A conversation on HBCU legacy, faith-driven leadership, and turning self-awareness into a global movement rooted in community and purpose.
A proud graduate of Tuskegee University, Drew Sanders is redefining what it means to build a brand with intention. As the founder of The Aware Brand, Sanders blends creativity, spirituality, and community engagement to spark conversations around self-awareness, love, and collective growth. Rooted in lessons learned at his HBCU and guided by faith, patience, and purpose, his journey reflects the power of building from the inside out. In this interview, Sanders opens up about entrepreneurship, legacy, and why awareness remains at the core of everything he creates.
What HBCU did you attend, and what three key lessons or principles did you learn there that continue to strengthen and guide you as an entrepreneur? How do you apply those principles in your daily life and business journey?
I attended Tuskegee University, and it taught me many lessons that still guide me today. Three key principles stand out: patience, the importance of community, and effective communication. Navigating an HBCU environment—whether dealing with the registrar, financial aid, or professors—teaches you how to communicate with people at all levels and advocate for yourself. I apply these lessons daily by building a strong community, remaining patient with my entrepreneurial process, and communicating clearly and intentionally. Tuskegee helped shape me into a better leader and businessman.
What does sisterhood, brotherhood, or community engagement mean to you as an HBCU alum and business leader? What three core principles keep you grounded in your relationships and your work?
It means everything to me. At HBCUs, you truly rely on your brothers, sisters, and community—and that doesn’t change when you step into entrepreneurship. Community is essential for growth and sustainability. The three core principles that keep me grounded are leading with love, working hard, and keeping God at the forefront of everything I do.
What are the top three things that motivate you to be an entrepreneur? How do you stay encouraged, even on challenging days?
What motivates me most is impact, creative expression, and legacy. I love building from scratch and bringing to life ideas that I believe God has placed within me. I’m motivated by the ability to make a positive impact, express myself authentically, and leave something meaningful behind for my loved ones and the people my work touches. On challenging days, I return to my why—which is serving and uplifting my community.
How did you choose your industry, and what does it mean to you personally and professionally to be a leader in this field as an HBCU graduate?
In many ways, I chose this industry as a child. I always knew I would be working in entertainment or creativity, but over time that calling evolved. Today, the work I do uses entertainment as a tool to empower and elevate humanity. As an HBCU graduate, it means a lot to represent that legacy and show that there are multiple ways to create impact. HBCUs produce some of the most talented, innovative, and purpose-driven professionals in the world, and I’m proud to be a reflection of that.
How did you choose the name of your business or organization, and what significance does it hold for your mission and the work you do?
The name came from reading The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success by Deepak Chopra, where he spoke extensively about awareness. One night, I woke up from my sleep, wrote the word “Aware” in my journal, and moved on it. The significance of the name reflects the heart of my mission: building awareness—of self, of others, of the world around us, and ultimately of the God-power that lives within each of us.
What would you like people to know about supporting your business? What is one tangible action readers can take today to support you?
When people support my business, they’re supporting a mission rooted in love, unity, and awareness. They’re supporting a movement they can be part of, not just a product or an event. Whether it’s through clothing or experiences, the goal is to empower people and spark meaningful conversations within their own communities. A tangible way to support is to engage, share the message, and show up—online, at events, and in everyday conversations.
What would you tell aspiring entrepreneurs, especially fellow HBCU graduates, about the real difficulties and challenges of entrepreneurship that people don’t always talk about?
Stick to the vision no matter what. There will be obstacles, uncertainty, and moments of doubt, but patience and consistency are key. I encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to shift their perspective—don’t see challenges as problems, but as opportunities to learn, grow, and become a better entrepreneur.
When you’re facing a difficult day, what do you say or do to remind yourself that you can keep going and show up again tomorrow?
I’ve had my fair share of difficult days. There isn’t one specific phrase I repeat, but I often look back at how far I’ve come. That reflection reminds me that God has carried me this far, so why would He fail me now? I allow myself to feel what I’m feeling, but I don’t stay there. I regroup, trust God, and keep moving forward.
After you’ve reached a milestone or hosted a successful event, what is your favorite way to relax, unwind, and celebrate?
Honestly, I keep it simple. Sometimes that looks like grabbing a good meal, spending time with loved ones, or just enjoying quiet time alone. It really depends on the moment. I’ll also say I’m learning to get better at truly celebrating my wins and honoring the work it took to get there.
How do you maintain motivation and optimism during the ups and downs of running your business?
I’m naturally self-motivated, so staying driven comes easily. To stay optimistic, I lean on mentors and peers who’ve already navigated highs and lows—people like Munson Steed. Hearing their journeys and how they made it through challenging seasons reminds me that the ups and downs are part of the process.
What is your favorite quote or mantra that keeps you grounded and focused when times get tough?
Whenever I find myself overthinking, I go back to something my mom always told me: “Just do it.” That simple reminder helps me break through hesitation and take action.
Why is self-care important for entrepreneurs, and how do you prioritize your well-being while growing your business?
Self-care is essential because burnout is real. If you’re not at your best, everything connected to you can suffer. I prioritize my mental, spiritual, physical, and emotional health so I can show up regulated, present, and whole—not just for my business, but for the people I serve.
Why is teamwork important for entrepreneurs, and how do you build and maintain strong partnerships or collaborations in your business?
Teamwork is built on clear communication, healthy boundaries, and shared values. Strong partnerships come from understanding the people you work with and aligning around ethics, vision, and purpose. When values overlap, collaboration becomes sustainable and impactful.
