The story of Rising Above…The Henry Ike story , is a nod to Horatio Alger with it’s rags to riches theme and spans across two continents from Nigeria to the United States. Nigeria’s bad economy, financial problems, and a corrupt government forced Henry and his family to live in impoverished conditions. Despite their unfortunate living situation, they kept their spirits up, until another blow took place. Henry’s sister, Jane, was diagnosed with a life-threatening and rare disease. The medical system in their country was not equipped to handle such an unusual disorder, so they were granted a medical visa to the U.S to receive better treatment. With little money, they moved to Queens, New York where the housing was cheap and the neighborhood dangerous. A five hundred and fifty square foot rodent infested apartment was their new home. Desperation transformed into determination, as Henry set off on a mission to lessen his parent’s financial struggles. Surrounded by temptation for easy money to sell drugs, he knew the consequences were far worse and instead found an after-school job at a department store. The valuable business skills and discipline Henry acquired catapulted him to a top salesman position, but he wanted more. When he turned eighteen, he got his real estate license and worked tirelessly making deal after deal. His efforts paid off and money and success followed. Henry was grateful that he was finally able to help his parents. Good fortune also had its dark side. Money gave him power and plenty of choices. Indulgences like wild parties, beautiful women, and drugs were readily available, whenever he wanted. He also engaged in several bad business ventures, one of which led to an FBI investigation, imprisonment, and a costly legal battle. Another investment led to the loss of his entire fortune causing Henry to become depressed, suicidal, and physically ill. Rising Above is the story about a man who went to hell and back. The self-indulgent rich playboy lost himself and learned the hard way, but returned to his former glory better than ever. His success as a real estate developer is greater the second time around because his business model now includes community outreach programs that teach financial literacy and basic business skills to eradicate poverty and promote independence. When life knocks you down, you rise above.
