Darrel Nzzegge is a junior at Central State University whose journey has transformed adversity into empowerment. At just 20 years old, Nzzegge is an entrepreneur, a dedicated student, and a community advocate driven by his personal experiences and the desire to uplift others.
A Journey of Resilience
Nzzegee’s journey toward entrepreneurship began in Columbus, Ohio, where he faced significant challenges growing up. Between the ages of 11 and 13, his family experienced homelessness, sharing a single car and living in cramped conditions. This struggle ignited a passion for service in Nzzegge. He started volunteering at his uncle’s church food pantry, witnessing firsthand the joy and relief a simple meal could bring families in need. “Those times made me the man I am today,” Nzzegge reflects. “To see others with smiles on their face being able to help give back meant more than community service or anything else.”
The lessons learned during this challenging period motivated Nzzegge to give back once his family regained stability. By age 17, he was planning clothing drives, food drives, and school supply giveaways on his birthday, ensuring that those in need would receive support and encouragement.
What It Means To Ball Out
His aspirations led him to Central State University, a place he considers pivotal in his growth. Here, he launched Ballout Worldwide, a clothing brand with a mission far beyond fashion. The name “Ballout” reminds him that everyone has the power to succeed. The brand is significant to him, as he dedicates his work to four friends he lost in high school. “This isn’t just my dream; it was ours,” he states proudly. “Ballout means more than fashion to me. It’s me being able to spread motivation in a fashionable sense for the world to see.”
He has balanced his time at CSU between academics and athletics, participating in the football and track teams and engaging in various campus organizations. “Our HBCU helped me mold into a man I dreamed to be with furthering my business, being involved within my school government, & also the willingness to place smiles on others’ faces,” he shares.
Pushing Forward
Despite the challenges of being a student-athlete, Nzzegge has continually pushed forward. He has served as an emcee and host, learning that effective communication extends beyond the mic. He says it’s about who you are away from a microphone.
Nzzegge’s proudest moment is hosting the annual Ballout Giveback event on his birthday. This initiative brings together resources and support for those in need, reflecting his commitment to helping others succeed. As he looks to the future, Nzzegge aims to graduate and pursue a Master’s degree while evolving his clothing line.
Darrel Nzzegge is not just molding his future; he’s uplifting a community. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and the belief that we all can “ball out” in our lives.