About Urban Elite Network

Our Story

Urban Elite Network’s roots run deep in the heart of Chicago’s South Side. Born from the experiences of our founder Marcus Fizer, in the Roseland area, our story is one of resilience, growth, and unwavering commitment to community empowerment.

In a neighborhood where resources were scarce, especially for young Black boys, our founder stood out. At St. Martin de Porres, he excelled in both academics and athletics, proving that talent and determination could thrive even in challenging environments. However, the harsh realities of urban life—drugs, violence, and limited opportunities—were never far away, shaping a vision for a better future.

The journey continued through college at Eastern Illinois University and graduate studies at the University of Illinois Springfield. These years brought new challenges, including confronting racist ideologies and navigating cultural shocks. These experiences, though difficult, provided invaluable lessons in perseverance and the importance of representation.

Post-graduation, the struggle to find meaningful work despite advanced degrees highlighted a gap between education and opportunity in underserved communities. It was during this time that a passion for photography emerged, opening doors to Chicago’s vibrant creative scene. From capturing the essence of local businesses to working with celebrities, each photograph told a story of urban potential often overlooked by mainstream media.

As our founder delved deeper into Chicago’s indie movie scene, the lack of guidance and mentorship became apparent. This realization sparked the idea for Urban Elite Network—a platform that would not only showcase talent but also provide the support and resources needed for success.

Urban Elite Network was born from this rich tapestry of experiences:

• The Online TV platform, giving voice to authentic stories often left untold.
• Urban Elite Magazine, showcasing local talent and businesses that deserve the spotlight.
• Grandpa’s Best Coffees, inspired by late nights in studios and on sets, fueling the next generation of creators.

Each component of Urban Elite Network addresses a need observed firsthand in our community—for representation, for opportunity, for support, and for a platform that understands and elevates urban excellence.

Today, Urban Elite Network stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of creating the changes we wish to see in our communities. We’re not just sharing stories; we’re changing narratives, opening doors, and building a legacy of empowerment for generations to come.

Our Mission

At Urban Elite Network, we’re on a mission to rewrite the narrative of urban communities. We believe in the power of authentic storytelling, mentorship, and accessible media to transform lives and businesses. Our platform is more than just a network; it’s a movement dedicated to showcasing the brilliance, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of our community.

What We Offer

• Urban Elite Network Online TV: A stage for authentic voices and stories that matter.
• Urban Elite Magazine: Showcasing local talent, businesses, and success stories.
• Grandpa’s Best Coffees: Fueling dreams and late-night creativity.

Our Commitment

We’re committed to:

• Empowering Through Information: Providing knowledge and tools for success in the digital age.
• Fostering Mentorship: Connecting aspiring talents with industry leaders who understand their journey.
• Amplifying Voices: Offering a platform for models, businesses, and creatives to shine authentically.
• Leveling the Playing Field: Making professional marketing and promotion accessible to small businesses.

Innovation at Our Core

In a rapidly evolving media landscape, we’re at the forefront of integrating AI and new technologies. Our goal? To amplify our community’s voice and reach households across the nation and beyond.

Join Our Movement

Urban Elite Network is more than a media company—it’s a catalyst for change. We’re proving that with the right platform and support, our community’s potential is limitless. Join us in shaping a future where every voice is heard, every talent is nurtured, and every dream has the opportunity to become reality.

Together, we’re not just telling stories; we’re changing the narrative.