Success Stories
Franklin Tsung’s financial career shows his entrepreneurial spirit and deep expertise, which he inherited from his father. Tsung began his career in finance at a young age and founded BlackCrown, a boutique structured private acquisition company when he was only 20 years old. Building on his father’s legacy, Tsung uses his extensive network and firsthand knowledge of technology to navigate the complex world of private equity transactions
Tsung’s company, BlackCrown, specialises in acquiring troubled companies and transforming them into market leaders, particularly in financial technology. His distinct approach combines wealth management and private equity, resulting in innovative solutions that defy traditional norms. Tsung’s membership in the Forbes Finance Council has enhanced his brand equity by allowing him to share valuable thought leadership and strengthen relationships with qualified private equity firms. As he navigates the challenges of finding good deals in a competitive market, Tsung’s commitment to excellence and strategic vision distinguishes him as a financial industry leader.
Franklin Tsung
WalNG
Software Engineer
Stephanie Arnett’s success story in Starkville, Mississippi, demonstrates her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to customer service in a competitive real estate market. With over two decades of experience, she has been able to navigate the unique challenges of a small-town environment by utilising creative marketing strategies and embracing technological advances. Arnett’s commitment to providing exceptional service extends to pioneering initiatives such as twilight open houses, which address the needs of her rural community.
Arnett, a Forbes Council member and Tom Ferry real estate coach is always looking for new ways to expand her knowledge and network with industry peers across the country. Through these platforms, she gains valuable insights, shares best practices, and stays up to date on emerging real estate trends. Arnett’s participation in online forums and discussions encourages collaboration and learning, adding to the prestige and credibility of the Forbes Council’s name. Stephanie Arnett continues to be at the forefront of the real estate industry, setting a standard of excellence for agents across the country by focusing on continuous improvement and innovation.
Stephanie Arnett
WalNG
Software Engineer
Bill Hobbs, Anvyl’s Chief Revenue Officer, is well-known not only for his role in revolutionising supply chain efficiency but also for his ability to write. His book, “The WORK Book: How to Build Your Personal Brand and Get Hired,” provides invaluable advice on personal branding and career advancement. Hobbs, a member of the Forbes Business Development Council, uses Forbes Council’s Premium membership offerings, particularly Content Studio, to streamline his writing process.
Hobbs efficiently organises his thoughts and identifies article topics that appeal to his audience with the help of his dedicated Content Studio strategist, Gillian. This collaboration allows him to express his ideas in his own words, ensuring authenticity and engagement. Hobbs sees Content Studio as more than just a tool; it’s a time-saving resource that allows him to share valuable insights and effectively connect with his target audience.
Bill Hobbs
WalNG
Software Engineer
Ellie Perlman’s transformation from commercial real estate lawyer to successful real estate investor and entrepreneur exemplifies perseverance and strategic vision. Perlman, who saw real estate as a way out of poverty from a young age, went from representing investors to becoming one herself, motivated by a desire for knowledge and financial independence. With an MBA from MIT, she founded Blue Lake Capital, quickly acquiring multi-family properties in key markets and amassing a portfolio worth $92 million while managing over 2,000 apartment units.
Perlman built a large network of investors through social media, networking, and her podcast, REady2Scale, demonstrating her expertise and establishing her brand as a trusted industry leader. Perlman’s contributions to Forbes Councils cemented her reputation as an expert in her field, increasing visibility and attracting potential investors. Her journey demonstrates the value of perseverance, strategic networking, and using platforms like Forbes Councils to amplify one’s brand and accelerate success in the competitive world of real estate investing.
Ellie Perlman
WalNG
Software Engineer
Future Tech Enterprise’s CEO, Bob Venero, runs a global IT solutions provider that specialises in cutting-edge technologies such as 3D printing and augmented reality. He envisions e-sports as a platform for developing the skills of tomorrow’s workforce. Venero is especially enthusiastic about collaborative virtual reality, which has the potential to transform industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and defence.
As a member of the Forbes Technology Council, he values the exchange of ideas and perspectives, and he credits the council with exceeding his expectations by providing valuable support and advice for his business decisions. Venero believes his membership has benefited not only Future Tech but also its employees and customers, allowing them to experiment with new go-to-market strategies and stay ahead of the rapidly changing technology landscape.
Bob Venero
WalNG
Software Engineer
Aaron Alejandro’s nearly two-decade tenure as executive director of the Texas FFA Foundation demonstrates his commitment to empowering agricultural science educators and students. Under his leadership, the foundation has grown dramatically, with a budget exceeding $1 million and annual awards and scholarships totalling over $2.3 million. Alejandro ensures that educators gain invaluable insights and networks to enrich their classroom experiences through innovative programmes such as a transformative teacher leadership training initiative.
Recognising the importance of creativity and innovation in agriculture, Alejandro promotes the development of entrepreneurial skills among students, preparing them to meet the future’s pressing food demands. His involvement with the Forbes Nonprofit Council not only raises his organization’s profile but also facilitates knowledge sharing, which benefits over 2,400 agricultural science teachers and thousands of FFA members in Texas. Alejandro’s commitment to fostering excellence and resourcefulness demonstrates his belief in working with the best and sharing insights to inspire transformative ‘aha!’ moments in both students and educators.
Aaron Alejandro
WalNG
Software Engineer
Jason Saltzman, Alley’s founder and CEO, understands the importance of community in entrepreneurship. Alley, a post-incubator shared workspace, goes beyond co-working spaces by providing entrepreneurs with valuable resources from large companies such as Verizon, allowing for early adoption of technologies such as 5G.
Saltzman highlights the collaboration between Alley and Forbes Councils, both exclusive communities that provide unique opportunities for business growth, leadership development, and thought leadership publication on Forbes.com. Forbes Council forums provide a valuable platform for connection and support, fostering camaraderie among members facing similar challenges and circumstances.
Jason Saltzman
WalNG
Software Engineer
April Armstrong’s rise from a corporate executive at SAIC to the founder of AHA Insight exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship. After two decades at SAIC, she recognised the changing landscape and took advantage of the opportunity to start her own business, backed by a decade of financial planning and strategic coaching. Her transition was remarkably smooth, thanks to her ability to identify urgent client needs and build a network of top-tier consultants to take on specific projects.
Armstrong brings her experience managing high-stakes technology and strategy initiatives to AHA Insight, where she serves clients from federal government agencies and corporations. Her unique approach entails assembling a “guild” of carefully selected consultants, allowing her to provide tailored solutions while maintaining a lean operational structure. Joining the Forbes Coaches Council provided Armstrong with invaluable thought leadership and networking opportunities, allowing her to establish credibility, publish relevant articles, and seek guidance and support from a collaborative network of experienced professionals.