Today we’d like to introduce you to Yonathan Tesfahun and Ibrahim Nuru.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
RC Awards LLC has been serving the community since 1995, providing custom trophies, awards, engraving, and other personalized products. In 2020, right in the heart of the COVID-19 pandemic, we made the bold decision to purchase the business from its original owners. It was a risky time to take on something new, especially with so much uncertainty in the world — but courage, vision, and hope led us to move forward.
Taking over RC Awards during that season wasn’t easy, but it became one of the most meaningful decisions we’ve made. It’s a powerful thing to not only own a business but to be able to serve and grow with your local community. Since then, the community has shown us tremendous support, and we’ve been focused on giving back by delivering quality work, reliable service, and creative solutions that help others celebrate their biggest moments.
In addition to our core services — trophies, awards, and engraving — we’ve expanded into promotional and branded items to better support businesses, schools, sports teams, and organizations with their marketing strategies and events. We now offer custom t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, hats, drinkware, pens, banners, pins, lanyards, and more. These additions allow our clients to elevate their events and brand presence with creative, cohesive, and high-quality products.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all — it’s definitely been a road with twists and turns. Taking over a business during the peak of the pandemic came with a lot of uncertainty. We had to deal with supply chain disruptions, limited walk-in traffic, and the overall shift in how people celebrated events. A big part of our business is built around recognition, community gatherings, and in-person milestones — and those were all paused or scaled back during that time.
On top of that, learning the ins and outs of an established business while also trying to innovate and modernize it was a huge challenge. We had to earn trust from longtime customers while introducing new services and systems. There were moments of doubt, long nights, and tight margins — but we stayed focused on our purpose: to serve our community with quality and care.
Those struggles ended up shaping us in the best way. They taught us how to be resourceful, adapt quickly, and most importantly, listen to our customers. Every challenge we faced helped us grow into the business we are today — one that’s stronger, more creative, and even more committed to our mission.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
RC Awards LLC is a local, Black-owned business based in San Diego that specializes in custom awards, engraving, and promotional products. We’re known for helping individuals, teams, schools, and organizations celebrate meaningful milestones with products that are both high quality and heartfelt. From trophies and plaques to custom medals and glass awards, everything we produce is created with care and precision.
What really sets us apart is our ability to combine creativity with reliability. We don’t just provide products — we help tell stories and elevate moments. Whether it’s a fantasy football trophy, a corporate recognition award, or custom gear for a nonprofit event, our goal is to make sure every piece we deliver feels intentional and memorable.
In recent years, we’ve expanded into branded merchandise and marketing tools. That includes custom t-shirts, tote bags, mugs, drinkware, hats, pins, banners, and other promotional items that help businesses and organizations boost visibility and leave a lasting impression. We work with everyone from small startups and schools to large-scale events, always offering flexible service, quick turnaround times, and a personal touch.
Brand-wise, we’re proud of how far we’ve come. We’ve built a reputation for being dependable, detail-oriented, and community-driven. At RC Awards, it’s more than just engraving names — it’s about celebrating people, passions, and progress.
What we want readers to know is this: if you’re looking for a partner to help you mark the big wins, honor the hard work, or promote your brand in a meaningful way, we’re here for you. Our team is committed to making sure every order reflects your vision — and shows up on time, every time.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that growth comes from discomfort — and that consistency is more powerful than perfection. Taking over RC Awards during a global crisis forced us to think creatively, take risks, and stay grounded in our purpose even when things felt uncertain. There were times when things didn’t go as planned, but showing up every day with intention made all the difference.
I’ve also learned the value of relationships — with customers, suppliers, and the local community. Listening to people, being flexible, and going the extra mile builds trust, and that trust is what keeps a business strong. Whether we’re creating a single award or handling a rush order of 500 t-shirts, we treat each project with care, because every order is an opportunity to serve and connect.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rcawards.com/p/BQFJI-ARGMT/8-blue-flame-accent-glass-on-black-base
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rcawardsllc/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rc-awards-san-diego
- Other: https://www.rcawardsca.com/#CustomerReviews
Image Credits
Yonathan Tesfahun
