SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — Since Dustin Sutton joined the real estate industry in 2008, he felt there was no one else like him.
He says the killing of George Floyd in 2020 inspired him to fight for diversity.
“No one is going to save me or save us,” Sutton said. If you notice that there is a problem, that something is happening, do something. ”
So he launched the Black Commercial Real Estate Network, also known as BCREN. This is a non-profit organization for Black professionals in the industry to come together and share their experiences. Sutton says this also creates room for mentoring the next generation of real estate agents.
“Commercial real estate transactions, employment opportunities. That's why it's important, and that's why we support people in their business endeavors and in their personal lives,” Sutton said.
BCREN started as a linkedin group with just 10 members. As word spread online, the group grew to more than 1,000 people nationwide, Sutton said.
“Personally, I feel more confident,” Sutton said. I think that's a big part. I get inspired when I see other people doing great things. ”
Sutton said BCREN meets monthly via Zoom or in person. Last year, the group inspired him to start his own commercial real estate firm in La Jolla called Sutton Real Estate Advisors.
