Honoring Black History Month with Employee Stories – Lincoln Payne

This story is from Lincoln Payne,  Store Manager at National Pawn, he shares about his inspiring diverse background and how his skills have transitioned well at National Pawn.  Lincoln’s National Pawn career has also progressed in the past 4 years.

“I am a martials arts instructor and veteran of the U.S. Army. I was born and raised a Military brat and have been fortunate enough to have traveled the world.  In doing so, I was able to develop a sense of community larger than most. My biggest notorieties stem from working as a martial arts trainer since the age of 13 in the Philippines.  I carried my skillset with me to the U.S. in the early 1990’s where I focused my training efforts toward battered women shelters and children. This opened the door for me to also work and train both police officers and federal agents. This opportunity led me to a 7-year stent of voluntary service where I continued focusing my efforts on women’s shelters and alternative schools. From this, I developed a true sense of philanthropy. From there, I joined the armed forces, ending my military career as a training officer at Fort Jackson SC. 

My experiences have really given me focus and allowed me to transition between my younger single-minded self and my current persona. After a successful 15+ year run as an entertainment manager and HR consultant, I have found myself here at National Pawn. Looking back, on the major influences of my younger eager mind; with hindsight being 20/20, I found that my motivators have always been helping, training, and being a positive influence on people.

I believe in the idea that as a pawnbroker you dabble in the practices of giving back. While working at National Pawn, I’ve embraced the notion that you are being a steward of community activism. With this mentality, you have created opportunities to meet many new people. Additionally, you work alongside individuals who also care about improving their surroundings which allow you to broaden your network of friends.

Looking to the future, I am working towards attaining my Doctoral in Psychology. Where I plan to use my newly acquired skills to continue helping others.”