Proof & Perspectives Presents: Building the Empire by Design

Unfiltered strategy on defining success on your own terms. Building the Empire by Design Featuring Guest Speaker Walter Lashawn Gilmore Jr. (GO79MAN) About the Event Most people wait for an invitation, a green light, or a record deal to build something big. We’re pulling back the curtain on a different path. Join Proof & Perspectives and GO79MAN for an unfiltered look at the independent artist journey and what it actually takes to build a self-funded, sustainable career without waiting for anyone’s permission. We’re diving deep into the intersection of smart technology, creative resilience, and treating your craft like a business. Whether you’re an artist, creator, founder, or community builder, this session will challenge how you view your work and give you the blueprint to turn everyday hustle into a community-driven movement. This isn't just a talk about art—it's a masterclass in ownership, strategy, and self-determination. What We'll Explore: • The Permissionless Mindset: Why waiting for approval keeps your biggest ideas small. • Art Meets Business: How to leverage smart technology and business strategy without sacrificing creative integrity. • Building a Movement: Practical ways to turn your everyday hustle into a sustainable, community-supported ecosystem. • Unfiltered Real Talk: Real-world proof and lessons learned from the trenches of independent building. Networking & Cocktail Perk Every ticket includes a complimentary craft cocktail/glass of wine or non-alchoholic beverage! Come early or stick around after the talk to connect with local creators, founders, and innovators. Event Details • 📅 Date: December 15, 2026 • ⏰ Time: 6:30 PM • 📍 Location: Weldon Mills Durham • 300 E Main St Ste 001, Durham, NC 27701 • 🍷 Perks: 1 Complimentary Craft Cocktail/Glass of Wine/Non-alchoholic beverage included with every ticket! • (Non-alcoholic options available) 🎟️ Proof of Concept- General Admission — $35 Includes: • Full access to talk & Q&A • Networking with local founders and community members • 1 complimentary craft cocktail, glass of wine or non-alcholic beverage 🌱 Table Expander- Community Supporter Ticket — $45 (Pay-It-Forward) Want to make an even bigger impact? This tier directly funds sponsored tickets for community members who face financial barriers, while directly supporting our guest speakers. Includes: • Everything in General Admission (Talk, Q&A, Networking) • 1 complimentary craft cocktail/ glass of wine or non-alcholic beverage • 1 Sponsored Ticket contributed to our Community Access Fund • Special shoutout/recognition. Space is limited—reserve your spot today!