SHOPPE BLACK

3 Powerful Things that Traveling the Globe Taught Me

9 mins read

I spun the globe around as quickly as I could. With the confidence of a fourth grader, I pointed to each continent and said, “One day I am going there.” My teacher overheard me and reassuring replied, “I believe that you will, Tyra.”

My fascination and desire to travel actually began because of my introduction to foreign lands through my first love of reading. I would read a scene, imagine all of the details, and then envision myself there. One place that I had always wanted to visit was Portrush United Kingdom due to it’s close proximity to so many special spots.

A ceremonial welcome from the indigenous people of Australia

Once I linked my literary world to that of my geographic studies, I was determined to step foot on all 7 continents. Some 30 years later and 5 continents down, the quest still unfolds.

Traveling for me has always been about connecting with the strangely unfamiliar, yet familiar. Even in lands where I did not speak the language or where my religious beliefs or political ideologies were not the norm, there was, inevitably, something that I shared in common with the people who lived there. When visiting new places it was always important to follow vaccination recommendations such as getting jabs for Mexico. It is always better be on the safe side.

Sydney’s Opera House

It is through my international travels that I grew and learned quite a bit about what it means to belong, to be foreign, and to be misunderstood or embraced simply because of where I was from or what I looked like.

Great Barrier Reef Region

If I had to capture the three most powerful things that traveling taught me, they would be the following:

1) Black is and Black ain’t. “Where are you from?” It is often an innocuous question that we use to make a connection with someone else. Yet, in the context of foreign travel, it serves as a springboard to really reflect upon what it means to be a part of the African Diaspora.

My honey-caramel skin and kinky, curly tightly braided hair did not signify ‘she is one of us’ in certain parts of Cameroon. In fact, my Americanness trumped my Blackness. This was strangely at odds with my dominant worldview of the Motherland as my homeland.

Then there was the trip to Cape Town. While in South Africa, I was often mistaken for a Coloured woman (a category created during apartheid to classify mixed raced people) as people would casually and comfortably speak to me in Afrikaan.

When I explained that I was American, some people’s demeanors would shift and deferential treatment would ensue. There was no escaping that in some spaces, my Americanness Othered me and even in certain places in Africa, my Blackness could not protect me.

Waterfall in a rainforest in Australia

2)Black women are beautiful. I know and you know that we are beautiful, but every once in a while, wouldn’t it be nice to be in a space where your beauty is not challenged or minimized?

I used to tell my girlfriends that if they ever needed a self-esteem pick-me-upper than to go to Italy or Southern France. Black women of all hues, sizes, and shapes are considered “muy bella” (very pretty) in certain cultures.

Now, I don’t want this to become a digression into a conversation about interracial dating, but too often in the United States, Black women are the ones who are asked to capitulate to certain beauty standards in order to be deemed desirable and attractive.

So, I will be honest that it was refreshing to see men of various races who found Black women aesthetically appealing. Now, of course, one cannot gauge the deepest levels of love and care between two people, but from what I observed, there were numerous beautiful Black women gracefully walking through the streets in the arms or their admiring lovers. Muy bella indeed!

Three Sisters rock formation in the Blue Mountains of Australia

3)You are insignificant. There is a tendency in the United States to assume that our worth is dictated by our credentials, our status, and our material comforts. Yet, when you stand on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in one direction and the French Alps in another one, you realize just how insignificant you are.

When you see a clam in the Great Barrier Reef that is older than most of the people who you know, then you begin to understand just how large and magnanimous the world is. There is so much more to living and breathing and existing than simply acquiring things and titles.

Dr. Camie Wright and Dr. Tyra Seldon in Port Douglas Australia

There is a majesty in knowing that there are billions of people on this earth, intricate dishes that are made from the most delicate of food staples, and languages that permeate your ears faster than you can comprehend them. This is the beauty of international travel; you are forced to lean into discomfort while glowing in the awe. All you need for successful travelling is your cabin luggage and an open mind!

Of course, there are elements of world travelling that every person must be aware of, including physical danger, possible terrorists’ attacks, and navigating the nuances of any new and unfamiliar culture and typography.

But those potential red flags do not usurp the aspects of world travel that simply cannot be replicated by reading about them in a book, magazine, or even this blog.

There are certain things that you must live and traveling to distant lands is one of them. So, for everyone who is reading this who has never stepped foot on foreign soil, go find a globe, give it a spin, start dreaming, and most importantly, begin traveling.

Dr. Tyra Seldon is a professional writer, motivational speaker, and the Founder and CEO of

Seldon Writing Group, LLC. She has worked with a wide range of clients ranging from Dr. Boyce

Watkins, Damon Dash, and Kenyatta Griggs to Freelancers Union, National Geographic and

OpenEd. Her articles often explore the intersections of race, culture, gender, and identity. She can be reached at seldonwritinggroup@hotmail.com

Obama taps Chicago pro to handle his Finances – CRAIN

1 min read

Now that he doesn’t have to try to balance the federal budget, former President Barack Obama is getting his family’s financial house in order.

He’s tapped a Chicago professional to help him with the task, taking E. “Robbie” Robinson Jr. away from Chicago investment titan BDT Capital Partners, LLC (BDT) for just a year, until January, according to sources familiar with the move.

Robinson, 40, has been a managing director at BDT since 2009, when he followed his investment banker mentor and the firm’s founder, Byron Trott, to BDT from Goldman Sachs Group.

Robbie and D’rita Robinson – Photo credit: Eric Unger

Robinson has been counseling the ex-president on everything from his recent book deal to directing money to his foundation and charities to investing his growing wealth, the sources said.

When Obama signed a book deal with Penguin Random House in February for the rights to his memoirs, the value of the agreement wasn’t disclosed, but some media reported that he and his wife, Michelle Obama, were paid $60 million for a package that includes a book by her, too.

Both of the Obamas are former lawyers who met when they worked together at Chicago law firm Sidley Austin.

 

Click to read full article by  @ CRAIN

 

 

 

Do Your Skin a Favor. Dump your Washcloth!

4 mins read

I often get compliments on my skin. One reason might be because I drink copious amounts of water. The other is most likely because as a child growing up in Nigeria, I used what we call a “sponge”.  An inexpensive, yet effective skin care instrument. I still use it to this day. (No, not the same one)

That being said, you can imagine how excited I was to learn that Caroline Ansah had given my childhood sponge a makeover and created Luv Scrub. I had to find out more about how and why she created her business.

SB: What inspired the creation of LUV SCRUB ? 

CA: LUV SCRUB actually started in July 2012. I was at a Brooklyn roof top party with new friends and they complimented me on my skin. They gave me the idea to it bring to the market.

I did it and it was great experience.  I learned a lot. In between, I took a much needed break.  I always knew I was going to do it again and I’m so happy I did. Very excited to share this amazing bath tool with everyone.

SB: Your background is in Branding and Retail Merchandising. In what ways did you utilize this knowledge before launching and how will you use it now that you’ve launched ?

CA: Since graduating from college in 1999 I’ve always been in this field.  A huge part of my job was protecting brands for huge fashion companies in the US and Canada. 

My focus was the “look and feel” and always giving the customer the best shopping experience.  I always loved the challenge of taking an underwhelming piece and making it look amazing, enticing the customer to purchase.  

I also managed the openings of hundreds of stores.  This is where I set the tone and trained and developed key members to make sure the brand was always presented at its best.  

It’s funny when I look back at my journey, I think I was always being prepared for LUV SCRUB.  Everything I do now is what I did in my past:  presentation, consistency in my messaging and marketing as well as Customer Service.  It’s so crazy that I used to visit stores for other brands. Now I visit stores to see how my product is presented on the shelves.

SB: What has been the most challenging and most fulfilling part of your entrepreneurial journey so far?

CA: You know you have a great product, especially since you have been using it your entire life. People only know what they know, and I am challenging that. But once they use it, all I hear is – “I love my LUV SCRUB”.  It’s so worth it.

SB: What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?

CA: Patience is everything.  

SB: If could wake up tomorrow with any business skill, what would it be?

CA: Hands down Accounting and Bookkeeping.  They are my least favorite things to do lol

SB: Nigerian jollof or Ghana jollof?

CA: Ghana Jollof of course.  My Mom makes the best. 

Find out more about LUV SCRUB by visiting their website here!

@thebusyafrican

#SHOPPE NAIJA: The Black and Bourgie Shoppe Black Experience in Lagos

24 mins read

I’ve wanted to attend Social Media Week Lagos for the last five years, ever since my girl Ngozi Odita founded it with a group of fellow Nigerians.

The largest innovation and technology convening on the Continent, SMW Lagos is definitely a Nigerian hot spot for the cool girls and guys representing innovation in Africa across industries.

The Busy African and I decided to introduce Shoppe Black to the masses on the other side of the Atlantic, while checking out some of the best of what the Continent has to offer.

Opening Day of Social Media Week Lagos.

Although this would not be my first trip to Nigeria – it’s been a minute. Tony hasn’t been back for a few years either so it would be a homecoming of sorts for him, especially since he’d have his new Iyawo [read: bride] in tow.

Considering the fact that Nigeria is home to 174 million people, with many more of her children located throughout the globe, we were both looking to Shoppe Black when we went “back home.”

What we didn’t know was how many businesses were not owned by Nigerians. We just naturally assumed everything was for us, by us. Not so. While there are countless Nigerian owned businesses, the country also has its share of businesses owned and operated by Lebanese, Chinese and other Asians.

Nobody’s here for the xenophobia that countries like South Africa are sadly exhibiting. However, in our quest to support our own, we went on a mission to experience the best Naija-owned businesses we could find.

Imagine our delight when we happened upon the #buyNigerian movement that includes businesses with great concepts and excellent customer service.

Who knew just how fun and cosmopolitan our Black and Bourgie in Lagos experience would be? Certainly not us. The two weeks we spent Shopping Naija inspired us beyond imagination.

From nail bars and rooftops to organic juice brands and museums, Lagos has a little bit of everything with lots of room left to start something new.

Hanging out with my in-loves post brunch.

So whether you’re in Nigeria for business, going home to visit the family or relocating to this bustling country, check out our personal faves from in and around Lagos.

This is only a sample that reflects our quick trip but we’re looking forward to diving into the Buy Nigerian movement as we continue to build our own brand. And watch out, #shoppenaija may be coming to the innanets near you.

Shantrelle P. Lewis


WHERE TO STAY

La Maison Fahrenheit Hotel
While Tony and I didn’t stay at Fahrenheit, we certainly hung out there with friends on a few occasions. The rooftop is undoubtedly one of the best places for drinks and stimulating conversations in the city.

The boutique hotel has the coolest vibe and decor. The rooms are sexy and spacious. I’ve heard great things about the food at the in-house restaurant as well. We’re definitely staying here the next time we’re in town, if only for a few days.
fahrenheithospitality.com

Protea Hotel Lagos at Kuramo Waters

During Social Media Week, we opted for Protea Hotel Lagos Kuramo Waters. It’s a smaller garden style hotel owned and operated by Marriott on Victoria Island, located a few minutes away from Landmark Center.

The rooms were modern and comfortable. We stayed on a lower floor one night and in a suite on an upper floor the remainder of the trip, which was better because of the small balcony and natural sunlight.

The food at the restaurant was pretty decent. The staff was beyond accommodating and friendly. P.S. Don’t let the website fool you. The hotel is situated on a beach but not the the kind of beach you’ll have access to or where you’d probably opt to lounge. marriott.com

 

WHERE TO GRAB A BITE

Nok by Alara
Named after one of the world’s oldest civilizations that flourished during the Iron Age in present-day Nigeria, Nok’s ancient terra-cotta sculptures, jewelry and artifacts are preserved today in museums around the world. The contemporary Nok is a well designed concept restaurant that features a delicious modern take on traditional Nigerian and Diasporan dishes.

It’s cute for a date night or gathering with a group of friends, with both indoor and outdoor seating options, although the menus vary depending on where you choose to dine. On one occasion I had the jerk chicken and the grilled beef filet on another.

The Red Alert was my adult beverage of choice. I ate there at least on three separate occasions and they did not disappoint on any. It’s on the pricier side but well worth it. And if you wonder why the aesthetics are so supreme, that’s partially because the building was designed by internationally renowned architect David Adjaye.  nokbyalara.com

Samantha’s Bistro and Grill

There’s no denying the fact that I’m a picky eater. Not only that, I’m the self-identifying Burger Queen. My love for hamburgers has nothing to do with the fact that I’m American but everything to do with the fact that I have always, always loved hamburgers.

So put me in any city or country and I’ll find the best burgers there. In Lagos, Samantha’s might be it. Also, their grill had some of the BEST tilapia I’ve tasted in my life. And I’ve had some great tilapia. I couldn’t stop talking about this tilapia though. It was grilled to perfection. You should also check out their brunch. IG: @samanthasbistro

Hans & René
With locations at the Radisson Blu hotel in Ikoyi, Palms Shopping Center and Ikeja City Mall., Hans & René is a very cute, Black-owned bakery and gelataria.

They serve traditional flavors of gelatos and sorbets that you’d find anywhere in the world but also a variety of local concoctions that were quite delicious. My personal favorite was the Agbalumo – a sorbet made from a popular indigenous fruit affectionately called “African cherries.”

Hans & René also offers a selection of other sweets and baked goods. This is not the place to go if you’ve kicked your sugar habit but most certainly the place to visit if you have a sweet tooth. hansandrene.com

Craft Gourmet by Lou Baker
This may be bit of a faux pas, considering we are all Black everything but I be remiss if I didn’t recommend Kraft Gourmet located on the upper floor at Mega Plaza. Why? Because although not Black, they are of color and their customer service was EVERYTHING.

Plus the food is good. I dined there for a late brunch twice. The chicken and waffles were tasty. The $10 mimosa came in a carafe that allowed you to squeeze out at least three mimosas, which meant I was pretty tipsy both times but I didn’t complain.

The owner’s husband was very sweet and extremely accommodating. I believe they’re Indian, which in this case, is good enough (brown enough) for me. Great service goes a long way. IG: @craftgourmet

So Fresh
One afternoon after quite a hot and dramatic visit to the National Museum, Tony and I were looking for a quick bite en route to our next appointment.

I saw the signage from the road on our way to the museum and asked the driver to pull into the parking lot for So Fresh. We were pleasantly surprised by the neat juice bar that also had a variety of salads, wraps and smoothies.

It’s not only nutritious and but is an an ideal haven for Nigerian veggie lovers. We love their branding and customer service as well! sofreshng.com

Simply Green
So Fresh isn’t the only health conscious brand in Lagos. Once again, my girl Tayo put me on to several great Nigerian businesses in the area. She and her husband are huge supporters of the #buynigerian movement.

During a visit to her home, she offered me a refreshing and nutritious Simply Green cold pressed juice. I was in love! The owners of Simply Green have mastered the art of branding. Additionally, their products come from a Nigerian owned farm where they grow their fruits and veggies.

Their juices can be found at various stores throughout the country as well as at their own location in V.I. If you’re really committed to cleansing and giving your system a break after stuffing it with fufu and pounded yam, you can order a cleanse which ranges from 3 to 6 days.

The Simply Green staff delivers your fresh juices directly to your door. How cool is that? simplygreenjuice.com

 

BEAUTY


Scratch and Social

It’s no secret that I have a picky palate. I’m even pickier when it comes to my pedicures. I decided to check out Scratch and Social at the end of SMW when it was time for my nails to get touched up.

Someone told me that the uber cute nail shop also had a bar so I figured it was the perfect answer to cure our need for happy hour and tackling my manicure at the same time. The vibe is super chic.

The place is owned by a millennial from Texas who returned home to try her hand at Nigeria’s booming start up sector. I absolutely loved the place. I loved the service. What I didn’t love was the four hours it took to get my nails done. (Neither did Tony or Yaba).

I think it had more to do with the fact that it was a Friday night and that it takes at least an hour for each service and there was at least one person ahead of me. In MY opinion, it might be better if the owner just makes everything by appointment only to alleviate the wait unless she hires more staff to meet her growing demand.

Also a free drink for the wait would have been a nice gesture. All in all, she was very sweet and I’d still go back because you can’t beat the vibes. scratchandsocial.com

House of Tara
There was a House of Tara booth during SMW and I picked up two lipsticks. I loved the colors! So after I discovered that it was in the neighborhood when we drove by one day on the way back to my in-laws, I stopped in to pick up a few more lipsticks and a few things for my mother-in-love.

House of Tara has a full line of cosmetics. You can book appointments to have your makeup done as well.  Since I purchased my colorful hues, I’ve been wearing them almost daily.

They’re not very big tubes so I’m not sure how long they’ll last in comparison to larger brands but I love the way the purple and bright pink shades highlight my complexion. shop.houseoftara.com

 

WHERE TO SHOP


Alara
Located in Victoria Island, Alara is very chic, very modern, very ultra-dope concept store boasting of luxury brands from around the globe. The four – five story  locale has anything and everything a couture loving fashionista/o would ever need in their wardrobe or home.

I don’t do red bottom shoes (my ankles and size 10s/41s were not set up for stilt walking unfortunately) but they had plenty pairs of Christian Louboutins if that’s your thing. The store also functions as a gallery that is curated by my good friend Temitayo Ogunbiyi.

After working up an appetite spending hard earned money at Alaro, you can go its sister restaurant in the back for some good bites. IG:@alaralagos

Grey Velvet
I have to credit my play cousin-in-love for turning me on to Grey Velvet. Kemi’s an it girl who comes home frequently. Because she highly values more modern twists on traditional wear versus Western name brands, she shops at Grey Velvet.

We checked it out before flying back to the States. Kemi was right! I wanted to buy half the store but only left with an Ankara Agbada, a few tops and a pair of shades.

It’s a cute boutique located in the Lekki shopping center and has a variety of colorful dresses, blouses, pants, skirts, accessories including the local made high end Femi handbags. greyvelvetstores.com

 

Lekki Market
I posted a status on facebook about my experiences in Balogun Market hunting for fabric. I handled it like the O.G. professional Diasporic haggler that I am.

But battling the sheer excited chaos and heat that is Lagos’ largest street market is not for the faint of heart or inexperienced. So if you want to purchase some small items for the home or friends, go to Lekki Market.

In addition to sculptures, masks and jewelry, there are also vendors with nice traditional paintings. You still can bargain, don’t just take someone’s last price. But even if you do, you’ll still come out with some good finds. Find out more about Lekki Market here.

WHERE TO FIND ART AND CULTURE

In my head, Fela was my uncle. Which means, Seun is my play cousin. Hanging out with my boy, the Crown Prince of Afrobeat.

Kalakuta Republic Museum
For years Kalakuta Republic was a place that lived in my imagination. The actual home of one of my patron saints, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Kalakuta Republic was the socio-political and ideological headquarters and living quarters for the late great father of Afrobeat and contemporary Pan-Africanism.

In 2012, the home was converted into a museum, to preserve not only his remains but Fela’s legacy and serve as the family’s headquarters for Felabration. Today, it also plays host to the rehearsal spot for Fela’s youngest son and my good friend, Seun Kuti.

Seun and Egypt 80 practice there weekly for hours. Upstairs is a local hangout spot and bar for neighborhood youth. We had the opportunity to hang out with Seun and crew and got a tour of his dad’s home turned-museum.

The museum is in Ikeja, in the heartland of Lagos City, about an hour’s drive from the island. Click here to learn more about the museum.

CCA Lagos
Another place I’ve been wanting to visit is the Centre for Contemporary Art in Lagos. Founded by curator Bisi Silva in 2007, the center preserves, exhibits, and discusses contemporary Nigerian art and visual culture.

In addition to its gallery space, the center houses one of the largest visual art libraries in Africa. When my friend Tayo took me there, she introduced me to brilliant young artist Kelani Abass, whose exhibition If I Could Save Time was on view in CCA’s galleries.

Bisi is as brilliant as she is sweet and CCA is a much needed institution. CCA is located on the mainland in Yaba. ccalagos.org

 

Lekki Conservation
If you google what to do in Lagos, one of the top tourist attractions is Lekki Conservation. Since the in-loves lived in Lekki, I naturally assumed that it was right down the road (that’s also how far away our driver described the distance). It was a little further than down the road but it was worth the trip.

Growing up a five minutes drive away from the swamp, I’ve always been enamored with nature and botanical landscapes. The conversation is a quiet walk into local fauna, an oasis away from the urban hustle and bustle that is Lagos.

For whatever reason, I encouraged my brother-in-love to trek up the six suspension bridges that took us on a journey into the sky above the trees. It wasn’t as scary as I thought it would be, perhaps testament that I’m slowly overcoming my fear of heights.

We saw some local wildlife including peacocks and had a meditative, peaceful good time. ncfnigeria.org/projects/lekki-conservation-centre

Jazzhole

Jazzhole was yet another socially hip place that we got put onto by friends. This time, it was a suggestion by Afrobeat queen Wunmi. A group of us headed there after treating ourselves to post-brunch sorbet at Hans & Rene.

The place was fantastic! There were all kinds of classic vinyl albums from all over the continent. There were also loads of books, magazines and cds.

Between browsing and listening, you will probably engage in profound conversations with the founders or one of the Jazzhole’s intellectual patrons.

There’s also a cozy cafe situated in the back that carries assorted teas and small bites. Check out this Black Fabulousity post about Jazzhole and its owners here.

The New Afrika Shrine
The first time I went to the Shrine was in 2007. It felt more like a dream than something that actually happened in real life.

Femi performed, I probably had my share of African cabbage and cried. LOL. I was so overwhelmed at the idea that I was at Fela’s shrine. Granted, it wasn’t the original edifice, but the spirit of Fela lives there.

We missed Seun’s show, which is the last Sunday of each month but we were able to catch Femi live. The show was nice and laid back.

I’m undoubtedly a bigger fan of Seun’s than Femi but it’s well worth the trip. The Shrine is in Ikeja. It’s a must do for any true Fela disciple. thenewafrikashrine.com

Two Sisters Created the Only Luxury Chocolate Brand Made in Africa

11 mins read

Although West African countries produce over seventy percent of the world’s cocoa, I’ll bet you can’t name one African chocolate brand. Why? Because most of the Continent’s cocoa is exported to foreign countries that produce their own brands.

Fortunately, there are now African chocolate makers getting into the game. Meet sisters, Priscilla and Kimberly Addison. They are the founders of 57 Chocolate, a Ghanaian made chocolate brand.

Priscilla and Kimberly Addison, Founders of 57 Chocolate

SB: What inspired you to start 57 Chocolate and what does the name mean?

57C: Having spent time living in Geneva, Switzerland, we thought it was strange that Switzerland is known for its chocolate but yet doesn’t grow cocoa, the core ingredient in chocolate. Meanwhile, Ghana is the second largest producer of cocoa but produces very little chocolate itself. We saw a vast need for the manufacturing of chocolate in Ghana and across the continent of Africa.

In Ghana, the candy shelves of supermarkets and malls are overflowing with foreign chocolate bars, many undoubtedly made with Ghana’s very own cocoa. Having recognized all this, we were determined to use Ghanaian cocoa to create a Ghanaian brand of chocolate that is reputable locally and internationally. Chocolate really piqued our interest because it allows us a lot of creativity.

We get to experiment with different factors such as how dark to roast the beans, the percentage of cocoa to include, and creating different flavors and parings (e.g. sea salt, coconut shavings etc). We also love chocolate because it really is a healthy treat if you choose chocolate that is high in cocoa content.

The name ‘57 is short for 1957—the year of Ghana’s independence. 1957 was a revolutionary year for the country, not only because it was freed from colonial rule, but it is the year that gave birth to the nation’s “can do” spirit. The name ‘57 is meant to inspire a reawakening of Ghana’s 1957 “can do” spirit.

It is a call and reminder that sometimes in order to go forward, we need to look back at our foundation—our roots. ‘57 Chocolate aims to inspire the people of Ghana, especially the youth to create and develop made in Ghana high quality products.

SB: What has been the most challenging and the most fulfilling part of your entrepreneurial journey so far?

57C: A major challenge for us with starting the business was dumsor– a popular Ghanaian word used to describe the unpredictable power outages. Ghana has been undergoing a power crisis and our business requires a study supply of electricity in order to produce and store our chocolate, since it is made from the cocoa bean to the chocolate bar.

The most fulfilling part of our journey is seeing the joy our chocolate brings to our clients, and knowing that we are adding value to a resource right at home. Many people thought this would be impossible to achieve. Additionally, it’s the support and encouragement that we’ve received from near and far. We have received several inquiries about investments and whether we ship our chocolate abroad.  

 

SB: How important is it to you that African countries manufacture more products instead of importing?

57C: We believe manufacturing is crucial for the growth and survival of any economy. There is a vast need for manufacturing in Ghana and across the continent of Africa. Ghana is the second largest producer of cocoa on the African continent but, very little value is added to the bean itself. We think it’s time to change this narrative.

SB: What are some the different flavors that you produce that are unique to your brand? 

57C: Currently, we have 6 signature chocolates: dark (2 kinds including 88 percent baobab and 73 percent dark chocolate), milk, white, mocha latte (coffee flavor) and bissap (hibiscus flavor) chocolate. We pair our chocolates with various ingredients like coconut and sea salt.

Other services we provide include catering for events and chocolate pairings/tastings for groups (a minimum of 6 people). 

SB: How important is it that your branding was is on point from the design of the chocolate to the packaging?

57C: Branding from start to finish is incredibly important to us, given that we aim to challenge the status quo of luxury chocolate being only a product of Europe. What is most unique about our brand is that we produce chocolate that is a reflection and celebration of Ghanaian art and culture, particularly through our Adinkra bars.

These bite-sized bars are beautifully engraved with visual symbols created by the Ashanti of Ghana. We have a collection of 12 different Adinkra symbols, each representing a concept or a particular meaning such as leadership, beauty, humility, strength, and resourcefulness. We will be adding more concepts to our collection in the coming year.

SB: You’ve lived in multiple countries around the world. In what ways has this influence your brand?

57C: Our brand has certainly been influenced by the places we’ve been lucky to call home. Living in Switzerland—(one of the country’s most known for its chocolate) we had the opportunity to sample a lot of quality chocolate and so we wanted to create a brand that also exuded excellence.

Our return to Ghana was simply a re-awakening of the need to manufacture chocolate from bean to bar—right at home. The Adinkra chocolates we offer pay homage to our Ghanaian roots.’57 Chocolate is more than just chocolate. It’s about art and culture. This aspect is reflected in everything we do and our brand as a whole.

Living in multiple countries has also influenced our chocolate flavors. For example, having grown up in Dakar, Senegal we drank Bissap (a drink made from hibiscus leaves) often.  It was truly a treat for us and our three older siblings. It was always in our fridge and a fresh batch never lasted more than 3 days.

For years we watched our mom steep copious amounts of hibiscus leaves in hot water with cloves, sieve and mix in sugar, vanilla, homemade ginger and pineapple juice. We wanted to somehow recreate this tangy but fruity taste from our childhood and pay tribute to this drink that cherished around the world. Bissap is also enjoyed in Ghana, but it’s more popularly known as sobolo.

It is always eye-opening going into a local mall or grocery store here in Ghana and seeing that 99.9 percent of the goods sold are imported.  Foreign soaps, fruits, dog food, juices, chocolate, tomatoes, flour, sugar, and even toothpicks (to name a few) flood the aisles of Ghana’s supermarkets. The country imports goods that its people can either grow or manufacture.

It is known that Ghana primarily exports its resources in its rawest forms–the cocoa bean is a perfect example. We believe in adding value to our local resources by processing and manufacturing them into finished goods. We also believe in patronizing and purchasing other locally made goods and products when we can.  

When people manufacture or purchase locally made goods, we are helping Ghana’s economy grow. Our hope to one day walk into Ghana’s supermarkets and see high quality made in Ghana goods dominating the aisles.

SB: Where do you see your company in 5 years?

57C: We will continue to provide high-quality products that reflect Ghanaian art and culture to our customers. We also plan to continue to create gainful job opportunities as we expand our operations.

SB: What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

57C: It is important to know and understand the factors that can either benefit or hurt the operations of your business. There is a saying that goes: knowing your customer is paramount for business success. While this is true, we also believe knowing the business climate—where you work is of equal importance.


Also, we believe it is a great time to be in Africa. Africans and Africans in the Diaspora are showing the world that the continent has an incredible amount of potential, worth, and creativity.

Entrepreneurs, change-makers, and bloggers are writing a positive narrative for the continent—contrary to how the global media normally portrays the continent (e.g. typical depictions of abject poverty and civil war). We encourage African youth to actively participate in contributing to this positive narrative.

For a complete list of 57 Chocolate products and to book a tasting, visit their website.  

 

-Tony Oluwatoyin Lawson

 

22 Black Owned Businesses in the UK

2 mins read

Here it is! Our third list of Black Owned Businesses in the UK! As usual, we’re delighted to find out that so many amazing Black owned businesses exist across the pond.

 

Black Owned Businesses in the UK

Detola and Geek offers African inspired handmade fabric lampshades, cushions & other home decor products.

 

Jamaican Patty Co. offers simple takeaway for traditional Jamaican patties, plus soups, coffee, juice and imported cakes.

Black Owned Businesses

Elizabeth’s Cake Emporium creates amazing cakes that dazzle the eye and the taste buds. The company has a prestigious list of clients including royalty, celebrities, TV shows, five-star hotels and glamorous West End stores.

Black Owned Businesses

 

Momineral Mineral Makeup is specifically formulated for dark skin to even the skin tone, provide nourishment and protection while enhancing natural beauty.

Brown coconut oil offers Handmade organic brown coconut oil.

Sunu Ker creates 100% natural, plant-based beauty products and handmade accessories inspired by African beauty.

The Wild Peanut makes flavoured gourmet peanut butter with no preservatives and no additives.

Black Owned Businesses

Ebony Status delivers fresh Caribbean fruits and vegetables to your door.

Kelechnekoff Studio offers a range of pole fitness and twerk lessons.

 

New Beacon Books is the UK’s longest running independent book store specialising in African Caribbean literature, cards and artwork.

Jamaican Valley produces and distributes blends of Jamaican herbs and spices.

INOIR is trend in fashion designed for a lounge athletic aesthetic that is worn in other settings, casual or social occasions.

Afrocenchix blends natural and organic ingredients with expertise to make hair care as simple as possible.

Moor Hair is a beauty supply store that offers hair and skin care products with a natural twist.

Ayannas offers classic Jamaican dishes in a modern and elegant environment.

Nia Ballerina has designed a children’s musical jewelry box with a Black ballerina.

Nice Nails Baby is a nail salon that provides fabulous nails, 3D nail designs, great waxing, beautiful tinting, and stunning eye.

 

Me by Amma Gyan produces handmade pouffes, bags, purses, and leather jewelry for men and women.

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Some of the Dopest Black Women You’ve Never Heard Of

8 mins read

“In search of my mother’s garden, I found my own” wrote Alice Walker in her seminal essay about artistic Black women who graced this Earth with very little, if any, fanfare.

Their works were often forgotten, their voices muted, their styles co-opted, and in the case of Zora Neale Hurston, their bodies were buried without tombstones.

black women
alice walker

As Walker immersed herself in the life stories of other Black women, she came to understand her voice and the power that we relinquish when we don’t honor our own.

I think of my literary foremothers often, especially in our current cultural environment. There has been a lot of discussion as of late about Black women—our fragility, our magic, our invisibility, our power. These are private conversations turned public that are long overdue.

In many ways, we are reclaiming the genius that we call Black female creativity and we are doing it in spaces that once denied our very existence.

The only problem with reclaiming things is that we sometimes forget the people who came before us who tilted the infertile soil that made it possible for us to pave the roads that we now call our own.

In particular, I am reminded of a group of Black women who served as the Mount Rushmore of Black womanhood. You may know them as individuals, but not many of us know about the group that they formed together.

Harriet Tubman, Frances E.W. Harper, Margaret Murray Washington, Ida B. Wells, Mary Church Terrell and Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin were each powerful in her own right, but collectively, they created a movement called the National Association of Colored Women (NACW) that would sweep this nation. And they did it with the motto, “Lifting as we Climb” as their guiding light.

(For today’s readers, this would be the equivalent of Oprah, Beyoncé, Michelle Obama, Maxine Waters, and Toni Morrison coming together and using their collective platforms for one cause.)

black women
harriet tubman

Tired of the injustices being espoused by white southern journalists who viewed Black women with disdain and wrote scathing articles that called into question their humanity and morality, these women said enough is enough.

Rather than just sitting around pontificating about the problem and shifting blame, they decide to do something about it.

Frances E.W. Harper

They were strategic. Washington D.C. was the organization’s launching point, but to have real impact, the women knew that the clubs needed to touch every segment of Black America from its urban epicenters to its rural and remote corners.

As the word spread about the clubs, they started sprouting up in cities across America.

Margaret Murray Washington

Their purpose was intentional and their mission was specific—leverage the power of Black women as mothers, wives, consumers, educators, business owners, intellectuals, and thought leaders to change the ways in which Black people were treated in America.

This was before the NAACP, before any Black sorority was founded and before Black women could even vote.

Ida B. Wells

With an emphasis on culture, politics, education, and voting rights, the NACW once had over 300 clubs across America.

They made a profound impact on how Black women were viewed and perceived in the public eye before fading into obscuring in the 1930’s as America’s culture shifted.

Mary Church Terrell

So, why does this matter today?

There is a dominant narrative about Black women playing out in popular culture right now that is dangerous.

If observed with an uncritical eye, you just might believe that Black women see each other as competition or as threatening. Even more problematic is the misnomer that a benign disagreement will lead to a physical altercation.

Yes, I know reality TV shows, in particular, often pit women against each other because drama sells. However, whose reality is this?

I don’t know about you, but I don’t fight my friends; yet, we have young people who watch these shows, internalize the message, and then behave accordingly.

Young girls see many of these images as examples of Black womanhood and it creates the misnomer that we can’t or won’t get along. And if you think it’s just TV, think again.

The one group that is being disciplined and suspended at the most alarming, disproportionate rate is Black girls and their number one offense is often fighting.

What if the narrative shifted and we saw each other as potential partners, collaborators, and supporters? Can you imagine how different our schools and our communities would be if our girls, from an early age, embraced their true potential?

What would it look like if they aspired not just for material comforts, but for greatness?

We must lift as we climb—not just as a slogan that makes us feel good about ourselves, but because it is in our cultural DNA. And that’s why learning about some of the dopest Black women in American history is so important.

We already have a blueprint. If they did it in 1896, what’s stopping us in 2017?

 

Dr. Tyra Seldon is a professional writer, motivational speaker, and the Founder and CEO of

Seldon Writing Group, LLC. She has worked with a wide range of clients ranging from Dr. Boyce

Watkins, Damon Dash, and Kenyatta Griggs to Freelancers Union, National Geographic and

OpenEd. Her articles often explore the intersections of race, culture, gender, and identity. She

can be reached at seldonwritinggroup@hotmail.com

Black Women
Dr. Tyra Seldon

 

Meet Bukky Karibi-Whyte, CEO of Nigeria’s Top Public Relations Firm

8 mins read

Bukky Karibi-Whyte is the CEO and founder of Robert Taylor Media, one of the premiere communications agencies in Nigeria, an agency which houses Communications Firms Invicta Africa and Bobby Taylor Company as well as three other brands.

Her company represents brands like BROOMFIELD Law, SPAR, Dom Perignon, Cyber Xchange, Henessy, Belvedere, Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and various events and personalities.

While in Lagos for Social Media Week, I dropped by her office to chat about the business scene in Lagos and to get a better idea of what she does. 

SB: What inspired you to leave Canada and move your business to Nigeria?

BKW: In Nigeria, you need to be physically present to be relevant. While running the firm in Canada, I would get a lot of emails saying my name kept coming up for PR gigs in Nigeria but noone wanted to hire me because I wasn’t “on ground”.

Eventually, one person took a risk and flew me in. We did a great job and I got paid the equivalent of a years salary where I worked in Canada. I moved back finally in 2009. 

Once I arrived in Lagos, It wasn’t hard to find my feet. There were few PR agencies in the lifestyle and luxury market and I saw this as an opportunity to fill that gap. 

 SB: Many people say the adjustment to moving back is hard. What was your experience?

BKW: It IS hard! I know people that moved back and left a few months after. Its almost like pledging a sorority or fraternity. Nigeria will test your endurance. I just wasn’t taking no for an answer. I came with the attitude of “I’m the best and you guys need this.”

Naija is great but you’ll be frustrated all the time. Do you know how many times a press release was supposed to go out at noon and at 11:58am electricity goes out and the internet has gone off? Next thing you know, the client is calling frantically for their release. 

Or imagine you’ve been invited to pitch a client in Ikeja with a massive budget and there’s traffic on third mainland bridge isn’t moving and you miss the meeting and they don’t wanna hear why.

SB: Describe the ideal client?

BKW: All of my clients are ideal. I say that because for me, business is very personal. I only work with brands that I personally buy into and use their goods or services. I’m confident enough to go to any tv station or magazine publication and say these guys are the best.

It isn’t just about business to me. If it was, i’d be a whole lot richer (Laughs). I actually turn down business if i don’t believe in the brand or don’t think its a good fit. If I don’t buy it i’m not selling it.

 

SB: How does an international or even a Nigerian brand survive in this market?

BKW: One, they have to understand that the same formula that works abroad won’t work here. We are very fickle and lose interest very quickly. That’s why you hear a huge buzz about a certain brand one day and three months later, there’s nothing.

That’s because you have to engage people. The brands that last are the ones that keep changing and evolving and keeping up with trends.

You need a plan to continually engage.You can’t hire an agency to introduce you and then end the agency relationship once the introduction has been made. The work only really begins after the introduction. Now the brand has to show the public that they are who they say they are.

 

SB: You studied African American History in college. How did that change your mindset as an African and what are your thoughts on how to improve relations between Africans and African Americans?

BKW: I continue to say that with Africans and African Americans all we need is major DIALOGUE and SUPPORT of one another. I see it slowly happening. On major holidays i see a few African Americans come to Nigeria and Nigerians are always in the U.S.

Even in regards to African American Greek Lettered Organization, you find a lot of Nigerians getting involved. I am a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.

Every year I fly to the states for conferences and to spend time with my second family (my Sorors). We do however need more work. I am proud to have studied African American History in college. 

SB: Is there a growing movement to support made in Nigeria products and Nigerian owned businesses?

BKW: Yes there is a growing movement. There are people that are not in support of our current Government but I personally feel that our present Government  has forced us to look inward. A lot of people are becoming entrepreneurs. A lot of people are turning their hobbies into businesses.

There’s a massive opportunity for Nigerian brands to excel in these present times.

Bukky showed me a picture in her office that was taken by photographer Seun O who previously covered weddings and special events. Now he recently launched a series called “Ladipo: Gods of Machines” and just had an exhibition where she bought his work. “Everyone is getting creative and its amazing.” she said.

Bukky Karibi-Whyte

“Don’t get me wrong, people are still very financially buoyant but we are now looking locally to support our quality local brands. There is a huge demand for QUALITY products and services. Give us quality and we will buy.”

 SB: Where do you see yourself and your company in 5 years?

BKW: I want to remain boutique. I also want to teach at the universities and create mini publications that are useful to PR and communications professionals. I get a lot of PR interns and after seeing their course works I can tell that there’s a lot of fundamentals being taught but nothing practical. I am very interested in the educational and advisory space. 

 SB: What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

BKW: Bring something unique to the market. Everything is already here. Be tenacious and don’t take no for an answer.

 

-Tony Oluwatoyin Lawson

How This Intimate Apparel and Beauty Brand Got into Major Retail Stores Across the Country

6 mins read

As an entrepreneur, getting a major retailer to carry your brand can be a challenge. Getting several top retailers to carry your brand is even harder. However, that’s exactly what UI Global Brands LLC did. We chatted with one half of the Texas-based husband and wife duo, Psyche and Vontoba Terry, to find out more about their journey and success.

SB: What inspired you to start UI Global brands?

VT: We started UI Global Brands because we wanted to give people products that would make them happier and healthier. Psyche was taking an entrepreneurship course in her MBA program and I was wrapping up an M.A. in Economics at UNLV.

Psyche was always trying different business ideas and testing her concepts on our friends in Las Vegas. We started with great-smelling body butters that were natural and made for people who were tired of dry skin. A month later we added lingerie for women who wanted fashionable products at an affordable price.


Shortly after launching, we were pregnant with our first son, and Psyche’s body changed. Psyche saw a need that wasn’t being met for women like her (she went from a B cup to a G cup) and launched a new plus-size collection for women who wanted fashionable intimates that flattered their curves.

SB: Describe the “Workshop at Macy’s” and explain how it changed the game for you?

VT: The Workshop at Macy’s was life-changing. We were a small e-commerce shop before meeting the Macy’s team. The Workshop gave us a crash course on how to sell our intimate apparel collection to a major retailer like Macy’s.

We met game changers like Lisa Price and Daymond John and learned the ins and outs of strategic retail marketing and retail math. We used that knowledge to expand our skincare business as well, and within two months of the workshop, we had our first wholesale skincare customer, TJMaxx. Psyche visits the Workshop at Macy’s regularly to share her experience and inspire new participants.

SB: What has been the most challenging experience on your entrepreneurial journey so far? What has been the most exciting?

VT: The most challenging experience has been making more people aware of the great products that we produce and where they can buy them. We make natural body products and natural hair care products that are as good as or better than a lot of products on the market.

We also produce quality bras at affordable prices and size-inclusive lingerie made with attention to detail. The most exciting aspect of our journey has been traveling around the country to Macy’s stores and Sally Beauty stores, and hearing from customers who have fallen in love with our Inspire Psyche Terry, Audrey Olivia, and Urban Hydration products.

SB: How do you handle being a business partner with your spouse?

VT: It was difficult for the first few months. We have been in business for 8 years, and for the first 6 years, I was working at a bank full-time and doing what I could in the evenings and weekends to support the business as it grew. In 2015, I left corporate and joined the company full-time.

We learned how to communicate better and “stay in our lanes” by understanding what we do best and trusting each other to handle our side of the business. We meet every day about different topics and there are no secrets. If we make a mistake, we own it, and then we grow from it. But it isn’t easy. It takes effort every day.

SB: What is the biggest business related risk you have taken?

VT: In 2015, we opened a factory within 30 days of finding out that a factory couldn’t make our natural Urban Hydration sugar scrubs for an order that was going to 3 national retailers the next month. Psyche was 35 weeks pregnant and we had no capital to finance the opening.

We received 30 day terms from our suppliers, received the first month free on a warehouse, and called every church member, friend, and relative we knew to work on the assembly line. Three weeks later, we delivered more than 15,000 units to our customers and saved those relationships.

SB: Where do you see the business in 5 years?

VT: In 5 years, we will have expanded our natural hair and bath business, Urban Hydration, into more retail doors, and we plan to grow our Audrey Olivia bra collection into more sizes and expand our Inspire Psyche Terry luxury lingerie collection into more store locations and boutiques.

 

SB: What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

VT: Know why you want to be an entrepreneur and what makes you special. There are many products and services vying for the attention of buyers and you must stand out in a crowded marketplace. Learn your competitors and highlight what makes you different and better.

Find out more about UI Global Brands LLC here.

 

Tony Oluwatoyin Lawson

Black Owned Footwear Brand Blends British and Jamaican Culture

7 mins read

Uptown Yardie is a Black owned footwear brand that makes you stop and stare. Ever since we discovered this brand, we’ve been in awe of their bold and unique styles.

We decided to chat with the owners, husband and wife team, Rohan and Natasha Clarke to find out more about their brand.

black owned footwear
Rohan and Natasha Clarke, owners of Uptown Yardie

What inspired you to start this business?

The designer behind the brand is Rohan Clarke. He trained at the London School of Fashion Cordwainers and had worked for several shoe companies. But the one thing that frustrated him was being told that his designs couldn’t be made.

black owned footwear

He knew that this wasn’t true because not only does he design shoes he also makes shoes. He was disillusioned, but his wife convinced him that he could do this himself and so with some gentle persuasion this husband and wife team started Uptown Yardie.

black owned footwear

How did you come up with the name Uptown Yardie and what does it mean?

Uptown Yardie is a British company inspired by Jamaican heritage, selling a lifestyle, captured through shoes and clothes.

The name is inspired by a Bob Marley quotation “me ah bring downtown uptown” meaning he is bringing the man dem from the ghetto to where he was living uptown at the time. The original uptown yardie is someone who comes from the more affluent parts of Jamaica.

For us using the term Uptown Yardie is about reclaiming the name from a negative association to a positive. To the true meaning of the word “yard” which to a Jamaican means home. For instance, “nowhere nah better dan yard” mean nowhere is better than home.

black owned footwear

What separates your brand from the numerous other shoe brands in the market?

The Uptown Yardie brand creates for a progressive man or woman who does not follow fashion. We design for people like us who have a passion and love for things that are well crafted and that has more longevity than one season.

We believe that a shoe should have a distinctive and individual character that is shaped through the ideas and vision of its designer and craftsman who are united and driven by a common goal, a common spirit to create the most beautiful shoes.

Each piece has been carefully selected by our team to ensure it embodies the qualities of style, elegance, and exclusivity synonymous with the Uptown Yardie brand whilst reflecting the unique philosophies of design and craftsmanship for which Rohan Clarke the designer is renowned.

What has been the most challenging and most rewarding part about owning your own business?

The most challenging part of owning your own business is realizing that you have to have many strings to your bow, you have to be more than a creative to make it work.

What we mean by that is the creativity of what we do is our passion but we need to be able to market what we do, we need to be able to understand how to maximize our online sales, we need to be social media experts.

All of these things take skill, expertise, and time. Juggling this, whilst maintaining creative time is a constant challenge. But we are learning and we are pulling in people who do have that expertise.

The most rewarding thing about owning your own business is loving what you do, seeing your passion come into fruition. In the past when we’ve worked for other people they want to be safe, they want to follow the crowd, it stifles innovation.

black owned footwear

Where do you see your brand in 5 years?

That it has an appeal to a diverse audience across the globe. Although the brand is inspired by our Jamaican heritage, Uptown Yardie is created to appeal to people that think outside the box.

It is a brand that crosses boundaries, ages, and races. Ultimately if we can do that and make the brand self-sufficient that’s where we want to be in 5 years’ time.

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Be prepared to put the work in. Owning your own business is not a 9-5. The other important aspect is to know your business inside out, costings, business forecasts, risks, and opportunities.

If you’re a creative, this isn’t the sexy stuff but it’s vital if you want what you to do to be more than a hobby. Ask yourself “If I was standing in front of a group of potential investors and they put me on the spot.

black owned footwear

How confident could I answer questions about my product and my business model?” If you’d struggle, then there is some homework to do. We did it, wrote a business plan with costings and forecasts. It was long, believe you me but we are more confident about exactly how much it costs to manufacture every aspect of a shoe, what the wholesale cost is, and the retail price based on a formula.

black owned footwear
Besides the above, if you have a dream and want to do it. Go for it. Don’t listen to the naysayers. You never know your idea might be the next big thing.

-Tony O. Lawson


 

Related: Black Owned Men’s Shoe brands

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