In Clarksdale, Mississippi, Brandon Sims is a jack of all trades.
Brandon is not only a licensed auto body repairman but also a locksmith, welder, and skilled in select upholstery fixes. His versatile skill set led him to launch Sims Autobody and Locksmith, serving Clarksdale and the surrounding areas. What truly sets Brandon apart, however, isn’t just his range of talents — it’s his commitment to addressing critical gaps in his community.
“Where I’m located, there aren’t many reliable auto body shops. I’ve been passionate about cars since I was young, and I enjoy working on and fixing them. And if someone locks their keys in their car, they usually have to wait hours for help to arrive from out of town. Having a local locksmith service here isn’t just about money — it’s about helping people.”
— Brandon Sims, Owner of Sims Autobody and Locksmith
But turning his passion into a sustainable business was no small feat. For two years, Brandon operated out of a rented space, delivering quality work but struggling to organize his operations. Without formal financial systems or proper business documentation, he found himself stuck in a cycle of working “under the table,” a common practice that often limits long-term growth.
Brandon’s turning point came when he connected with the Entrepreneurship Team at Communities Unlimited (CU) and Management Consultant LaKetter Cannon. LaKetter observed that while Brandon had the expertise and skills for day-to-day operations, he needed guidance to formally establish and effectively manage his business.
The first step was setting up his LLC through the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website and opening a business bank account. LaKetter provided detailed instructions and resources, empowering Brandon to take action. Within a week, he had legally registered his business and opened a dedicated financial account.
“LaKetter was the best person I could have talked to. She made everything so much clearer and guided me through a lot. She took her time to help me understand things, even when she had other important tasks. She’s been such a blessing in my life.”
— Brandon Sims
With the basics in place, the focus shifted to long-term sustainability. LaKetter introduced Brandon to cash flow management tools and accounting systems, emphasizing the importance of financial documentation. For Brandon, this was transformative.
“She helped me prepare for the future and avoid the mistakes of working under the table,” Brandon said. “A lot of guys my age don’t think about liability insurance or doing things properly. Now I understand how this benefits me in the long run.”
Beyond the technical aspects of running a business, LaKetter’s mentorship also reshaped Brandon’s mindset.
“She didn’t just approve my ideas; she went beyond that,” Brandon said. “She showed me that having a legitimate business gives you real benefits. It’s about building a foundation for the future. Now I have an LLC, a business account, and a better way to manage my finances.”
Sims Autobody and Locksmith has grown into more than just a business. It’s become a cornerstone of the Clarksdale community. Whether repairing frame damage or unlocking a stranded driver’s car, Brandon combines technical expertise with a deep commitment to serving his neighbors.
“I’m young, so I used to think it was all about saving money for myself. But LaKetter taught me there’s more to life than that. I can now help others and grow my business in ways I never imagined. She showed me how my trade could open the door to a better future. I’m so thankful that someone like her came into my life.”
— Brandon Sims
