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london

3 mins read

KLIQ Secures €1.4 Million to Empower Creators as Business Owners

London-based KLIQ, a no-code business infrastructure platform empowering creators and solopreneurs, recently announced that it has secured €1.4 million in pre-seed funding.

The round was led by Serena Ventures, the early-stage venture capital firm established by tennis legend Serena Williams, which focuses on supporting founders from underrepresented backgrounds.

KLIQ empowers creators, regardless of their niche, to build and manage their own communities and businesses. This allows them to break free from dependence on major social media platforms and establish sustainable long-term careers.

The creator economy is experiencing explosive growth, with estimates suggesting it will reach a staggering half a trillion dollars in the next five years. However, this prosperity is not evenly distributed. According to Goldman Sachs, only around 4% of creators make over $100,000 annually, with the top earners often leveraging their audience beyond major platforms.

KLIQ aims to address this imbalance and empower creators as Ben Camara, founder and CEO of KLIQ, puts it: “KLIQ’s mission is to shift the creator paradigm from content generation to comprehensive business ownership,” Camara added, “We’re not just helping people create content; it’s about creating a business.”

KLIQ’s platform provides the tools and resources creators need to go beyond content creation and become business owners. Here are some of the features KLIQ offers:

  • No-code app development: Creators can build and manage their own branded apps without needing programming expertise.
  • Monetization tools: KLIQ facilitates various income streams, including subscriptions, pay-per-view content, and merchandise sales.
  • AI-powered business insights: Their AI Business Assistant provides valuable data and analytics to help creators understand their audience and optimize their strategies.

Camara emphasizes the urgency of KLIQ’s mission, particularly “amidst the backdrop of a potential TikTok ban and the volatility of digital advertising.” KLIQ’s solution offers creators a path to independence and resilience in the ever-changing social media landscape.

This funding round highlights the growing investor confidence in KLIQ’s potential to empower creators and reshape the creator economy. The participation of Serena Ventures, alongside existing investors like Techstars and former footballer Kieran Gibbs, underscores the diverse support KLIQ has garnered.

With this fresh capital injection, KLIQ is poised to empower creators to build sustainable businesses, own their data, and take control of their financial futures.

by Tony O. Lawson

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1 min read

Black Owned VC Firm in London Is Raising £100 Million to Invest in Black Founders

Recent reports have found that less than 1% of venture capital is invested in Black businesses in the US and the number for the UK is no better.

London based, Impact X Capital Partners is a Black owned venture capital firm that is raising £100 Million ($131 million) to support underrepresented entrepreneurs within the entertainment, media, tech, health, and digital industries.

We spoke with Ezechi Britton. Founding Member, Principal & CTO in Residence at Impact X Capital about several topics including:

  • The need for diversity in the tech industry
  • The importance of investing in Black founders
  • How entrepreneurs can position themselves to be attractive to investors

Don’t forget to LIKE the video and SUBSCRIBE to the channel!

Tony O. Lawson


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2 mins read

Black Owned Vegan Dessert Brand Invests $1.3 Million to Keep Up With Demand

Freaks of Nature is a Black owned Vegan dessert brand based in the UK. Peter Ahye launched Freaks of Nature in 2016 after identifying a gap in the market for inclusive, delicious tasting vegan and vegetarian snacks.

In January of 2020, the company launched a new chocolate mousse product and the demand far exceeded their expectations. Sales soared by 200% in three weeks and have been strong since then.

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Peter Ahye

The company is now investing £1 million ($1.3 million) to expand its manufacturing capacity due to the growing demand for its vegan desserts. They also have plans to build a second production line and invest in larger, more eco-friendly equipment with the goal of increasing production capacity by 400 percent.

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“This investment is very exciting and marks a significant turning point in our business,” Freaks of Nature founder Peter Ahye told Foodmanufacture UK. “In the first quarter of this year our production volumes were up by 100 percent, despite being held back by COVID-19, and strong indications show they are set to continue.”

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“We had a fantastic year last year developing a number of great new puds, growing our production capacity and attracting some significant new retailers. We also won a number of leading industry accolades including The Grocers Best Start Up award. Following the really positive interest we have already received for our new mousse and the unstoppable rise in veganism we’re seeing here in the UK, I think this next year is going to be an even more exciting one for us!”

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All of Freaks of Nature’s desserts are produced in its purpose-built facility which is British Retail Consortium (BRC) grade A accredited and is the largest factory of its kind in Europe.

 

-Tony O. Lawson

 

Related: Black Owned Snack Brands You Should Know


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2 mins read

9 Caribbean Restaurants In The UK

Caribbean cuisine is known and enjoyed for its exotic flavour. Our list of Caribbean Restaurants in the United Kingdom has some great choices that will leave those taste buds tingling.

Hopefully, you can handle the spice!

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Caribbean Restaurants In The UK

PandaBerry Caribbean restaurant & Jerk centre. We are family run business dedicated to serving you hot, delicious and nutritious food.

Levi Roots Caribbean Smokehouse aims to aim to serve the best Jerk Chicken in the world amongst other traditional Caribbean favourites.

The Rum Kitchen is a Caribbean eatery that bends the rules. We focus on bringing Caribbean beach shack drinks with travel inspired flavours to London.

Negril is a Simple, unfussy Caribbean restaurant with a traditional comfort food menu & outdoor seating.

Rudie’s is a hip Jamaican joint serving banging real jerk and small plates with a contemporary twist.

Cafe Caribbean is a counter-serve Caribbean joint with chalkboard menus listing familiar regional cuisine.

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

Fish, Wings & Tings is a compact restaurant dishing up a vibrant menu of Caribbean favourites at pavement tables.

Bokit’la is the first French Caribbean street food vendor based in London. It’s a family run business sharing a taste of Guadeloupe.

 

Also check out our list of African Restaurants in the UK.

 

Tony O. Lawson

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2 mins read

Top 12 African Restaurants in The UK

Whether you’re looking for savory dishes that originate from the East, West or South of the Continent, this list of African Restaurants in the United Kingdom has some great choices to explore.

African Restaurants in the UK

Couscous Darna deals in the fragrant and warming dishes of Marrakesh. They serve a unique list of Moroccan beers, wines and cocktails to explore.

Ikoyi is a Chic space with decor that reflects the cuisine: a modern twist on authentic West African flavours.

Squires African Restaurant has over ten years experience of delivering authentic West African cuisine.

Zoe’s Ghana Kitchen brings Ghanaian flavours to @Popbrixton and beyond.

Momo serves Couscous, tagines and lamb dishes in colourful setting filled with furnishings from a Moroccan souk.

Mosob is a family-run restaurant serving authentic, vibrant Eritrean cuisine in a setting that reflects the country’s culture, with original art and artifacts.

Sweet Handz blends a relaxed atmosphere with delicious authentic Ghanaian food.

Enish Restaurant is an upscale Nigerian restaurant in London serving the best Nigerian Food.

Hammer & Tongs entire menu is braai-cooked over Sickle Bush & Blackthorne wood imported directly from South Africa.

805 is a stylish, contemporary restaurant,in light and airy setting for Modern Nigerian and West African dishes.

Adulis serves Eritrean food, based on stews and unleavened bread, served for sharing, in modern-rustic setting.

Spinach and Agushi are famous for their home cooked Ghanaian street food sold at Exmouth, Broadway and Portobello Market in London.

Tony O. Lawson


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6 mins read

14 Black History Month Events in The UK (2017)

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Black History Month in the UK. As usual, there are several amazing events going on through October and beyond. Here are just a few:

Black History Month Events:

 

LEICESTER

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New Walk Jazz – celebrating Jazz Music and Black History Month, New Walk Museum & Art Gallery hosts its inaugural Jazz Music Concert Season – New Walk Jazz in their renowned fine art and music venue the Victorian Art Gallery. (Thursday 12, 19 and 26 October 7:00pm – 10:00pm)

Lost Legends is an exhibition that celebrates the contributions of Leicester’s African and African Caribbean community to the cultural heritage of the UK over the last three decades. (Ends Tuesday 31 October)

Black Skin White Mask – Exploring the life and work of the psychoanalytic theorist and activist Frantz Fanon, the Martinican-born, Paris-educated author, intellectual and activist. With his interest in violence, Black identity and psychiatry, tracing Fanon’s involvement in the anti-colonial struggle in Algeria and throughout the world. (October 18th)

 Greater London

Hank Willis Thomas: The Beautiful Game

Hank Willis Thomas: The Beautiful Game – In his first solo exhibition in the UK at Ben Brown Fine Arts, Hank Willis Thomas presents The Beautiful Game comprising new floor and wall based sculptures and quilts. The Beautiful Game will explore the intersection of art, sports and geopolitics.  (until 24 NOV 2017)

Join Dr. Boyce Watkins as he visits London in his mission to empower black people through the method of teaching financial literacy. Dr. Boyce will be at the historical venue “The Rock Tower” (from October 13th to the 14th)

Dr. Boyce Watkins

Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power – The show opens in 1963 at the height of the Civil Rights movement and its dreams of integration. Artists responded to these times by provoking, confronting, and confounding expectations. Their momentum makes for an electrifying visual journey.  (Until October 22nd)

Basquiat: Boom for Real is the first large-scale exhibition in the UK of the work of American artist Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960—1988). Basquiat: Boom for Real brings together an outstanding selection of more than 100 works, many never before seen in the UK. (Until January 28th 2018)

Basquiat: Boom for Real

Black Sound – Black Sound tells the story of 100 years of musical creativity and DIY ingenuity. Black British music has migrated from the margins to re-master the mainstream. This exhibition celebrates the pioneers that made it happen – the players, the promoters, the producers and the punters that changed Britain’s cultural history. (Until November 4th)

Africa on the Square – This popular event continues to grow with over 25,000 attending last year as it celebrates African arts and culture. You can expect another fantastic line-up of entertainment including live music, dancing and a talent show. Plus an African market, food stalls, fashion show and lots of fun stuff for kids. (October 14th)

Africa On The Square

The UK Black Business Show – The show will highlight the achievements and contributions black businesses have made to the economy. Attendees will gain cutting-edge insight and advice in entrepreneurship, leadership, soft skills and cultural development from some of the UK’s leading black business owners.

NorthEast

Three Days… a Queen, a Prince and a ‘King’ – A display celebrating 40 years since World Heavyweight Boxing Champion Muhammad Ali visited South Shields, featuring images and objects from his visit. (Until December 16th)

NorthWest

Black History Month
Lubaina Himid

Lubaina Himid: Meticulous Observations and Naming the Money features works selected by Lubaina from the Arts Council Collection, alongside 20 figures from her major installation Naming the Money.

The full installation Naming the Money was gifted by the artist to the International Slavery Museum. It addresses how Europe’s wealthy classes spent their money and flaunted their power in the 18th and 19th centuries, by using enslaved African men and women. (Until March 2018)

Ink and Blood –  a curator-led tour of our fascinating exhibition Ink and blood: stories of abolition, which brings together iconic documents and rare objects to explore the stories of those affected by abolition (the ending of slavery) and later freedom. (October 19th)

 SouthWest

Black Ballet – In this latest mixed bill, Artistic Director Cassa Pancho commissions bold choreography once more, blending the classical and contemporary, narrative and abstract, for her ballet company comprising British and international dancers of black and Asian descent.

 

Check out the other BHM @30 events at blackhistorymonth.org.uk

 

 

by Tony Oluwatoyin Lawson

IG @thebusyafrican

 

2 mins read

22 Black Owned Businesses in the UK

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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1 min read

Black Owned Food & Beauty Businesses in the UK

We’re back with more Black-owned businesses based in the UK! These offer something for your taste buds and your personal style. Check them out and support!

Black Owned Food & Beauty Businesses in the UK

Colour Riot Nails is a cool girly nail haven specializing in bespoke nail treatments and nail art.

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TreasureTress is the UK’s first monthly subscription box for women and girls with kinky, curly, coily, or frizzy hair.

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Love Chin Chin is the company responsible for introducing ‘Chin Chin’, a sweet snack popular in West Africa, into the UK market.

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Dark Sugars Cocoa House offers the culture of West African cocoa production. At the Cocoa House, you can sway your hips to the sound of the Senegalese sabar, or taste some pitch Black Hot Chocolate.

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Chikas offers a delicious range of West African inspired snacks.

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-Tony O. Lawson

If you would like to add your business to this list (or another) SUBMIT HERE.


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3 mins read

6 Black Owned Banks in the UK

Several members of the SHOPPE BLACK community in London and surrounding areas have reached out to us asking if we know of any Black Owned banks in the UK.

The short answer: Of course we do!

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However, we strongly advise doing your own research also in order to make the best decision with your hard earned money.

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If you are interested in moving to a Black owned bank, and we assume you are, we also recommend taking a hard look at the leadership and management teams of the banks you are considering. As with any other type of business, a Black CEO does not necessarily mean a Black owned/controlled bank.

With that being said, here’s our list:

Black Owned Banks in the UK

FBN Bank (UK) is a wholly owned subsidiary of First Bank of Nigeria Plc, with offices in the heart of the City of London. FBN was incorporated as a Limited Liability Company in March 1894, with a head office in Liverpool. They are the “London bank for Nigerians, either resident in the UK or simply visiting.” MD and CEO: Dr. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan (FCA)

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Guaranty Trust Bank (UK) Limited is the fully owned subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, one of the leading financial services providers in Nigeria. They have business operations spanning the United Kingdom, West Africa and East Africa. Managing Director and CEO: Adekunle Adebiyi

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Ghana International Bank (GHIB) which was incorporated in 1998, took over the London operations of Ghana Commercial Bank with the latter retaining a 20% ownership of the new bank. Ownership is now shared with other Ghanaian state institutions. The Central Bank of Ghana is the major shareholder (51%) while other stakes are held by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust. Managing Director and CEO: Joe Mensah

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UBA Capital Europe Limited is a wholesale, investment bank and the London banking subsidiary of UBA Plc. It is also the first sub-Saharan bank to expand into North America when it opened its New York office in 1984 to offer banking services to Africans in Diaspora. Chairman: Tony O. Elumelu

black owned banks

Zenith Bank (UK) Ltd is a member of the Nigerian-based Zenith Bank Group. In March 2007, Zenith Bank was licensed by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) of the United Kingdom to establish Zenith Bank (UK) Limited. Zenith Bank Plc also has subsidiaries and representative offices in West Africa, South Africa and The People’s Republic of China. Chairman and Co-founder: Jim Ovia

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Union Bank (UK )Plc is a subsidiary of the Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, one of the oldest banks in West Africa. They have been operating in London since 1983, firstly as the London branch of their parent bank, and since October 2004 as an independently incorporated UK bank. Chief Executive Officer: Emeka Emuwa

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5 mins read

Black Owned Businesses in the UK

Our second list of Black owned businesses in the UK is here by popular demand! If you haven’t seen the first list, check it out. Otherwise, enjoy and support these amazing Black owned businesses in the UK!

Black Owned Businesses in the UK

My Duvets offers customized bed linen and pillowcases.

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Lela and Mosi is an exciting new character brand offering adorable Backpacks & Tees designed with the Lela and Mosi icon – Showcasing the beauty of Black girls and boys.

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Savage Curves Boutique strives to provide affordable fierce fashion for the curvy millennial woman.

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LoveGift Vegan Cafe offers home-style vegan cuisine with Caribbean influence.

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FunkynChunky sells handmade handmade bags, bow ties, bracelets and necklaces from West Africa.

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 Michelle Buabin is passionate about creating grand floral designs for occasions and individuals that need luxury floral arrangements.

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3D Parties is your one stop shop for inflatables, media services and children’s food machines.

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Shear and Shine Grooming is a barbershop that has produced the UK’s first Black-owned grooming brand for Black men.

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Xsandy’s Hair & Cosmetics are the only Black owned beauty supply stores in SE London. They offer a wide range of the best and most popular hair care products for natural, relaxed and protected hair at competitive prices.

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Pretty Girlz Rock products promote that all little girls are ‘pretty’ inside and out regardless of what they look like.

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Cake Junkies UK specializes in feeding your cravings with memorable cakes and sweet delights for all occasions.

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Ten&Lee is a niche swimwear brand inspired by the Caribbean offering a range of reversible two in one pieces.

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Freddie Onuma of Mintt Photography, offers a wide selection of photography services, from portrait, weddings, christenings, maternity, fashion and product images.

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Tan Rosie offers UK’s tastiest Hot Sauces, Jerk Seasoning and Caribbean Recipes.

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Looks Like Me is a children’s modelling agency that aims to increase inclusivity and raise the profile of underrepresented black and brown children in the media.

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Lazy Lunch is a food delivery service that makes it easy for offices in Birmingham to choose, order and arrange free delivery of nutritionally balanced, tasty food that caters for a variety of diets.

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One Stop Dreadlock  is an established natural hair salon based in North London, specialising in new and existing dreadlocks for all hair types.

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Yana Cosmetics is a premium make up brand for the ethnic market, which started by specializing in custom blended foundations for black women and has developed a full range of make up and skincare for all skin types.

Yana Johnson of Yana Cosmetics Brockley. © 2008 Ian Stratton 07860 490841

TLC Naturals offers artisan & botanical hair products formulated to Renew, Restore & Rejuvenate your hair & skin back to a state of wellness, health and beauty.

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Premae Skincare is an award winning, certified allergen-free beauty company that produces the UK’s 1st allergen certified Vegan Beauty Brand for skincare and makeup that’s perfect for eczema, blemishes & anti-ageing.

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Sonayon is a maker of hand-crafted natural toiletries, candles and fashion accessories.

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Choco Fruit is a yummy Belgian chocolate covered fruit business. They offer chocolate covered fruit dessert, covered in milk, dark and white chocolate, garnished with an array of fun mouth watering toppings.

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Herbals Direct offers all natural herbs and products. Dr. Sebi products in the UK.

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Christal Cosmetics offer a top-to-toe specialist service for Black and ethnic skin. Their treatment menu covers all your beauty needs from waxing, manicure, pedicure, express or complete spa services.

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Arteh Creative is the brainchild of Arteh Odjidja. He is a photographer and art director that has worked with everyone from Ozwald Boateng to Red Bull. Arteh experiments with fashion photography, portraiture and social documentary.

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-Tony O. Lawson

If you would like to add your business to this list (or another) SUBMIT HERE.


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