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Founder, Southern Trees Film Group

In Jack London's epic novel,The Call of the Wild, the lead character, Buck, begins the story as a domesticated dog that lives with a wealthy family in California. But once Buck is kidnapped and placed amongst vicious dogs, he's forced to adapt and his animal instincts become a tool for his survival. Gabriel Hart believes that Atlanta has a similar effect on young, black entrepreneurs who migrate to the city with the hopes of becoming successful.

"Everybody who comes to Atlanta hustles to get better," the Memphis native says. "As soon as you touch down, you get the rhythm of the city and you start to work. You can't be around all of this creativity and not be affected by it. You want to be a part of something great."

Hart became motivated by the city's greatness after seeing Atlanta music acts such as OutKast and Ludacris begin modestly and grow into world-renowned stars. After dabbling in music production, Hart started the Southern Film Group and eventually began filming for Evander Holyfield and Cynthia McKinney.

"I've learned so much from her," Hart says of Cynthia McKinney. "She taught me a lot and gave me the motivation to do more work." Hart recently directed singer Lil' Mo's new music video which features Jim Jones, and he's working on a comedic film entitled, Babyboy Go Get Your Hair Cut at the Last Dragon Barbershop This Friday.

"I'm convinced that anything can happen here [in Atlanta]," Harts says. "It's about knowing who you are and believing in yourself. - amir shaw

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