Robert F. Smith, Hosts of 'Earn Your Leisure' Talk Closing the Economic Gap at Carnegie Hall in NYC

In celebration of Black History Month, CAMUS Cognac raised a glass to Black wealth and influence. The Quintessential Gentleman was invited to a night where Black men shinned and gathered in celebration.

For one night only, the legendary Carnegie Hall in New York City opened its doors to host an in-depth conversation led by private equity businessman and Black billionaire Robert F. Smith alongside Greenwood Bank co-founder Dr. Paul Judge and financial literacy tech educators Rashad Bilal and Troy Milling of Earn Your Leisure. The conversation centered on "How to Close the Economic Gap through the Digital Economy."

The dynamic duo from Earn Your Leisure led the conversation by highlighting the importance of Black people in asset management and how it will help bridge the gap economically, a missing piece of the puzzle. With over one million YouTube subscribers, Bilal and Milling have risen into popularity with their desire to educate the community about financial literacy.

The gentlemen on the panel discussed the lack of support Black communities continue to have in not only the economic space but also the tech industry. Smith heavily focused on HBCUs not having access to broadband. A recent report showed that 82 percent of HBCUs are broadband desserts. The Vista Equity Partners CEO made headlines when he partnered with Cisco and donated $150 million to advance HBCUs’ technology infrastructure and cybersecurity systems.

The night concluded with an intimate performance from hip-hop icon Busta Rhymes featuring a live orchestra. Rhymes shared his excitement for being able to perform for the first time in his 35-year career span to a sold-out majority all-Black audience at the legendary Carnegie Hall. The Gimmie Some More rapper expressed gratitude for his mother and for a night that celebrated his long list of hits.

CAMUS served as one of the sponsors of the night. The cognac house has remained family-owned since its founding in 1863 and crafts the world’s most aromatic Cognac.

Photo Credit: John Ricard / Soul B Photos for CAMUS