Entrepreneur Spotlight

Total Posts : 101 posts

This Black-Owned Chocolate Brand Is Bringing Production Back to Africa

Despite West Africa being the world’s cocoa powerhouse, producing over 70% of the global supply and with Nigeria ranking as the world’s fourth largest cocoa producer, only a fraction of chocolate is actually made there. Less than 10% of the revenue from the multi-billion dollar industry finds its

Hayley-Ann Mark

23 Apr 26 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

From $40 And A Borrowed Sewing Machine To A Billion-Dollar Brand

In the 1990s, FUBU was perhaps one of the most iconic and successful urban streetwear brands, redefining what representation looked like in fashion at the time. At its peak in the late 1990s, the brand generated over $350 million in annual sales, quickly becoming a staple in hip-hop fashion, with

Hayley-Ann Mark

15 Apr 26 3 min read

Black Owned Businesses

From 9‑Year‑Old Dreamer to CEO: How This Young Black Entrepreneur Conquered the Fashion World

At just 9 years old when most kids are busy simply being kids, Moziah Bridges was already thinking about ties. With a sharp sense of style and confidence beyond his years, he says that he used to walk into McDonald’s dressed in a three-piece suit. Born in Memphis, Tennessee,

Hayley-Ann Mark

13 Apr 26 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

Inside the First Black-Owned Bakery in NYC’s East Village in Over Two Decades

In a city packed with bakeries on almost every corner, earning standout recognition is no easy task. So when Eater named the Pastry Box one of the best new bakeries in 2024, it confirmed what loyal customers already knew - that this East Village gem is something special. If you

Hayley-Ann Mark

09 Apr 26 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

Meet The Black Woman Creating Elevated Home Goods for Modern Homes

Curating any space that feels beautiful, functional, and truly personal can sometimes seem overwhelming. Between endless design inspiration and countless product options, the goal is always to create a home that reflects you and the way you live. That’s where Nooree Home steps in. Available on the Official Black

Hayley-Ann Mark

20 Mar 26 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

This Black-Owned Grocery Store Is Transforming Chicago’s West Side

On Chicago’s West Side, a Black woman is turning one of America’s most broken promises into a working model for economic repair. Through Forty Acres Fresh Market, founder Liz Abunaw is bringing fresh food, jobs, and community investment to neighborhoods long denied access to both. In American history,

Hayley-Ann Mark

11 Mar 26 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

Meet The Mother Son Duo Behind The Skincare Brand Made For Black And Brown Kids

Just before Bron Echols’ 12th birthday, his mother, Patrice Tartt Chappelle, made the decision to invest $1,200 in his skincare venture. The decision was driven by the need for a more tailored skincare routine for her son, who had struggled with dryness and a lack of skincare options specifically

Hayley-Ann Mark

09 Mar 26 2 min read

Black History

Generations Strong: This Black-Owned Flower Shop Has Been A Philly Staple For Over 50 Years

In the heart of West Oak Lane on Ogontze Avenue, Philadelphia, stands a vibrant reminder of Black entrepreneurship and family legacy. Since opening its doors on May 1, 1971, Paul Beale’s Florist has remained a beloved staple in the Philly community for more than half a century. The shop’

Hayley-Ann Mark

05 Mar 26 2 min read

black history month

The Black-Owned Coffee Shop in Cali Where Coffee, Culture, And Community Intersect

When former lawyers Amanda-Jane Thomas and Shanita Nicholas opened the Sip & Sonder’s flagship location in Inglewood, CA, in 2017, they wanted to curate a space where everyone could just exist - connect, create and commune. At the heart of their vision was the word sonder, which they explain

Hayley-Ann Mark

25 Feb 26 2 min read

Black History

Meet the Black Family That Has Helped Build America for Over 120 Years

From churches to college campuses, hospitals, courthouses and transit systems, the story of America’s built environment cannot be told without the hands that shaped it. And, few families have shaped it more profoundly than the McKissacks. Established over 120 years ago, McKissack and McKissack is the oldest Black-owned and

Hayley-Ann Mark

20 Feb 26 4 min read

black history month

Meet The Black Women Behind One Of Brooklyn’s Newest Skincare & Wellness Studios

Based in Brooklyn Heights, Tend To Studios is a “facial oasis” that was opened as a place of discovery. Founded by estheticians Nas’tassia Simpson and Georgia Weathers, the studio is rooted in accessibility, education, community and intentionality. At its core, Tend To is here to normalize normal skin. View

Hayley-Ann Mark

12 Feb 26 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

How Cathy Hughes Built A Black Media Empire From Just One Radio Station

A trailblazer in her own right, Cathy Hughes is a name widely-recognized, and rightfully so. As the founder and chairperson of Urban One (formerly Radio One), and one of the wealthiest self-made African American women, Hughes didn’t simply follow a model for success; instead, she laid down her own

Hayley-Ann Mark

06 Feb 26 3 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Inside the Cultural Delta: How These Former Meta Employees Are Changing The Game With Culture-Driven Marketing

In a digital world where algorithms shift daily, trends burn out seemingly overnight, and brands are constantly competing to maintain their relevance, Inflect Digital is not just another growth agency. Born from the experience of former Meta employees, Lionell Ball and Anuroop Kumar, who wanted to build something deeper, more

Hayley-Ann Mark

08 Jan 26 5 min read

Black Owned Businesses

Beyond The Wedding Day: How Two Black Women Are Creating A Space Where Couples Can Nurture A Soulful Love

The average amount spent on weddings in the United States is $30,000. While this is undoubtedly one of the most special days for a couple, the planning for what comes next is what really sets the foundation for the rest of the relationship. Anastacia Sams, a Licensed Marriage and

Hayley-Ann Mark

22 Dec 25 5 min read

Black Owned Businesses

How This Black-Owned Handbag Brand Is Making It Easy to Find the Perfect Bag for Someone Special

The holiday season has a way of bringing us closer to the people who matter the most, and while finding the perfect present can sometimes be a challenge, we’re here to make it a little easier. If you’re looking for a gift that is thoughtful and impactful while

Hayley-Ann Mark

08 Dec 25 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

The Business Of Black Hair: A Conversation With Ursula Stephen, Salon CEO & Fenty Hair Powerhouse

"20 years later, I have finally earned my title of celebrity hairstylist." - Ursula Stephen For Ursula Stephen, this statement is a reclamation. From doing hair in her mother’s Brooklyn laundry room to becoming a global hair ambassador for Fenty Hair and opening her own salon, her

Hayley-Ann Mark

07 Aug 25 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Kwame Onwuachi’s Rise From A Young Black Chef To A Cultural Architect

“Then there is food, which is a perfect way to access the cultural anatomy of a people. It’s a great resource for learning about a community’s rituals and rhythms.” - Dipo Faloyin, Africa is not a Country A storyteller with a knife and a cultural architect in an

Hayley-Ann Mark

01 Aug 25 4 min read

Black Owned Businesses

The First Black-Owned Nationally Distributed Coffee Brand Hits Costco Shelves

In 2018, two childhood best friends, Pernell Cezar, a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast, and Rod Johnson, a tea aficionado, came together to create what has now been recognized as one of the largest independently owned, social-impact driven coffee brands in the U.S. From inception, BLK & Bold, the first nationally

Hayley-Ann Mark

28 Jul 25 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

Meet The Owner Of The First Black-Owned Distillery In The U.S.: Du Nord Social Spirits

Although Chris Montana didn't initially set out to open a distillery, he knew that he wanted to be in the beverage industry. A longtime homebrewer, he acknowledged that launching yet another brewery in an already saturated market made little sense. On the recommendation of a friend, he began

Hayley-Ann Mark

21 Jul 25 3 min read

Black Owned Businesses

Meet The Powerhouse Women Transforming The Global Wine Industry With Afro Wine Week, South Africa

Scheduled to take place from September 5 - 13, 2025, the first ever Afro Wine Week, South Africa, is set to be a game-changing moment for the global wine industry. Positioned as a gateway to investment, empowerment, and community-building, this 7 day experience is being marketed as a premier opportunity

Hayley-Ann Mark

29 May 25 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

NYC’s First Black-Owned Vegan Donut Store Is Flipping Gentrification On Its Head

After 11 years in prison, including two in solitary confinement, Derrick Faulcon emerged with a vision. In 2020, as the world reeled with the pandemic and the nation faced a reckoning after George Floyd’s murder, he opened Cloudy Donut Co., a vegan donut shop, in Baltimore, MD. While many

Hayley-Ann Mark

28 May 25 2 min read

Black Owned Businesses

New Brew On The Block: Meet The Three D.C. Creatives Reshaping How You Enjoy Coffee

“tāst is a lot of things, but is not coffee. It’s an invitation to slow down, to savor. It’s a reengagment with the ritual of everyday life. It’s a start.” For coffee lovers, coffee is more than just a quick drink. It marks the beginning and ending

Hayley-Ann Mark

08 May 25 2 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

A New Vintage: How Kenneth Pettus, Founder of Unwine 101, Is Reshaping Wine Culture

Wine culture has long been cloaked in exclusivity. Less than 1% of wineries in the United States are Black-owned and fewer than 2% of wine and spirits professionals identify as Black. These numbers speak volumes but still do not tell the whole story. The industry has historically catered to, and

Hayley-Ann Mark

30 Apr 25 6 min read

Black Owned Businesses

These Three Friends Teamed Up to Launch 100% Natural Bamboo Toilet Paper

The call for sustainability could not be any louder. From rising sea levels to devastating wildfires and stronger storms and hurricanes, the planet is sending pretty clear signals that we need to change our ways – and fast. While actions such as swapping out plastic straws for reusable ones may seem

Hayley-Ann Mark

17 Apr 25 2 min read

What's New

How a Black Father’s Love and a Son’s Struggle Inspired a Movement for Healing and Belonging

What if the answers we’ve been looking for aren’t “out there,” but waiting patiently within us—buried beneath inherited beliefs, family patterns, and cultural conditioning? In It’s in Our Bones, the debut book by Bart Bailey, the founder of Courage to Care, readers are invited into a

OBWS

14 Apr 25 5 min read

Black Excellence

This Howard Alum Launched The First Ever Strip Mall For Black-Owned Businesses in DC

In 2015, Angel Gregorio, a Howard University alum, founded The Spice Suite, which quickly evolved into more than just a boutique for selling her own specialty spices. Named D.C.’s Small Business of the Year (2018) by Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, The Spice Suite became a space for Black

Hayley-Ann Mark

10 Apr 25 1 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

This Black Woman Invented The World's First Game-Changing Eyewear Product

Eyeglass cleaning has never been the same since Eyeglass EGGs hit the market. Behind this groundbreaking invention is a visionary entrepreneur with a dynamic background in tech, fitness, and audiobook narration. In this exclusive interview, we speak with Dori Young, the founder of Clean Peepers, who shares how she turned

OBWS

24 Mar 25 4 min read

Black Owned Businesses

He Opened The First Black-owned Grocery Store in Tulsa in 50 Years

In May 2021, Oasis Fresh Market opened its doors in Tulsa, Oklahoma, marking a significant milestone as the city's first Black-owned grocery store in over half a century. This initiative addresses food insecurity in underserved communities and symbolizes economic empowerment and community revitalization. For over a decade, North

OBWS

17 Mar 25 2 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet The Woman Transforming Lives With A Groundbreaking Skincare Brand

Meet Jasmine Nelson, a trailblazer who turned her lifelong struggle with PCOS and hirsutism into Umber by J. Lenay—a brand that’s changing the game for women who face similar challenges. Driven by her personal experience and determination, she developed the Hair Reducing Fade Oil, the brand’s hero

OBWS

20 Nov 24 7 min read

Black Owned Businesses

19-Year-Old Chris Knight Opens Second Location Of Cookie Chris In Richmond, VA

Who knew that a penchant for baking with his grandmother would lead to Chris Knight owning not one, but two, brick and mortar cookie shops at just age 19? During the COVID-19 lockdown, when most social activities were restricted, Chris’ parents encouraged him to spend his time doing something productive.

Hayley-Ann Mark

04 Nov 24 1 min read

Black Owned Businesses

Game, Set, Glo: Tennis Champion, Sloane Stephens, Serves Up New Body Care Line, Doc & Glo

Tennis champion, Sloane Stephens, is serving up something fresh off the court - her own all-gender body care line, Doc & Glo. Inspired by her personal journey and named after her maternal grandparents who instilled in her the importance of caring for both her mind and body, Stephens is transforming

Hayley-Ann Mark

16 Oct 24 1 min read

black authors

Stories That Shape Our World – How Colin Kaepernick’s AI-Based Platform, Lumi, Is Diversifying Storytelling

The stories that we consume, and engage with, directly inform how we understand the world; however, for years, the Publishing industry has been criticized for its lack of diversity in storytelling. Historically, this meant that the most widely consumed books often reflected a narrow world view, capturing limited experiences, perspectives,

Hayley-Ann Mark

10 Oct 24 2 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Haitian-American Entrepreneur Promotes Health & Wellness with Alkemy Superfoods

For 29-year-old Haitian American entrepreneur, Jamaal Mondesir, the launch of Alkemy Superfoods in the summer of 2020 served as the introduction of his passion and goal of providing not only a health and wellness brand but also a lifestyle platform full of education, research, and awareness. As his very first

OBWS

08 Apr 24 4 min read

What's New

Meet The Black-Owned Brand Bringing Luxury & Sustainability To Your Work Bag

Life in corporate America can be challenging, especially for Black professionals. When you’re not faced with career politicking, you’re often left with making sure your natural appearance is “appropriate” for the workplace. While we’ve thankfully gotten away from made up issues surrounding Black hair, T|W Tote

OBWS

28 Mar 24 10 min read

What's New

Meet The 20-Year-Old Artist, Athlete, And Student Who Built a Lucrative Creative Empire

Gabby Anderson is not only a Division 1 athlete and Ivy League student, but she is also an artist and successful entrepreneur with many corporate and celebrity clients (including several NBA and WNBA stars) and viral moments under her belt. Gabby's venture into the world of custom shoe

OBWS

20 Mar 24 1 min read

Black Owned Businesses

Inside Rihanna's Reign: From Island Gyal To Self-Made Billionaire

When Rihanna said “that Rihanna reign just won’t let up”, we hope you listened, because she’s proven it time and time again. One of the most influential artists of the 21st century, Rihanna can boast a range of accomplishments and accolades. Not only is she the 11th national

OBWS

12 Mar 24 4 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

How Souadou Niang Went From Housekeeping To Owning A 5-Star Luxury Boutique Hotel

In 1993, at age 18, Souadou Niang emigrated from her home in Dakar, Senegal, to New York to further her education. Four years later, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she attended Nova Community College, Virginia, for liberal arts and communication studies. There, she came across the Ritz Carlton.

OBWS

11 Mar 24 1 min read

What's New

A Timeline of Beyoncé’s Many Wins (and Fails) In Business

With an estimated net worth of $800 million, Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter is undoubtedly a multi-generational cultural icon who dominates off the stage as well (just ask the Beyhive). Having recently launched her haircare brand, Cécred (pronounced sacred), she’s fulfilling one of her lifelong dreams of creating hair products that

OBWS

08 Mar 24 4 min read

Black Excellence

How Issa Rae Went From Awkward Black Girl To Serial Entrepreneur

Issa Rae can confidently boast about her multiple nominations, awards, and accolades, including her Emmy and Peabody Trailblazer Awards, her contribution to one of 2023’s most hyped films, Barbie, and her recent recognition by Time Magazine as one of the leaders working to close the racial wealth gap. We

OBWS

05 Mar 24 3 min read

Black Excellence

Cheers To Uncle Nearest, The Black Woman-Owned Premium Whiskey Valued At Almost $1 Billion

Fawn Weaver is the CEO and founder of Uncle Nearest, a Black woman-owned premium whiskey brand that has become the fastest-growing American whiskey brand in U.S history, one of the top-selling Black-owned spirits, and the most award-winning American whiskey of 2019 and 2020. Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, which was

OBWS

04 Mar 24 1 min read

Black History

16 Wealthy Black Americans from Black History

Curated by Irene Smalls, MBA What do a scoundrel, a lady of the evening, a slave owner, an explorer, and businessmen have in common? They all became rich Black figures in American History. From the early days of struggle against slavery to the present era of groundbreaking achievements, Black individuals

OBWS

23 Feb 24 6 min read

Black Excellence

A Portfolio Of 20 Airport Restaurants Results In $50M In Revenue For This Entrepreneur

In 2023, CEO of H&H Hospitality, Randy Hazelton, was on track to earn $50M in revenue, and is expected to reach $100M by 2025. Originally founded in 2007, H&H is one of Hartfield Jackson Airport’s biggest food vendors; however, to achieve this milestone, Hazelton had

OBWS

15 Feb 24 1 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

The 10 Wealthiest Black Entrepreneurs in America

In this video we're going to discuss the 10 wealthiest Black entrepreneurs in America today. These individuals have built successful businesses and have amassed impressive fortunes along the way. Get ready to be inspired by their incredible journeys and the impact they have made in their respective industries.

OBWS

24 Jan 24 1 min read

Interviews

Meet The Therapist & Author On A Mission To Help The Black Community Heal

Mental health has become a major topic of interest in recent years for those of us in the Black community. Inspired by her own experiences and fueled by a desire to address the disparities and stigma surrounding mental health, Michigan-native Alicia Curry embarked on a journey to become a licensed

OBWS

01 Nov 23 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet The Black Woman Behind The Jewelry Showcasing The Beauty of Human Creativity & Compassion: Emerald Sun Creations

In the enchanting world of jewelry making, where artistry meets adornment, one Louisiana-based entrepreneur stands out with a unique vision and a heartwarming mission. Meet Wendy Turner, the brilliant mind and artisan behind Black-owned brand Emerald Sun Creations, a brand that weaves stories of nature, creativity, and compassion into every

OBWS

04 Oct 23 6 min read

Interviews

A Near-Death Experience Led To This Black Author's Fulfilled Promise

I was certain my life had come to an end! Yet, I still made a promise to God to start writing if I made it out alive. - Harold Phifer Throughout life there are milestones and events that shift the course of one's life for the better. For

OBWS

17 Jul 23 2 min read

Interviews

Detroit Native Launches Black-Owned Clothing Brand Highlighting The City’s Rich Culture

Motor City, Motown, pizza — these are just a few things the city of Detroit is known for. While the city is bustling with culture and historical significance, its story often gets lost in the noise. With early art influences from her mother, Veronica Gibson always had a creative eye. In

OBWS

30 Jun 23 10 min read

Black Owned Businesses

19 Black-Owned Businesses To Support This Juneteenth & Beyond

Juneteenth 2023 is officially here and this year, Official Black Wall Street is gearing up to celebrate the best way we know how: by supporting Black-owned businesses! We've partnered with Juneteenth Freedom Fest NYC to curate a marketplace of amazing Black-owned businesses we can all support during the

OBWS

15 Jun 23 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

HBCU Grad Launches Museum in The Metaverse Celebrating Black Children's Books

In 2022, Spelman alumna, social entrepreneur and author Veronica N. Chapman founded Black Children’s Book Week (BCBW), a global celebration of Black children and the power of Black representation in children’s books. Always beginning on the last Sunday in February, during the week people around the world host

OBWS

26 Apr 23 2 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Move Over Nike: Meet The Owner of The Black-Owned Sneaker Brand, IJF

Karlton Walker's dream of becoming a business owner began with his love for fashion. The Iraqi military veteran and Illinois native started off creating handmade Jordans in his basement before launching It's Just Fresh, making the leap to design and produce this own creations from beginning

OBWS

24 Apr 23 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet The Founder Reviving Black-Owned Insurance Agencies

When D’Juan Hopewell dropped out of his PhD program at the start of the Stock Market crash in 2008, he never imagined he would be unemployed for 3 years. After getting into politics and working on campaigns, Hopewell was doing very well for himself but discovered he was unhappy

OBWS

15 Mar 23 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Black Entrepreneur Started a Lucrative Trucking Company & Now Teaches Others How to Do The Same

After graduating with a business degree from the State University of New York and working in corporate America for a number of years, Gerard Fairley became disillusioned with the idea of continuing a career in corporate America. So, he became an entrepreneur building websites before making the move to Atlanta.

OBWS

07 Mar 23 4 min read

How Squad Trip is Revolutionizing the Black Travel Movement

The Black travel movement is bigger now than it’s ever been before. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s been an uptick in travel — family reunions, destination weddings, squad trips, and more. Black entrepreneurs Darrien Watson and Stevon Judd are revolutionizing how travel agents, small businesses, and trip organizers plan

OBWS

07 Dec 22 10 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

From Homelessness to Hollywood: Emir Horton Launches Black-Owned Luxury Watch Company

Time often feels like it’s going too fast or too slow which is why we’re always on the search for something that is timeless. And that’s what you get with Eartha Watch Company. Founded by Emir Horton, the watch brand is “Connecting Time to the Mission.” While

OBWS

26 Mar 22 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Maybe Drinks? Shoot Your Shot with the Black-Owned Community Dating App

For Stephanie Thomas, her online dating app, Maybe Drinks?, has been a work-in-progress for several years. While working on this passion project, the FAMU graduate always maintained a successful career in tech with several Fortune 100 companies. After being laid off from one of those companies, she decided to purchase

OBWS

18 Sep 21 8 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

The Black Owned Trivia Game Separating The Brilliant From The BS

From spades to dominoes, game nights have always held a special place in the heart of Black America. Today those classics and game nights have evolved as a new wave of games for us, by us have emerged. Out of that wave came the new hit game Brilliant or BS?

OBWS

07 Jul 21 4 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Female-Founded Black Utopia Launches Online Marketplace to Recirculate Black Dollars

African-Americans spend $1.2 trillion annually. Even so, these dollars don’t circulate through the Black community for very long. Maleika Brooks and Marilyn Cobbs have teamed up to form Black Utopia [https://black-utopia.com/], a venture to help meet the demand from consumers to support Black-owned businesses. I recently

OBWS

05 Feb 21 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Caribbean-American Entrepreneur Uses Experience of Selling In Walmart, Whole Foods to Help Clients Start Businesses

Michael Baptiste was raised by a single teenage mother in the inner city of South Miami. His ticket out of the inner city was through a basketball scholarship, but after undergoing two knee surgeries, Baptiste fell into depression and dropped out of college after losing his NCAA scholarship. One year

OBWS

22 Jan 21 8 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

MJ The Closer - A Black Woman's Rise from Small Town to Real Estate Magnate

As one of the best and brightest in the real estate game and a close rate of 98%, Melinda Jordan has certainly earned the name MJ the Closer. The self-proclaimed true Southern girl grew up in Camden, Mississippi on a cattle farm, rose through the ranks in corporate America, and

OBWS

20 Jan 21 8 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

The First Black Woman to Raise $1 Million in Equity Crowdfunding Campaign | OBWS 2020 Entrepreneur of the Year

Revolutionized retail has arrived. This is courtesy of serial entrepreneur Dawn Dickson, the founder and CEO of PopCom [https://www.popcom.shop/] and Official Black Wall Street’s 2020 Entrepreneur of the Year. With over 16 years of experience in business development and marketing, Dickson is paving the way for

OBWS

30 Dec 20 3 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Pathway to Purpose Plans to Help 1 Million Students Prepare for College

Since 2016, Pathway to Purpose [https://www.pathwaytopurposenyc.com/flashcards/] has impacted the college preparedness of more than 10,000 students throughout New York City. Serving more than 23 school districts and 48 partner schools, Pathway to Purpose facilitates customized events for students, parents, and staff, including workshops, financial aid

OBWS

23 Dec 20 4 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Find Diversity & Representation with Kaleidadope - OBWS 2020 Innovator of the Year

At Official Black Wall Street, Black entrepreneurs are celebrated every day. In August, we took it one step further by recognizing and rewarding the creative and innovative minds of trailblazing entrepreneurs. Krystal Banner, the CEO and designer behind the brand Kaleidadope [https://kaleidadope.com/], rightfully earned the 2020 Innovator of

OBWS

22 Dec 20 3 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Black-Owned Company Launches Seat Covers To Protect Travelers From COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic threw everyone for a loop at the beginning of 2020. As the numbers began to climb in the United States and all over the world, most of the population was experiencing fear and confusion. And while some of the country was on lockdown, life was still going

OBWS

18 Nov 20 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

BLK & Bold Brews Coffee for the Youth - OBWS 2020 Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award Winner

“Coffee meets impact.” There is no better way to describe the company, BLK & Bold, than in the words of their co-founders and OBWS’s Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award winners, Rod Johnson and Pernell Cezar. With a product list that includes an assortment of specialty beverages, the BLK

OBWS

16 Nov 20 3 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet Atlanta's New Black-Owned Grooming Destination For Men

For the past several years, Mickey West-Potts, known professionally as Mickey Da Barber, has mastered the art of grooming. In September of this year, she served as the creator of actress Yvonne Orji’s [https://www.instagram.com/p/CFYJmeiF5wu/] powerful hair design for her one-of-a-kind Emmy look. A little

OBWS

09 Nov 20 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Black-Owned Organization Creates Entrepreneurial Program For The Formerly Incarcerated

Since 1966, the non-profit organization, Workshop in Business Opportunities (WIBO) [https://wibo.works/], has been leading the charge in assisting individuals on their quest to be entrepreneurs. The organization, founded by Walter Geier and Mallalieu Woolfolk in Harlem, New York, has provided helpful resources, including webinars, mentoring, and more for

OBWS

12 Oct 20 4 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

This Black Entrepreneur is Taking Cards to the Next Level with The Game of Spades

While playing cards with his family on a trip home for the holidays in 2018, serial entrepreneur Aaron Parker was inspired to take a favorite pastime with most Back families to the next level. He utilized his graphic design and marketing skills to enhance card playing forever with The Game

OBWS

30 Sep 20 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

One Man’s Journey From Vending Machines to Generational Wealth

For Marcus Gram, moving to a new city and taking a chance on a new business opportunity was a move that has proven to be beneficial. As he works to create more opportunities for himself and others, his entrepreneurial endeavors are also setting his family up for the future. Since

OBWS

10 Sep 20 4 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

This Black Entrepreneur Went From Repairing His Own Credit to Helping Others Do The Same

After college, William Frazier found himself working at a prominent financial institution. However, he always knew that he was destined to be an entrepreneur. While dealing with his own credit issues and seeing clients facing the same challenges, it occurred to William that maybe this was the business path he

OBWS

10 Sep 20 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Young Black Millennials Launch a Creative Hub and Agency For The Culture

When Chloe Adams and Chanah McKenzie realized the corporate world wasn't properly valuing and recognizing their skillsets, or that of other young Black professionals, they turned those lemons into PYNK Lemonade [https://www.pynklmn.com/]. PYNK Lemonade is a one-stop-shop creative agency and creative hub, providing marketing services

OBWS

03 Sep 20 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

This Woman's Passion For Natural Skincare Has Grown Into a Lucrative Black-Owned Business

For one 29-year-old single mother, being her own boss was always her dream. She wanted the opportunity to provide jobs for those who may be judged or looked over due to their gender, sexual orientation, or simply the color of their skin. And now Claudell Allen, a licensed medical esthetician,

OBWS

28 Aug 20 4 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

This Black Traveler Is Giving Us a Glimpse Of The World Amidst The Pandemic

When travel, particularly international travel, was still flourishing and going strong, Nathan Fluellen better known as World Wide Nate, was roaming the world and documenting his experiences for all to see. Thanks to his mother’s influence and inspirational words from a professor at his alma mater, Tennessee State University,

OBWS

31 Jul 20 7 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

HBCU Grad Continues Self-Care Journey For Black Women & Girls With Latest Journals

In December 2018 [https://blog.obws.com/hbcu-coloring-book-black-women-self-care/], OBWS had an opportunity to chat with entrepreneur and author, Latoya Nicole, to discuss her “Entrepreneurs Color Too” [https://entrepreneurscolortoo.com/] coloring book series. Since that time, business has skyrocketed for the Raleigh, NC native. She has gone on to produce several

OBWS

14 Jul 20 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Laila Ali Continues to Push the Needle Forward in the Health and Wellness Space

Since retiring in 2007 as arguably one of the best, if not THE best female boxer of all-time, Laila Ali has gone on to a successful career as a well-respected and sought-after television personality and actress. She has competed and won on the Food Network’s “Chopped” celebrity edition, appeared

OBWS

10 Jul 20 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Black Woman Launches Tax Company Helping Entrepreneurs Save 30-50% on Taxes

Millennial mompreneur Laine Waller went from working in sales to creating a company that would allow her to help entrepreneurs in our community level up financially. After switching careers to learn more about the banking industry, Laine noticed the lack of resources and information the bank shared with those in

OBWS

05 May 20 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Best-Selling Author Owns a Top Rated Writing Services Company That Empowers Job Seekers, Writers, And Entrepreneurs

New Orleans native Ross Williams has a lot to celebrate these days. This month marks the third year anniversary since leaving his last job in corporate America, a leap of faith that would change the trajectory of his life forever. Shortly after, he released not one, but two best-selling books

OBWS

22 Apr 20 4 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

This Woman Created a Community to Help Black Millennials Through Their 20Somethings

Your twenties are a time of rapid and sometimes (most times) overwhelming transitions and changes. From finding your footing professionally to dealing familial, personal and even racial issues, growing pains are almost inevitable. Noticing the lack of support for Black millennials, Mississippi native Brittany Brown took matters into her own

OBWS

18 Mar 20 7 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

This Black Physician Created An Organic Elixir Proven To Combat Hair Loss

Like many women in our community, Alison Mitchell, MD suffered from both postpartum hair loss and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). After struggling to find products that would help alleviate the hair loss, she took matters into her own hands. Through extensive trial and research, Alison created an elixir that gave

OBWS

10 Feb 20 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

These Atlanta Entrepreneurs Are Proof That It's Never Too Late to Start Building a Legacy

It's never too late to get started on your entrepreneurial dreams! 42-year-old Kenyada and 38-year-old Harrison met while working for the same Fortune 100 company over 15 years ago and instantly knew something greater was in store for them. With dreams of creating a legacy and generational wealth

OBWS

14 Jan 20 3 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet The Woman Who Launched a $6 Million Wireless Network at 24 Years Old

Chaymeriyia Moncrief, Alabama entrepreneur who launched prepaid carrier Tesix Wireless Network at 24 years old in September of 2018, is making strides towards building her Millennial focused mobile virtual network operator. A Tesix Wireless store is set to open in Montgomery, AL on Dec 28th, in addition to welcoming authorized

OBWS

28 Oct 19 3 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

This Woman Owns The Most Successful Black-Owned Nanny Agency in The Country

Believe it or not, the childcare industry is ran largely by white men and women. This came as a complete surprise being that women of color are more often than not seen in these roles. Having over 14 years of experience as a nanny, Brooklyn-native and mompreneur Ruka Curate stepped

OBWS

16 Sep 19 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet The Woman Who Created One of The Few Sunscreen Lines For Black Skin

“I’m Black… I don’t need sunscreen” is an all-too-familiar line many of us have heard time and time again. Fortunately recent studies have debunked this myth, showing that although our melanin gives us some natural protection against sunburn, we are not immune to the many side effects of

OBWS

08 Aug 19 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

This Pilot Owns One of The Few Black-Owned Private Jet Charter Companies

It isn't every day that you come across a Black entrepreneur and pilot who is making waves in the aviation industry. As a matter of fact, only 3% of commercial pilots are African American*, so we can only imagine the lack of representation when it comes to Black-owned

OBWS

20 May 19 8 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

How One Health Scare Led This Woman to Begin a Nationwide Vegan Movement

What began as a major health scare for one Gary, Indiana-native turned into a powerful mission to educate the Black community on the benefits of a vegan diet, showing that it is more than just tofu and salads. At the age of 24, Kyna suffered from a fibroid tumor so

OBWS

20 Feb 19 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

HBCU Grad Launches Adult Coloring Book Series to Help Black Women With Self Care

With the growing emphasis on the benefits of therapy and the damaging effects of stress, self care has rightfully taken its roots within the Black community. One HBCU grad is taking things to a new level by highlighting a more unconventional and nostalgic, but effective method to relieve stress... coloring!

OBWS

17 Dec 18 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Representation Matters: How One Woman Is Empowering Black Children & Defying Stereotypes Through Backpacks

Here's a little-known fact: Less than 2% of the backpacks in the marketplace reflect children of color. After hearing this statistic, entrepreneur and Jacksonville, Florida-resident Casey R. Kelley set out to defy stereotypes and give Black children the representation they deserve with her apparel and backpack line, Blended

OBWS

08 Mar 18 8 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet The Black Woman Dominating Atlanta's Luxury Concierge Industry

When it comes to luxury concierge in Atlanta, one Black woman has dominated the industry, becoming the point person for your favorite celebrities and the elite. Adrian Wells-Lucas, owner of The [http://www.thewellsluxurygroup.com] Wells Luxury Group, is a former news reporter and real estate broker turned entrepreneur who,

OBWS

07 Feb 18 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

How This Doctor/Nurse Duo Is Bringing Self Care, Beauty, and Wellness To The Atlanta Community

We've all heard (and have seen living proof) of the saying "Black don't crack," but one Atlanta Doctor is going above and beyond to bring new meaning to the phrase. Dr. DeAnn Bing stepped into the entrepreneurial world with her business partner years ago

OBWS

18 Dec 17 4 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Millennial Quits Job To Make The Next Big Hip Hop & R&B Card Game, AUXGOD

Over the past few years we've finally seen an emergence of adult games made for us, by us. With our love for music and a good card game (is there ever a Black family gathering without this?) I was extremely excited to learn more about a new game

OBWS

14 Dec 17 4 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

How One Black Woman Is Creating Her Own Lane In Georgia's Beauty Supply Industry

I'm sure we've all noticed the plethora of Korean owned beauty supply stores around most corners of Black neighborhoods. We purchase nine times more beauty and grooming products than any other ethnic group, yet own less than 1% of that market share. Knowing this information, it&

OBWS

05 Dec 17 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Valencia D. Clay- Helping Baltimore City Students Beat The Odds Day By Day

Valencia D. Clay is a middle grades teacher of Humanities in Harlem, NY and a graduate of Morgan State University. During her tenure with Baltimore City Public Schools, she earned a Master’s in Special Education and a certification in Administration and Supervision from Johns Hopkins University. Valencia is a

OBWS

14 Mar 17 9 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet Marie Jean-Baptiste, Founder of RUE107 Clothing Brand

I first discovered RUE107 [https://rue107.com/] when I began doing research on Black owned businesses and was immediately impressed by the colorful, figure-flattering pieces and diverse range of models. I loved it, especially after realizing it was a fellow Black woman entrepreneur behind the brand! I recently had the

OBWS

17 Oct 16 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet the 1st Black Woman to Own a Marijuana Dispensary in CO

Wanda James has worn many hats in the past few decades as a corporate executive, serial entrepreneur, commissioned military officer, restauranteur, and member of President Obama's national finance committee, but her most impressive triumph? Becoming the first and only Black woman in Colorado to own a marijuana dispensary.

OBWS

20 Apr 16 13 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet the Young Black Doctor Who Opened a Pharmacy in NC

It isn't often that you come across a Black entrepreneur carving out their own space in the pharmaceutical industry, so naturally I was instantly intrigued when I stumbled on Dr. Martez L. Prince's story. The 29 year-old pharmacist received his doctorate at Florida A&M

OBWS

05 Apr 16 9 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Inspiring Change in Silicon Valley with Tech Guru Everette Taylor

Everette grew up on the south side of Richmond, Virginia with his mother and sister, Broad Rock to be exact. He explained, "Growing up was interesting because what I had in my household and what I saw on the streets was completely different. What I saw on the streets

OBWS

16 Mar 16 7 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet Briana Riddock, Culinary Artist known as The Seasoning Bottle!

Briana is a southern belle born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. Briana grew up in a household where everyone loves to cook. Her parents are both Jamaican, so she was culturally brought up with a Caribbean background. Briana credits her southern influence as an inspiration and her roots as the

OBWS

24 Feb 16 5 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Black Military Member Aims to Take Over the Sock Industry with Kimchi Socks

New Orleans-native Jason V. Holmes is no stranger to wearing many hats. When he isn’t fulfilling his duties as a military member stationed in South Korea or blogging his experiences in the military, he’s working on expanding his sock-gifting business, Kimchi Socks [https://officialblackwallstreet.com/item/kimchi-socks/]. After

OBWS

18 Feb 16 2 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet Maci Peterson, Founder of On Second Thought App

We've all gone through the horror of sending an embarrassing text message we couldn't get back. After dealing with this headache a few times too many, 28 year-old entrepreneur Maci Peterson set out to find a solution that would allow her to edit or delete text

OBWS

23 Sep 15 7 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet Ade Hassan, Owner of Nubian Skin Lingerie

Ladies, I’m sure you’ve been there before. You head to your nearest lingerie store hoping to buy a "nude" bra that will go seamlessly under any blouse, only to find that the range of colors are… limited, to say the least. After years of dealing with

OBWS

27 Aug 15 6 min read

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Meet The Brothers Behind the Diverse Emoji App, WeMojis

With their growing popularity, emojis have become a second language for black millennials whether shared through texts, memes, or tweets. Through Apple’s latest update, we were finally able to use emojis that look like us, but something was still missing – culture. The Howard graduates and brothers Trey and Donovan

OBWS

13 Aug 15 5 min read

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