Derrick Hayes is charismatic, driven, humble, confident, and honestly the epitome of American exceptionalism and the embodiment of the American dream.
Hayes is an astute businessman who desires to corner both markets of meat-eaters and vegans. For Big Dave’s, customers can have the traditional cheesesteak. Those seeking a healthier option can visit Bar Vegan lounge founded by his partner Aisha “Pinky” Cole, and enjoy vegan egg rolls and Philly cheesesteaks called Dinkies, a portmanteau of their names Derrick and Pinky.
He continues: “So we started out just helping, what can we partner upon, and it was sad to say, Rashad Brooks was murdered in a Wendy’s parking lot. We [were] able to give his family life insurance and provide them with a brand new car. Pinky was able to get CAU [Clarke Atlanta University] to partner [with] $600,000 in scholarships. So that was just one of many things that led us to where we [are] right now. But we started out based in a community because we know that’s what helped us build our brands.”
Derrick Hayes giving his acceptance speech at the Black Enterprise Entrepreneur Summit in … [+]
Danika Berry Agency
Derrick Hayes (center) with Black Enterprise CEO Earl Gilbert “Butch” Graves Jr., receiving the … [+]
