09/22/2026
Some moments remind you that nothing in your journey was wasted.
Years ago, I was Dr. Nicole Gates, operating Dore’ Touch Event Center and doing everything I could to build a legitimate, sustainable business. Cedric Hamilton was the person who certified my business, and Stuart Lott was part of the work being done to strengthen entrepreneurship within our community.
I also cannot tell this story without acknowledging Ron Meredith. Ron has served not only as a friend, but also as a trusted business resource, mentor, and constant cheerleader for the work I am doing in Raleigh. His encouragement, guidance, and belief in the vision have meant more than he may ever realize.
At the time, I did not know that those early experiences and relationships were preparing me for something much bigger.
Today, I am Dr. Nicole Gates-Golden, Executive Director of Golden Key Entrepreneur Training Academy, and Stuart Lott now serves as a member of our Board of Directors. The woman who once needed guidance, certification, mentorship, and access now leads an accredited academy that provides those same resources and opportunities to other entrepreneurs.
That is what makes this video such a powerful full circle moment.
I went from operating one business to creating an institution that helps others build theirs. I went from seeking resources to becoming a resource. I went from learning how to navigate the system to helping entrepreneurs understand the system, enter it prepared, and build something sustainable.
Cedric Hamilton helped certify my business. Stuart Lott witnessed part of that journey and now helps govern the organization that grew from it. Ron Meredith has continued to encourage, mentor, and champion both me and the work we are doing throughout Raleigh.
Dore’ Touch Event Center gave me real world experience, but Golden Key Entrepreneur Training Academy became the vehicle through which I could turn that experience into access for others.
Sometimes the assignment is bigger than the business you are building at the moment. Sometimes that business is the classroom preparing you to build the institution your community has been missing.
I did not come from access. I became it.
This is more than a look back. It is proof that when you remain committed to the work, the people, lessons, and experiences from every season eventually come together.
Thank you, Cedric Hamilton, Stuart Lott, and Ron Meredith, for being part of this journey and for continuing to believe in the vision.
This is what it means to do business the Golden Way.
Watch “Breaking Barriers to Business: Memphis, Tennessee” here:
Main Street America is supporting cross-sector leaders in accelerat...
