Black History Month may be over but your support for black business shouldn’t be. I’ve discussed my passion for supporting women owned businesses before but anyone that knows me knows I also believe in supporting minority owned businesses. My company, UNIGLOBE Travel Designers is both MBE and WBE certified and we make a strong effort to support and build up other M/WBE businesses.

 

Here are just some black businesses in our local Columbus and Atlanta communities that I’m inspired by and proudly support:

 

LivSo

I have known the founder, Shari Hicks Graham, of LivSo for many years. She was one of the reasons I applied to Spelman College.  I felt that if I could be anything like her, I would be on the right track.  Shari is not only an incredible dermatologist but she also launched her own hair care brand, LivSo.  She has taken the market by storm and the products significantly improve and promote healthy hair care.  If you haven’t tried LivSo, they offer a $2 sample on their website -- and you can also find my testimonial on their page.

 

Replenish Spa

My dear friends own Replenish Spa in Columbus, Ohio.  When you walk into the space you immediately feel calm and at peace.  You are greeted with a kind smile along with a cup of tea.  From facials, to massages, to yoga - Replenish Spa has you covered.  Whenever I go to Replenish, I feel much better when I leave. Even if I only have a 30-minute treatment, my perspective is better and my energy is positive. I made a promise to myself to dedicate time to self-care, and I intend to do that quarterly at Replenish. Deja, Chanelle, and Wauvette have done a fantastic job creating a second home for residents and visitors to the Columbus community.  Replenish is my peaceful place and I am proud this spa is in my community and I can visit quickly to get refreshed and revived.

 

 

Personal Fitness Navigators

Rokki Bonner transformed my life.  I worked out for many years but I was stuck in a rut.  Luckily for me, I had the courage to meet with Rokki and have my body fat percentage taken. That experience was eye opening!  I took my first bootcamp class that evening.  I learned a healthier approach to food and I developed a healthier perspective of my body image while I was able to get into the best fitness shape.  Rokki has a gentle approach but she is tough and she will whip her clients into shape in the nicest way possible.

 

Girls Going Global

Girls Going Global is a non-profit organization, but still definitely worth a shout out.  Martice Sutton founded this organization dedicated to empowering girls of color, ages 13-17, through travel and cultural exchange. Girls in the Philadelphia and Atlanta areas have enriching experiences with their first passports, speaker series with professionals in international affairs, and conferences at renowned institutions such as Princeton University and Spelman College. Girls Going Global has hosted programs in Canada, Costa Rica, and Belize. Their dedication to support future creators and leaders of the world is inspiring, which is also why they are one of my company’s Vitamin D Program Community Partners.

 

Luxe

Another great source for products to help me on my self-care journey. Founder Rasheedah Crawley struggled with skin care for years. Determined to put an end to the frustration, she created her own products with natural ingredients that worked with her body. She now offers these scrubs and moisturizers to the public via Etsy and her new webtique to help others find comfort in their own skin.

 

Lashology Studios

My friend Sherri McDonald always loved the beauty industry growing up, but didn’t attend cosmetology school until after graduating Spelman College and being in the workforce for almost ten years. When she realized her passion, she obtained her Master of Cosmetology license and now has her own beauty studio in Atlanta, Lashology Studios.  She is a true entrepreneur dedicated to her craft operating as janitor, marketing, receptionist, and lash artist all rolled into one. She offers customized eyelash extensions and lash extension training, with more services coming soon!

 

 

I recommend checking out any of these businesses! I always love learning about new entrepreneurial leaders in the community. What businesses do you support?