RANDOLPH X THE BROOKLYN CIRCUS

Randolph x BKc Aviator - 22k Black Gold & Coastal Gray

Randolph x BKc Aviator - 22k Black Gold & Nimbus

Randolph x BKc P3 Fusion - 22k Black Gold & Coastal Gray

Randolph x BKc P3 Fusion - 22k Black Gold & Nimbus

Randolph and The Brooklyn Circus have created a capsule collection that shares the history of the first African American officers in the U.S. Navy. Together, let’s honor the courage and resilience of the Golden 13—trailblazers who defied racial barriers and paved the way for future generations.

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In January 1944, the Navy began an officer training course for 16 African-American enlisted men. To ensure their failure, the normal training period of 16 weeks was reduced to 8 weeks for the black cadets. When they realized that someone in the Navy wanted them to wash out, the cadets covered up the windows of their barracks and studied all night. When they were tested, the entire group passed with high marks. Disbelief in the chain of command that an all-black cadet class could achieve higher scores than an all-white one meant that the black sailors had to suffer the indignity of retaking their tests. Again, all 16 passed; the class average at graduation was 3.89. This led to the establishment of the Golden 13—the first African American enlisted men to become commissioned and warrant officers of the United States Navy.
In January 1944, the Navy began an officer training course for 16 African-American enlisted men. To ensure their failure, the normal training period of 16 weeks was reduced to 8 weeks for the black cadets. When they realized that someone in the Navy wanted them to wash out, the cadets covered up the windows of their barracks and studied all night. When they were tested, the entire group passed with high marks. Disbelief in the chain of command that an all-black cadet class could achieve higher scores than an all-white one meant that the black sailors had to suffer the indignity of retaking their tests. Again, all 16 passed; the class average at graduation was 3.89. This led to the establishment of the Golden 13—the first African American enlisted men to become commissioned and warrant officers of the United States Navy.

The Tate Family: A Legacy of Perseverance

The Tate family embodies the resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit of the Golden 13. Howard Tate, a dedicated storyteller and educator, has long believed in the power of narrative to inspire, preserve history, and drive change. Throughout his career, he faced challenges—doors that wouldn’t open, opportunities that seemed just out of reach. But like the Golden 13, he refused to be defined by limitations. Instead, he honed his craft, pushed forward, and built a foundation of perseverance that would become a guiding force for his family.

That legacy of resilience lives on in his son, Malik. Initially working in the food and beverage industry, Malik found himself yearning for a different path—one where creativity and leadership would shape his future. Inspired by the work ethic and perseverance instilled in him by his father, Malik remained determined, putting in the effort and proving himself through hard work and

dedication. His persistence led him to a dream opportunity at The Brooklyn Circus, where he quickly rose through the ranks, ultimately becoming Director of Operations.

The Tate family’s journey reflects the essence of the Golden 13—not just overcoming obstacles but paving the way for others to follow. Howard’s influence on Malik is a testament to the generational impact of resilience and vision. Much like the Golden 13, who shattered barriers so others could rise, Howard and Malik have demonstrated that perseverance and purpose can redefine one’s destiny. Their story is a reminder that true leadership is not just about personal success but about inspiring those who come next.

The Tate family embodies the resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit of the Golden 13. Howard Tate, a dedicated storyteller and educator, has long believed in the power of narrative to inspire, preserve history, and drive change. Throughout his career, he faced challenges—doors that wouldn’t open, opportunities that seemed just out of reach. But like the Golden 13, he refused to be defined by limitations. Instead, he honed his craft, pushed forward, and built a foundation of perseverance that would become a guiding force for his family.

That legacy of resilience lives on in his son, Malik. Initially working in the food and beverage industry, Malik found himself yearning for a different path—one where creativity and leadership would shape his future. Inspired by the work ethic and perseverance instilled in him by his father, Malik remained determined, putting in the effort and proving himself through hard work and dedication. His persistence led him to a dream opportunity at The Brooklyn Circus, where he quickly rose through the ranks, ultimately becoming Director of Operations.

The Tate family’s journey reflects the essence of the Golden 13—not just overcoming obstacles but paving the way for others to follow. Howard’s influence on Malik is a testament to the generational impact of resilience and vision. Much like the Golden 13, who shattered barriers so others could rise, Howard and Malik have demonstrated that perseverance and purpose can redefine one’s destiny. Their story is a reminder that true leadership is not just about personal success but about inspiring those who come next.

The Theodore Family: Building a Century of Legacy

Ouigi Theodore, Founder and Creative Director of The Brooklyn Circus, carries a vision that extends far beyond fashion. He is driven by a '100-Year Plan'—a long-term commitment to shaping culture, empowering communities, and ensuring that Black excellence continues to flourish for generations. Much like the Golden 13, who paved the way for future leaders through resilience and courage, Ouigi’s plan is about laying the foundation for a legacy that will inspire and uplift for a century and beyond.

Coming from a military family, with both his sister and brother-in-law having served in the Navy, Ouigi grew up with discipline and structure ingrained in his life. His own path nearly led him to Naval Officer School, but instead, he found his calling in creative expression and storytelling. He built The Brooklyn Circus as a tribute to his heritage, infusing military inspiration with fashion, culture, and historical storytelling.

At the heart of Ouigi’s journey is family. His wife, Lillie, a state attorney, embodies the values of history, heritage, and justice. Together, they are raising their son, Herro, with a deep sense of unity, resilience, and responsibility—values that echo those of the Golden 13.

Though their upbringings were different, their shared commitment to family and legacy ensures that Herro grows up knowing the power of community, history, and perseverance.

Howard Tate, a longtime mentor to Ouigi, instilled in him the importance of uplifting the next generation. This mentorship came full circle when Ouigi, inspired by organizations like Jack and Jill, took on the responsibility of mentoring Malik Tate. Howard had long brought Malik to The Brooklyn Circus, ensuring he was exposed to leadership, creativity, and purpose. Through this connection, Malik learned the value of community-building and dedication, eventually earning his place within The Brooklyn Circus and rising to Director of Operations.

Ouigi’s story, like that of the Golden 13, is about breaking barriers, fostering leadership, and creating opportunities for those who follow. His 100-Year Plan is more than a vision—it is a movement, ensuring that future generations have the space to dream, build, and lead.

Ouigi Theodore, Founder and Creative Director of The Brooklyn Circus, carries a vision that extends far beyond fashion. He is driven by a '100-Year Plan'—a long-term commitment to shaping culture, empowering communities, and ensuring that Black excellence continues to flourish for generations. Much like the Golden 13, who paved the way for future leaders through resilience and courage, Ouigi’s plan is about laying the foundation for a legacy that will inspire and uplift for a century and beyond.

Coming from a military family, with both his sister and brother-in-law having served in the Navy, Ouigi grew up with discipline and structure ingrained in his life. His own path nearly led him to Naval Officer School, but instead, he found his calling in creative expression and storytelling. He built The Brooklyn Circus as a tribute to his heritage, infusing military inspiration with fashion, culture, and historical storytelling.

At the heart of Ouigi’s journey is family. His wife, Lillie, a state attorney, embodies the values of history, heritage, and justice. Together, they are raising their son, Herro, with a deep sense of unity, resilience, and responsibility—values that echo those of the Golden 13. Though their upbringings were different, their shared commitment to family and legacy ensures that Herro grows up knowing the power of community, history, and perseverance.

Howard Tate, a longtime mentor to Ouigi, instilled in him the importance of uplifting the next generation. This mentorship came full circle when Ouigi, inspired by organizations like Jack and Jill, took on the responsibility of mentoring Malik Tate. Howard had long brought Malik to The Brooklyn Circus, ensuring he was exposed to leadership, creativity, and purpose. Through this connection, Malik learned the value of community-building and dedication, eventually earning his place within The Brooklyn Circus and rising to Director of Operations.

Ouigi’s story, like that of the Golden 13, is about breaking barriers, fostering leadership, and creating opportunities for those who follow. His 100-Year Plan is more than a vision—it is a movement, ensuring that future generations have the space to dream, build, and lead.

The Felipe Family: A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice

For the Felipe family, resilience and commitment are more than ideals—they are a way of life. Josh Felipe’s journey into military service was inspired by his uncle, a retired Army veteran, and by the events of 9/11. With a deep sense of duty, he stepped forward to serve, embodying the same perseverance and courage that defined the Golden 13.

However, his greatest test of resilience came not in the military, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he and Hayley were separated from their newborn son due to international travel restrictions. This period of uncertainty tested their faith and strength as a family, yet they remained steadfast. Through patience, unwavering love, and support, they endured, proving that resilience isn’t just about overcoming obstacles—it’s about standing strong together.

Josh and Hayley’s story is one of dedication—to family, to legacy, and to the future. With roots in both South Africa and the U.S., they embrace the importance of heritage, unity, and perseverance. Their vision extends beyond the present, ensuring that their children grow up understanding the power of sacrifice and the strength that comes from overcoming adversity.

Much like the Golden 13, who paved the way for those who would come after them, the Felipes are committed to building a foundation that extends through generations. Their story serves as a reminder that resilience, service, and love create the strongest legacies.

For the Felipe family, resilience and commitment are more than ideals—they are a way of life. Josh Felipe’s journey into military service was inspired by his uncle, a retired Army veteran, and by the events of 9/11. With a deep sense of duty, he stepped forward to serve, embodying the same perseverance and courage that defined the Golden 13.

However, his greatest test of resilience came not in the military, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he and Hayley were separated from their newborn son due to international travel restrictions. This period of uncertainty tested their faith and strength as a family, yet they remained steadfast. Through patience, unwavering love, and support, they endured, proving that resilience isn’t just about overcoming obstacles—it’s about standing strong together.

Josh and Hayley’s story is one of dedication—to family, to legacy, and to the future. With roots in both South Africa and the U.S., they embrace the importance of heritage, unity, and perseverance. Their vision extends beyond the present, ensuring that their children grow up understanding the power of sacrifice and the strength that comes from overcoming adversity.

Much like the Golden 13, who paved the way for those who would come after them, the Felipes are committed to building a foundation that extends through generations. Their story serves as a reminder that resilience, service, and love create the strongest legacies.

Derek Smith: Rising Above Adversity

Derek Smith's journey is one of perseverance, shaped by life’s challenges and the unwavering strength that defines true resilience. A survivor of cancer and life-altering injuries, he has faced some of the toughest battles imaginable. Yet, much like the Golden 13, who stood firm in the face of overwhelming challenges, Derek refused to let adversity define him. Instead, he found strength in his journey, pushing forward with determination and unwavering courage.

Completing the New York Marathon after overcoming significant health struggles stands as a testament to his perseverance. His journey mirrors the essence of the Golden 13—turning obstacles into milestones, proving that the human spirit can endure and triumph.

Family and tradition serve as Derek’s foundation, reinforcing his belief that resilience is not just an individual pursuit but a legacy passed down through generations. By demonstrating the power of persistence and self-belief, Derek ensures that his story, like that of the Golden 13, will inspire and uplift those who follow in his footsteps.

Derek Smith's journey is one of perseverance, shaped by life’s challenges and the unwavering strength that defines true resilience. A survivor of cancer and life-altering injuries, he has faced some of the toughest battles imaginable. Yet, much like the Golden 13, who stood firm in the face of overwhelming challenges, Derek refused to let adversity define him. Instead, he found strength in his journey, pushing forward with determination and unwavering courage.

Completing the New York Marathon after overcoming significant health struggles stands as a testament to his perseverance. His journey mirrors the essence of the Golden 13—turning obstacles into milestones, proving that the human spirit can endure and triumph. Family and tradition serve as Derek’s foundation, reinforcing his belief that resilience is not just an individual pursuit but a legacy passed down through generations. By demonstrating the power of persistence and self-belief, Derek ensures that his story, like that of the Golden 13, will inspire and uplift those who follow in his footsteps.

HISTORY. HERITAGE. AMERICAN. UNITY.