarded an Administrative Certification in 2009. Before going into full time ministry, Chocolate was a Dispatch Operator in transportation management. In 2016 she was awarded the “Awaken” award presented by Priscilla Shirer on behalf of “Going Beyond” ministries. This award recognizes an exceptional woman, who in spite of her own difficulties, ministers to and serves her community. Chocolate is a life-long learner and continues to take non-profit and business classes to equip her to lead the ministry.

Chocolate’s autobiography, Anointed – a survivor’s story… from unspeakable pain to undeniable joy, is for sale at The Well or purchase online.

In her spare time, she loves to travel, attend social events, enjoys reading, and a good night of Karaoke.

David Johnson, known as "The Mogul" for his extraordinary ability to start and scale businesses, was born in Shreveport, Louisiana. After completing high school, David joined the Army, where he served his country with honor and distinction. Upon completing his military service, he transitioned to civilian life, working at the post office.

However, David's entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to explore new ventures. He ventured into the cattle industry, where his knack for business and keen understanding of the market allowed him to build a successful operation. Through hard work and dedication, he became a millionaire by selling and breeding cattle. Demonstrating his acumen for recognizing profitable opportunities, David sold his cattle business and entered the over-the-road trucking industry. Here too, he achieved remarkable success, growing the company into a million-dollar enterprise before selling it.

Continuing his streak of entrepreneurial triumphs, David founded Triple D Acquisitions, a luxury home building company where he serves as CEO. Known for his commitment to uniqueness and quality, David never builds the same home twice. His company has constructed million-dollar subdivisions and even a breathtaking 40,000-square-foot single-family home, setting new standards in luxury living.

In addition to his business endeavors, David holds a Master’s degree in Accounting, further cementing his expertise in managing and growing businesses. His philanthropic side shines through his founding of World of Dreams, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing homes to disabled veterans at no cost. This initiative reflects David’s deep sense of gratitude and commitment to giving back to those who have served their country.

Despite his many accomplishments, David remains humble about his success, often attributing it to divine guidance with his signature phrase, "GOD did." In his leisure time, David enjoys relaxing by the pool, entertaining friends and family, or indulging in a good book.

David Johnson's journey from a high school graduate in Shreveport to a multi-millionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist is a testament to his vision, perseverance, and generosity. His story continues to inspire many, demonstrating that with faith, hard work, and a heart for giving, incredible achievements are possible.

Dr. Latame Phillips is a distinguished leader, philanthropist, and advocate born in San Diego, CA. He embarked on his academic journey at the University of Southern California, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Management.

Dr. Phillips' commitment to service led him to the frontlines of Operation Enduring Iraqi Freedom, where he served in the Army and witnessed combat duty. Following his military service, he transitioned into the corporate world, holding prominent roles in wealth management with companies like Haliburton and other large corporations.

Driven by a passion for social impact, Dr. Phillips transitioned to the nonprofit sector, joining Hunger Busters, an after-school feeding program. Under his leadership, the program significantly expanded, providing nearly 3,500 dinners daily to students in need.

His dedication to community service has earned him prestigious awards, including the Dallas Police Department Civilian Partner of the Year, Zakat Lodge Nonprofit Partner of the Year, and the Presidential Community Service Award.

Dr. Phillips is a multifaceted individual, not only excelling in philanthropy but also making significant contributions to literature and public speaking. He is the author of a best-selling compilation book and a sought-after TEDx speaker, using his platform to advocate for combating childhood insecurity.

A voice on various media platforms, Dr. Phillips has shared his story and insights on combating food insecurity on major radio and television networks, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and Telemundo. He has been featured in extended interviews on Zondra TV and Giving Outloud, amplifying his message to a wider audience.

Driven by a mission to raise awareness, Dr. Phillips launched the 145 Campaign, shining a spotlight on the 145,000 food-insecure students in Dallas. His campaign garnered recognition from two Dallas mayors, who declared the 145th day of the year as Hunger Busters Day in acknowledgment of his efforts.

In addition to his philanthropic endeavors, Dr. Phillips is a respected academic, holding a Ph.D. from Trinity University. He is also a certified Business Entrepreneur Coach, leveraging his expertise to teach advanced wealth-building techniques to others.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Phillips is an avid sports enthusiast who treasures spending quality time with friends and family. His diverse interests and unwavering dedication to service continue to inspire positive change in communities nationwide.

Terrance Hails from the great Country of Texas. He prides himself on being a great husband and father. Since 2002 he has worked in the financial services industry. From retail banking, Business Development as a branch and commercial banking partner, to now the commercial lending space.

Currently, as a commercial lender he makes sure that black and brown owned companies have a true relationship and advocate that they can count on. He also makes sure that they have the same voice, treatment, and access as their counterparts.

Terrance has a strong history of interfacing with a financially diverse client base and recommends appropriate financial products and partnerships, to drive successful outcomes to his network of clients. The main objective for him is creating intentional relationships that allow each person and business to grow into their greatness.

Terrance brings a wealth of knowledge and community engagement to the table, serving as an active member of several civic and social organizations. He lives by this quote, “Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing and helping another. He says that out of all the positions and titles he has or has held the greatest of these is that of a servant and friend.

Affiliations: Member of Texas Prince Hall Masons, Past Master of Gilbert Grove Lodge 263, AEAONMS, Inc. Prince Hall Shriners, Past Potentate of Zakat Temple 164, 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, U.S.C.S.J., Greater SW Black Chamber (Board Chairman 2020 & 2021), Under 1 Roof Board of Directors (Board Treasurer), A Bridge 2 Light (Board Member), Desert Sands Charitable Foundation (Board Member), Legion of Honor (AEAONMS, Inc. Prince Hall Shriners) and Engage Dallas Alumni (Class 9)

Thana Hickman-Simmons' journey began in the vibrant neighborhoods of South Chicago, Illinois. At the age of 17, Thana was faced with an unplanned pregnancy. Despite the unexpected responsibilities of motherhood, she pursued higher education and earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration thanks to the unwavering support of her parents, sisters, and her godmother, Ms. Viola.

Her journey continued as she navigated the challenges of a young marriage, raising three daughters, and eventually becoming a divorcee. Through it all, Thana's heart was drawn to a greater purpose. She realized the blessing of having a support system that not all young mothers had. This realization led to the inception of Viola's House (named after her godmother) in 2008, initially conceived as a mentoring program to assist teen mothers in pursuing education and successful careers while caring for their children.

Today, Viola's House, nestled in the heart of South Dallas, operates from a beautiful historic home that can accommodate up to 7 mothers and their babies. The facility is staffed around the clock, with licensed counselors, mentors, and educators working collaboratively to ensure the growth and success of its residents. Thana recognized that there were still unmet needs within the community, and in 2022, she established the Viola's House Baby Benefit Boutique (BBB) to expand their services. In 2023, Viola’s House distributed over 6 millions diapers becoming the largest diaper distributor in Dallas County.

Thana Hickman-Simmons' greatest fulfillment comes from serving homeless teen mothers as they transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency. Her story is a testament to the power of determination, community support, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every young mother to succeed. Under her leadership, Viola's House continues to make a profound impact on the lives of those it serves, providing hope, stability, and a brighter future.

Thana's dedication has been honored with several awards, including:

Women Helping Women Maura Award from the Texas Women's Foundation
Life Saver Award from the Texas Pregnancy Care Network
Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Award from D-Magazine for Organization Of The Year.
Outstanding Businesswoman Of The Year IOTA PHI Lambda Sorority, INC Epsilon TAU Chapter
Honorable Mention for the Juanita Craft Humanitarian Award
Outstanding Community Service Award from Pearls of The Ivy Foundation AKA Sorority, INC. Upsilon Lambda Omega Chapter

Miriam Award presented by the Genesis Women's Shelter for Community Advocacy Thana and Viola's House have been featured in numerous media outlets, including:

Good Morning Texas
Texas Metro News
DCEO Magazine
ABC News, CBS News, NBC News, and FOX 4 News, highlighting their impactful work and inspiring journey.

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