Couple bring unique events to town
“My hope is that individuals will see the value and understand the worth in the opportunities that we bring to Texarkana.”
— Leotora Rose Watson
TEXARKANA — Leotora Rose Watson and Ryan Robinson are using their platform to bring one-of-akind events to the region.
Their goal is to bring events to their hometown of Texarkana that otherwise would be found in areas like Shreveport, Dallas and Little Rock. The two have produced events such as the Rhythm and Blues Fools show with Ginuwine at the Dapper in Texarkana, Arkansas, and the Craig Hodges Basketball Camp and Clinic on Monday at Arkansas High School.
“No matter where I go or what I do in life, Texarkana USA will always be my home. … No other place in America compares to Texarkana. Overall, Texarkana USA is the light at the end of the tunnel for any entrepreneur or innovator that’s willing to put in the proper work for good success,” Watson said, adding that that through technology, events and outings, she has been able to maintain relationships that enable her to pursue her career in Texarkana.
Watson and Robinson grew up in the Texarkana area but did not meet until later in life, despite running in a similar circle of friends in high school. They’ve known each other for 12 years, but have been together for 10 and married for six.
Both grew up in households where their parents owned businesses. Being exposed to entrepreneurship at a young age left an imprint on them.
“Even as a young girl I remember wanting to be a business woman. So here I am, well on my way,” Watson said.
Watson is a full time agent advisor, owns a consulting business for inventors, and is an advisor for business development and expansion. Robinson is a realtor with Harold Carter Realty and also a branch manager with Rocket Mortgage. He also owns Tax 100 LLC.
When she was in business entertainment school, Watson made creative videos about basketball and fashion for her assignments. That led to invitations to professional basketball combines to showcase her videography skills for international and WNBA scouts and agents.
Currently, she has male and female players signed with Gifts and Talents Agency LLC. Her most recent venture is a book titled “A Read to Remember” to be published in September.
Watson and Robinson have two children that can be found nearby even when the two are working. It’s a family-friendly atmosphere at the offices, and they aim to set good examples for the children, who already have their own business.
“My hope is that individuals will see the value and understand the worth in the opportunities that we bring to Texarkana,” Watson said. “A legacy is only as good as the integrity that’s deposited within.”