Black History Month - Anthony Nichols

Every February, we honor and pay tribute to the generations of African Americans whose contributions and sacrifices over the decades have shaped our nation. In honor of Black History Month, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is proud to shine a light and show our gratitude to the black business owners that play a vital role in our local business community and help our organization drive business forward in Delaware County.

Today we would like you to get to know Anthony Nichols. Continue reading Anthony's answers to learn more about him. 

Introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about your business:
My name is Anthony Nichols, and I operate a food trailer, called Tones Spot.   There is not a lot that says love like a plate of beautiful, delicious food. My goal with this business is to spread as much love as I can, to my neighbors, my community, and my friends. My food trailer allows me to do that unlike any other business that I’ve been in.  The Bible says the only debt that we owe to society is to love our fellow man, and I try my best to live by that scripture.

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​In honor of February being Black History Month, can you identify a leader in history that has inspired you most and explain why? 
I’ve always been a big fan of Muhammad Ali for two reasons. The first is, I was a boxer myself and followed the sport my whole life since a child. Muhammad Ali was the most polarizing person on the planet during the time that I grew up. The things that he had sacrificed such as his Championship, his respect in society and his freedom by denying to go to war in Vietnam, that shows me tremendous character.  It has encouraged me to do what I feel is right based on my morals and standards, regardless of others opinions or consequences.

What motivated you to open your own business?
I was motivated to open my own business because I have been an entrepreneur for a long time. I’ve worked very closely with many owners of businesses and I have to give credit to them because they helped me realize who I really was, and that is an exceptional businessman. I knew that if I did on my own business, I would have the flexibility to become an important contributor to those in our community who need it most.  

What advice would you give to other aspiring Black entrepreneurs?
The advice that I would give to other aspiring entrepreneurs is to surround yourself with like-minded people because iron sharpens iron. Begin networking and make connections with those that you can help or those that can help you. Do not go into any entrepreneurship unless it is something that you have an incredible passion for.

What impacts do you want your work to have on future generations?When it’s all said and done, I want people to see love and know the impact of how helping others in need changes a life, a community, a nation.

Is there anything special you do to celebrate Black History Month either personally or at your place of business?
During Black History Month, I do find it important to remind myself of where we came from, and what we’ve been through. I love listening to those that put their own lives down to pick up the cause to fight for the freedom of all of us.