“My job is to fund your dream; your job is to find your dream.”
With that powerful message, two-time Super Bowl Champion and former Denver Bronco Rod Smith set the tone for a day centered on ambition, purpose, and community unity.
Last month, the Colorado Beautillion-Cotillion, in partnership with Denver Urban Spectrum, hosted the Brunch of Champions—an uplifting, full-capacity event dedicated to empowering young people. While the mission focused on youth, the audience reflected a full village of adults committed to supporting the next generation.
For 15 years, Beautillion-Cotillion founder Cheryl Carter has cultivated a transformative environment for Colorado youth. Her longstanding program equips young men and women with skills in etiquette, financial literacy, personal development, and, most importantly, the confidence to pursue their dreams.
This year’s panel brought together an impressive roster of “Champions,” each offering hard-earned wisdom and candid insights. Alongside Smith, panelists included Dr. Anne Garrett Mills, Coach Sydney Price, Captain Stephanie Lang, Drew Davis, and Squizzy Taylor. Their collective advice — rooted in lived experience — provided attendees with practical tools and life-changing guidance.
Special guest Dr. Farrah Gray, a renowned entrepreneur and best-selling author, delivered one of the event’s most heartfelt messages. Gray, who began selling painted rocks at age six in his Chicago neighborhood, became the nation’s youngest self-made millionaire by age 14. Sharing his journey from humble beginnings on Chicago’s South Side to national acclaim, he urged youth to “live aloud” and believe in their capacity to rise as high as their ambitions will take them.
A highlight of the afternoon was the Student Shark Tank competition, where young entrepreneurs pitched their business ideas with confidence and creativity. Winners received cash prizes ranging from $250 to $500, reinforcing the program’s commitment not just to inspiration, but to real opportunity.
The event’s vibrant atmosphere was sustained by a dedicated team: Ivan Gaskin energized the crowd, Phoenix Jackson kept the audience engaged, Brother Jeff uplifted spirits, and DJ Fedorah kept the music flowing. The brunch featured dishes from Maggiano’s Italian Restaurant, Smokehouse Meats, Grill Mama’s Eatery, King Mama Joy’s Creole Catering, and The Cake Bar.
The Brunch of Champions succeeded in bringing the community together to celebrate the greatness within each young person — and to remind them that with support, encouragement, and perseverance, they can soar as high as their dreams will take them.
Editor’s note: The Brunch of Champions was supported by The Denver Foundation.
