The Calculated Risk: How a Lexington Native Found His Purpose

Born and raised in Lexington and growing up in Linwood, Holmes’s journey began with a strong sense of purpose. He graduated from Lexington Senior High School before heading to UNC-Charlotte, where he majored in finance. What makes his collegiate journey particularly remarkable is that he balanced a full-time job at Bank of America while pursuing his degree. This early display of dedication and a formidable work ethic foreshadowed the man he would become. Holmes attributes much of his success and his unwavering drive to his father, Ben Holmes Sr. As a single father, Holmes Sr. instilled in his sons, Ben and his brother Ahmad, the core values of business principles, teamwork, and leadership. These were not just abstract concepts, but lessons lived out daily, ensuring the boys were always involved in positive and productive activities.

While many might look to famous icons like Michael Jordan or Jay-Z for inspiration, Holmes’s idol has always been his father. This profound respect is a cornerstone of his character, shaping his ambition from a young age. Holmes recalls a moment in his childhood when he and his grandfather were driving past a construction site. Young Ben declared his desire to apply for a job on the spot, a story his grandfather would later share with pride, highlighting his grandson’s innate ambition. This drive translated into academic success, as Holmes took AP classes in high school to ensure he could attend his desired college.

Today, Holmes applies his principle-driven mindset in his professional life as a risk analyst for a Fortune 500 bank. His role is to evaluate market risks and balance sheet exposures, essentially ensuring the bank is prepared for any major shifts in the global landscape. “As a risk analyst, if there are things that could take a catastrophic shift in the world, my main job is to make sure our company is always prepared,” he explains. It’s a role that requires foresight, discipline, and a deep understanding of potential challenges—qualities he’s cultivated since childhood.

However, Holmes’s path wasn’t without its challenges. He openly shares that his twenties were his hardest phase, a time when he realized he had to change his lifestyle habits to achieve financial stability, focus, and a more grounded existence. A major part of that shift was prioritizing God and family. Holmes notes that when he placed his faith and family at the center of his life, everything else began to align. “Once I put God first and made sure my family came before everything else, I started to see real change,” he reflects. This period of introspection and change was crucial in shaping the man he is today.

Holmes also credits Mr. Donnie Holt as a great mentor who kept him on track both in and out of school. The support of his grandmothers, Ruth Holmes and Hellen Thorne, also played a vital role in his upbringing, helping his father shape him into the man he is today.

Today, beyond his corporate role, Holmes is passionate about helping others achieve financial literacy through his company, Boardroom Vision. He uses this platform to educate and empower individuals to make informed financial decisions and build lasting wealth. Additionally, Holmes is deeply committed to creating opportunities for affordable housing through his real estate ventures, ensuring that families—especially in underserved communities—can access safe, stable homes. “It’s about impact, not just income,” he emphasizes. “If I can help people understand money and create housing opportunities, I know I’m walking in my purpose.”