Auburn Avenue in Atlanta, the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., has long been a hub of Black achievement and enterprise. In the 1950’s it was called “the richest Negro street in the world,” as it was home to visionary entrepreneurs like Alonzo Herndon and the founders of the Atlanta Daily World, laying the foundation for generations of Black-owned business.

Today, local shops and cultural landmarks continue that legacy, like that of the APEX Museum which illuminates history—showing that Africa’s contributions to the world predate slavery with innovation, mathematics, and science. Their spirit is embodied by students like Deondray Epps II, a Morehouse attendee who channels Auburn Avenue’s energy into his own work—founding the first car club at his school while supporting the museum as the Museum Development and Research Intern. Auburn Avenue is more than a street; it’s a living story of Black entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership that bridges past and present.