Thomas “TJ” Loftin has been recognized as a multi-Award-winning multidimensional global business leader, Celebrity Car Builder, Inventor, Auto Parts Manufacturer, Real Estate and Land Development expert, preeminent Gentrification expert, published Author, Public Speaker, and Wealth Coach. Since the age of 9 years-old, TJ was under the tutelage of highly-esteemed local business leaders of Compton, California who influenced him on the importance of ownership, community, and entrepreneurship. TJ opened his first brick and mortar business at the age of 21. It would be the first of many  successful businesses (Express Gold Plating, Compton Wire Wheels and Molded Suspension). His innovations and business acumen allowed him to establish low riding as a bonafide industry, with international recognition through the entertainment industry via music videos, commercials, and movies, most notably the mega hit film, Straight Outta Compton. Transitioning from building cars and selling the businesses, TJ delved into the hot California real estate market. As a mortgage broker and land developer in 2002, he partook in investing in the newly up-and-coming city of Palmdale, California, a suburb of Los Angeles. It was also there that he first confronted gentrification in-the-making. Having acquired large amounts of real estate in the Antelope Valley, TJ was instrumental in helping community leaders to organize a successful lawsuit against the city which later became known as the “Antelope Valley Section 8 Scandal”. His influence was key to furthering Entrepreneurship and Real Estate Ownership in Los Angeles County for years to come. In an effort to give back and rebuild his community, TJ returned to Compton and became an advisor to the Compton and Inglewood School Districts. There he helped to bring in community partners like Dr. Dre and Master P who donated over $200 million to rebuild Compton High School and completely renovate TJ’s beloved auto shop class at Centennial High School. He also became the unofficial director at Tomorrow’s Aeronautical Museum where his relationship with the Black College Expo opened the door for the implementation of aviation classes in schools nationwide. As the Founder and President of the Leimert Park Vendor’s Association, he was the first to identify and wage war against gentrification in Southern California. During this time, he became a close friend and advisor to Dr. Sebi, who personally endorsed TJ and persuaded him to travel and share his expertise internationally. TJ’s travels compelled him to write his self-published, best-seller “Monetizing Gentrification: Building Black Ownership.” Currently, TJ manufactures classic car parts, offers master classes in land development, entrepreneurship, and real estate, as well as coaching on each topic. He’s evolved a well-renowned public speaking career_ keynote speeches, panel discussions, lectures, training workshops, national tours, and supporting educational products.  His remarkable work within business, education, and community has led to his being honored by businesses and associations local to Atlanta, Georgia and at the 2023 15th Annual West Coast Hip Hop Awards.  He remains hands-on with the low rider industry by being an advisor to the National Low Rider Association (NLRA).  More honors are anticipated as he continues to make his mark globally.  His mantra, “Creating Entrepreneurs, Not Employees!” definitely reigns supreme!