A business that began with $230 and 24 sweaters has grown into a six-figure fashion company. For [Clark Atlanta University](http://www.cau.edu) student and entrepreneur Kuan Jackson, that growth represents more than business success. It reflects a family story, a commitment to community, and the belief that meaningful ideas are worth pursuing.

Jackson, founder of [PERFIK CIRCO](https://perfikcirco.com/), is bringing that vision to a national audience as a featured entrepreneur in Season 6 of [REVOLT’s “Bet on Black](https://www.revolt.tv/article/bet-on-black-season-six-premiere-trailer),” presented by Target and hosted by Marsai Martin. The series highlights emerging Black entrepreneurs and their businesses, including student founders from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

**A Family Story Becomes a Business**

The inspiration for PERFIK CIRCO began during Jackson’s sophomore year of high school, when his father shared a story with him and his older brother about a group of friends who aspired to become a perfect circle. Having already envisioned starting a fashion company, Jackson asked his father if he could use the name.

The brand’s name reflects both his family history and New Orleans upbringing. “PERFIK” draws from the way his hometown pronounces the word perfect, while “CIRCO” represents the circle of people who surround and support one another.

The company’s mission, Strive to be PERFIK, including the ones in your CIRCO, centers on personal growth and collective success.

“I started PERFIK CIRCO with just $230 and 24 sweaters. Today, I've grown that same idea into a six-figure fashion business. What began as something rooted in my father's story has become a vehicle for bringing people together,” Jackson said.

His selection for “Bet on Black” marked another milestone in the company's growth, providing national exposure for the brand and an opportunity to connect with other emerging entrepreneurs.

“Being selected for ‘Bet on Black’ was evidence that the seeds I planted years ago were beginning to bear fruit,” Jackson said. “It reminded me that the belief I had in myself long before anyone knew my name was worth holding on to.”

**Finding His Confidence and Community at CAU**

Jackson's entrepreneurial development has also been shaped by his experience at Clark Atlanta University. Although he once questioned whether college was the right path for him, he credits CAU with broadening his perspective and strengthening his confidence.

“I genuinely believe that the version of Kuan the world experiences today might still be hiding in a shell had I not attended this institution,” he said.

Surrounded by students pursuing ambitious goals, Jackson developed a greater appreciation for the possibilities available to him and the importance of supporting others along the way.

“One philosophy I live by is that you cannot become your best self by yourself,” Jackson said. “Every professor who has encouraged me, every student who has supported my business, and every person who has poured into me has contributed to the man I'm becoming.”

That sense of community extends beyond his campus experience. During CAU's 2026 Homecoming, REVOLT and Target brought a Season 6 “[Bet on Black” activation](https://www.revolt.tv/article/bet-on-black-season-6-cau-homecoming-event) to campus, connecting the series with students and alumni. The activation further highlighted the role of HBCUs in supporting emerging entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for the next generation of Black business leaders.

**Representing CAU on a National Stage**

Participating in “Bet on Black” gave Jackson an opportunity to represent his family, hometown, and university before a national audience. At 20 years old, he joined other young founders building businesses across various industries while pursuing their education. Filming continued through his 21st birthday, making the experience particularly memorable.

“When I represent CAU, I understand that I'm representing something much greater than myself,” Jackson said. “I'm carrying the belief, encouragement, and investment of everyone who helped me get here.”

Through the experience, Jackson hopes viewers recognize that PERFIK CIRCO is more than a fashion brand.

“Our brand exists for people who dare to dream, dare to be bold, and dare to create,” he said. “I want viewers to see the passion behind what I'm building and understand that this is only the beginning.”

**Advice for Aspiring Panther Entrepreneurs**

As Jackson prepares to graduate, he encourages fellow Panthers interested in entrepreneurship to reach for their dreams and pursue their ambitions.

“My advice to fellow Panthers comes down to three things: Believe in yourself, recognize the resources around you, and start now,” he said.

He emphasizes that a university community can be among a student's greatest resources, offering opportunities to establish relationships with potential collaborators, business partners, investors, and mentors.

“You don't have to wait until graduation, until you have more money, or until every detail makes sense,” Jackson said. “If there's an idea that continues to live in your heart, I believe there's a reason it was placed there.”

As his time at CAU comes to a close, Jackson's experience reflects the value of pursuing an idea, building meaningful relationships, and remaining open to opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.

“The world doesn't need you to have everything figured out. It needs you to have the courage to begin,” he said.

Season six of [REVOLT's “Bet on Black” premiered October 19](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFwUknyZRos) and features emerging entrepreneurs, highlighting the businesses and ambitions shaping the next generation of Black business leaders.

***Learn more about the*** [***Fashion Merchandising program at Clark Atlanta University***](https://www.cau.edu/academics/schools-departments/school-arts-sciences/arts-sciences-undergraduate-programs/fashion) ***and its approach to preparing students for careers in the fashion industry.***

  ![Two people smiling, sitting on a white couch in a warmly lit room with microphones.](/sites/default/files/styles/idfive_image_gallery/public/2026-11/Bet%20On%20Black%20-%20Next%20Gen%20%20%284%29%20%281%29.png?h=41bd4cb3&itok=ZRBkCJul)

  ![Kuan Jackson Bet on Black](/sites/default/files/styles/idfive_image_gallery/public/2026-11/26-08-29_REVOLT_BOB_S6_02107_1.jpg?h=68f2238e&itok=y7vriCo9)

  ![Kuan Jackson](/sites/default/files/styles/idfive_image_gallery/public/2026-11/26-08-29_REVOLT_BOB_S6_00622%20%281%29_0.jpg?h=d23f0869&itok=g0c1Uxr6)

  ![Kuan Jackson Bet on Black](/sites/default/files/styles/idfive_image_gallery/public/2026-11/26-08-29_REVOLT_BOB_S6_01837.jpg?h=d07d10a6&itok=yz9syNrb)

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## For Media Inquiries

For media inquiries please contact Clark Atlanta University at

 <communications@cau.edu>
 [404-703-2914](tel:404-703-2914)