Meet Elijah Ray | Co-fouder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elijah Ray and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elijah, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
It’s quite ironic how Bridge The Gap started, as we never anticipated it would go this far. I, Elijah Ray (Eli), approached Jacob, Gabby, and Tamara with the idea of hosting a pop-up shop. After some conversations, we quickly realized that Bridge The Gap could be much more. We recognized a void in the community and felt it would be a disservice to offer this support, insight, and camaraderie only once a year.

What should our readers know about your business?
We’ve only been established since the beginning of the year, and let me say, it’s been a journey—one that has allowed me to grow tremendously, from stepping out of my comfort zone to becoming a better leader. Two crucial lessons I’ve taken from this experience so far are the power of collaboration—because you will always achieve more by working together, whether partnering with organizations like we did for our giveaway with 10for10 and Kash Kutz Barbershop to working together everyday to bring clients visions to reality —and the importance of taking initiative on your vision. You see it for a reason; now it’s up to you to believe in it and take action to achieve it.
One thing I want the world to know is that BTG is here to stay and make a change. For too long, BIPOC professionals have placed a ceiling on our own growth due to the belief that there is “only so much” support, resources, or opportunities available to us. That ends now. We are bridging the cultural gap by making support more visible, resources more accessible, and creating more opportunities through workshops, internships, and shared expertise.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My best friend is coming to town for a week-long trip, and he knows we’re outside on the scene! First, we have to stop and get some catfish and shrimp from my favorite food truck in the city, Tastebud Bullies. I’m hoping it’s basketball season because I would love to catch a Nuggets game. We’ll end the night with a relaxing vibe at downtown’s rooftop bar, 54Thirty Rooftop, to wind down.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Of course, as they say, it takes a village! It’s difficult to pinpoint everyone who has helped us on our journey of building Bridge The Gap. The community, organizational partners, families, former teachers, and many others have all played a role in our success through their unconditional support, guidance, and willingness to lend a helping hand. I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported BTG CO. As we wouldn’t be where we are at today without you nor heading where we are heading.

Instagram: @bridgethegapcolorado

Linkedin: Bridge the Gap Colorado

Facebook: Bridge the Gap Colorado

Image Credits
Photography by: Skuba Vision Films