Meet Our People: Making a Masterpiece: Eleslie Walker

Eleslie Walker

Captain, Blue Suede Brigade

As the Captain of the Blue Suede Brigade, Downtown Memphis Commission’s safety and hospitality team, Eleslie Walker has a wide range of responsibilities. Other tourism and hospitality professionals have nominated Eleslie for awards, noting his outstanding service and dedication to the community. One person described watching from their condo window as Eleslie shoveled a path through several inches of snow and helping a person into an ambulance: “After warming up in our lobby for a few minutes, he told us that he was heading back out to see if he could find anyone who needed to get to a warming center.” 

Another nominator witnessed Eleslie’s generosity in action during the same snowstorm: “In the evening Eleslie would take a few of his fellow team members to check the Downtown Core Area for some of the homeless population. He would give them warm beverages and contact the MATA for a ride to warming centers or shelters for them.  His commitment to providing hospitality to our less fortunate shows the dedication he has for humanity!” 

How did you get into the hospitality industry? 

Because I love to help people and I love to show excitement for our city.

How did you end up where you are now? Take us through your career path. 

I’ve worked in banking, the transportation industry, and the hotel industry. And now I’m taking a different avenue in the hospitality industry. 

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I originally wanted to be a teacher but I think I still found a career path that allows me to help people.

How long have you been working in the hospitality industry? 

For about 12 years.

What is your favorite part about working in the industry? 

Turning people’s experiences around, going the extra mile, and making sure people enjoy Memphis as deeply and authentically as I do.

What are your top three favorite places to visit in Memphis? 

The National Civil Rights Museum, Graceland, and Shelby Farms. 

What is something you learned in this position that has changed your life for the better? 

Patience with people. And a sense of community.

Thank you, Eleslie, for your dedication to building community with visitors to Memphis and locals alike!