Pooling Resources, Building Men: How 5 ELITE Became a Living Model of Community Economics

BLXCR Editorial : In Potomac Gardens, Washington, D.C., leadership with a caring mind planted a seed—and that seed grew into a business. This story matters because it challenges what we are told to expect from places often overlooked. It shows what happens when young men are met with structure, training, and belief instead of neglect. Brother Frank Muhammad shares the hard work, guided by leadership, creates ownership. Potential, when invested in, becomes reality.

When we plant the right seeds, real results follow.

What is unfolding around the young men now known as 5 ELITE is not an accident, nor is it the result of a single individual’s effort. It is the outcome of trust, patience, and a collective spirit that understands what it truly means to invest in Black youth.

At the center of this work is a quiet but consistent approach: relationship first, structure second, and opportunity third. For some time now, Brother Frank of First Fruit has been working closely with these Young Gods, earning their trust before ever talking about business. That foundation made it possible to introduce them to men of like mind—men who carried not only resources, but vision and responsibility.

One of the early breakthroughs came through commercial cleaning. With guidance from Brother Harold, a proven consultant who had already been walking with the young men since the summer, a cleaning franchise was introduced—one he personally uses. The model was intentional: the franchise handles client acquisition and payments, while the young men focus on execution and professionalism. It removed early barriers and allowed them to experience what a functioning business feels like without being overwhelmed. During this stage, Muhammad Mosque No. 4 in Washington DC served as a training ground—a place to learn, observe, and take disciplined “baby steps” forward.

As the work continued, networking opened another door. TEAM F.R.E.E.D.O.M, led by Godbrother Kevin 2X, connected the group to Master Craftsman Greg, CEO of TRU-EPOXY.

Greg had been actively searching for young, ambitious entrepreneurs he could pour into within the rapidly growing residential epoxy flooring industry. The opportunity was real—but so was the cost. A two-day intensive, hands-on certification training was required. That is when the spirit of collective responsibility showed itself again.

Dr. Warees Majeed, the visionary behind The Boardroom, recognized the moment. He reminded the men gathered why Black men meet monthly in the first place: to atone to our communities by forging real pathways for our youth. An appeal was made, and the body of men responded—sponsoring the $4,000 needed to certify five young men. The Young Gods showed up, submitted to the process, completed the intensive training, and earned their certifications.

That investment did not sit idle.

Today, the results are visible. The young men of 5 ELITE are preparing to complete their first epoxy flooring job—offered by Brother Kevin himself—at a high-end event center. This is not charity; it is opportunity backed by trust and accountability. It is what pooling resources looks like in real time.

Additional support came in unexpected but meaningful ways. One supporter donated a caravan to help transport the young men and their equipment as they grow toward building their own fleet. Others stepped in quietly, each according to their means, inspired by what they saw unfolding—by Allah’s permission.

What makes this story remarkable is not only the outcome, but the intention behind it. The sole fundraiser initiated along this journey had a clear purpose: to allow the Young Gods to witness the hearts of Black people. To see firsthand that their community believes in them, supports them, and expects them to become protectors—not oppressors—of their own people.

This is community economics in motion. Teaching, training, certification, and mentorship woven together into a living business model that allows young men to see the best in themselves. The formation of 5 ELITE stands as proof that when disciplined men of vision come together, they can transform potential into practice.

This is not the end of the story—but it is a powerful chapter. And it is one worth telling.