There is something so empowering about seeing young Black women thrive, create, and build a brand. Often times, I find as a society we focus on and are inspired by the big name people, the celebrities, etc when there are inspiring people all around you. In the spirit of supporting small businesses, we also need to support small creatives such as blogs, Youtube channels and podcasts.
I noticed that there are so many of my friends and women I look up to that are doing amazing things. Whether it is starting their own business, being leaders at our University and in the community, creating their own platforms to discuss lifestyle, medicine, law, and more, and being expressive with their fashion and makeup.
I. am. so. damn. inspired.
One night, I just started sharing and tagging all their platforms of some of my close friends on my IG story and I knew in that moment that I needed to make a blog post! I wanted to share some of these amazing women with you all today. I reached out and asked them to share about themselves, their platforms, and any advice that they had for a fellow young Black women wanting to start a brand.
Today I am featuring 15 amazing women. Here is what they had to say!
MXM Swim by Mya Robinson
Tell me about yourself Mya!
I was born in Washington, DC and raised in Maryland the rest of my life. I recently graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in public health. Towards the end of college I began working in nightlife which was extremely fun, and I was able to save up enough money to eventually pursue my business dreams. It's funny because despite being published, performing scientific research, and dedicating my whole life to science and the public good, I decided to take my many talents into swimwear. Currently, I work a full time job while also running my swimwear line which can get pretty hectic. However, I hope one day I can run my swimwear line full time!
How would you describe MXM Swim?
MXM Swim is a brand that is inclusive, inclusive, inclusive. I want anyone to be able to afford my swim suits, wear them confidently, and feel sexy in them no matter what their body type is. MXM Swim is fun, young, and feminine in all aspects. The suits can be worn anywhere from the beach, the pool, or even tanning. Personally, I like small sexy pieces that show off my body, and wanted other girls to have easy access to the same styles I like as well. I love being a business owners that is also a POC, because I am able to provide a greater level of trust within my customers and it's important that black women be represented more on the fashion industry, specifically swimwear.
Why did you start your business?
I was always fascinated in beach living, the water, and the "surfer" lifestyle. When I was younger, I used to always watch Alana Blanchard on Youtube and wanted to be a rip curl model just like her. I love the water. I was on the national swim team when I was 5-10 years old swimming for the MVP Dolphins. The older I got my fascination for swimwear increased and in college I wanted to start my own swim brand. I didn't know where to start, so I began hand sewing bikini tops in my dorm room that would take 16 hours to complete. I then leveled up to a sewing machine where I had to self teach myself to sew which took several months to do. After corona hit, I began to invest more of my time into my swim wear line and found a manufacturer that could produce the kind of swim suits that I wanted to make. I want MXM to remain affordable, accessible, and for all body types.
Check out MXM Swim and shop here now
How can people contact and follow you?
You can contact me on any platform really, I'm always available to answer questions. My Instagram page is @mxm_swim and my business email is swimxm@aol.com. I prefer Instagram as the primary form of contact.
Mya's swimsuits look so bomb! I mean marketing, design, product, everything on point! She had such a successful launch with super unique and beautiful swimwear. I was so excited to be able to feature her on the blog, thanks Mya and be sure to check it out and place your order!
Shaaa’s World by Shaniqua Fleming
My name is Shaniqua Fleming and I’m 21 years old. I grew up on an island called Sint Maarten. 3 years ago I moved to the Netherlands to further my education. I’m currently studying social work and I’ve specialized in kids with autism. In July 2019 I started my YouTube channel to promote self love and positivity.
Shaaa's world is all about spreading positivity
Why did you start your Youtube Channel?
I try to spread positivity on the media and help/motivate people to fall in love with themselves!
When I was younger I was super insecure because of the imagine social media shows us. I always saw these girls with perfect hair, perfect skin, perfect body and that use to make me look down on myself. As I grow older I’ve realized that this is who I am, and this is who I’ll always be. I started this YouTube channel to help others overcome things like this and fall in love with themselves because self love, is the best love.
Click the image above to head over to her channel where she uploads every Tuesday!
Shaniqua is my cousin and I am so proud of her! I love how she is creating such an inspirational and positive platform. She is a person who you always smile when you are around her and this energy radiates in her videos.
FitsxJo by Joelle Everett
My name is Joelle Everett. I am 20 years old. I am from Crofton, MD, but was raised in the gorgeous Prince Georges County. I am an aspiring UX/UI Designer and a senior Information Science major at the University of Maryland, College Park. My hobbies include fashion, visual arts, dance listening to music, and tie dye! Fun fact: I also have my second degree black belt in Tang So Do!
How would you describe your instagram?
The purpose of my instagram, @fitsxjo, is to showcase different outfits I put together, highlight Black women in the fashion industry, share fashion inspiration, and share tips to help people create their own style as well as explore and expand their wardrobe.
Why did you start your IG page?
I started my platform to create a world of my own where fashion is at the center and I could share with others my ideas and creativity as well as give people a place to find inspiration and encouragement to try new things with their own style.
My favorite quote has always been "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind" -Dr. Seuse
If you need to contact Joelle, you can email her at everettjoelle26@gmail.com. I love that she gave my the above quote to be included because I think it is so true and that is the vibe you get from FitsxJo - being who you are. Her sense of style is just killer and so unique!
The Banene Brand & The Caribbean Woman Podcast by Dena Pouchie
About Dena
Dena Pouchie is a 24 year old hospitality enthusiast from Honduras. She’s currently in her last year of her bachelor’s in the field of International Hotel Management at NHL Stenden University. She did her minors in Event Management and was a member and board member of two student associations, Toastmasters and Universities Fighting World Hunger NL during her studies. A few words that describes her are adaptable, open-minded, cheerful, dependable, enthusiastic, flexible, hardworking and insightful. Dena enjoys community service, during her lifetime she was part of The Interact Club and Teen Times in Sint Maarten. She served as a member, community director, vice president and president of The Interact Club, secretary and marketing manager of Universities Fighting World Hunger NL and a writer at Teen Times. She also did a fundraiser called ‘Hands for Sint Maarten” at NHL Stenden to help those that suffered during Hurricane Irma in 2017, she raised over 4000€ (monetary and food goods). Dena is interested in human resources, people management, organizational change, training & development, hospitality (hotel guest service) and project management.
How would you describe your brand and podcast?
At The Banene Brand, Dena is currently the managing director; a position in which she oversees the company's business operations, liaise with various stakeholders, drive strategic company growth, and is responsible for the overall performance of the business. This platform is an online platform for young professionals to build and create their legacies through personal and career development. The Banene Brand shares content on money management, legacy building, travel tips and self-care.
The Caribbean Woman Podcast is a podcast for ambitious women in the Caribbean. It focuses on four pillars: faith, entrepreneurship, womanhood and Caribbean lifestyle. It is a hybrid podcast with solo and interview episodes. The Caribbean Woman Podcast is hosted by Dena Pouchie.
Why did you start?
To help young professional be their best selves, especially in the Caribbean region. There are currently not many resources for us, and I want to assist in the best way possible.
People can contact me at hello@thebanenebrand.com and follow me at @thebanenebrand on all platforms and @thecaribbeanwomanpodcast on instagram/facebook and @tcwpodcast on twitter.
I love this brand that Dena is creating! I think it so important to uplift young people to create their legacies. I am so excited for the new podcast, us Caribbean women are gems and I know the podcast is going to be amazing. Thank you Dena for allowing me to feature her and be sure to check out her pages!
Angeline Luxe by Angeline Ekwonye
Meet Angeline
I’m a 20 year old 1st generation Nigerian-American. I am a senior at the University of Maryland studying Public Health Science and aspiring to be a Physician Assistant.
How would you describe your channel and why did you start it?
My YouTube Channel focuses on beauty and lifestyle which includes: Hair, Skincare, Makeup, Vlogs, DIYs, and so much more! I use my platform as a welcoming community where we can all grow and learn together. My goal on my channel is to share my experiences in different aspects of my life. And I hope that what I share can help people learn things I wish I knew earlier, both physically and mentally.
I wanted an outlet for my own creative expression and also to help other people on their various journeys, be it skincare, hair, self confidence, and so on.
To contact Angeline you can message her on on Instagram: @AngelineLuxe and leave a comment on her Youtube videos: Angeline Luxe. Click the image of her channel for the link!
What I love about Angeline's channel is how natural she is on camera and how open she is about her experiences with her Youtube audience. Be sure to subscribe!
SohLive: Wellness is Essential by Kendra Soh
About Kendra
I was raised in Montréal, Qc and grew up in NJ! I currently attend UMD as a neurobiology premed student! I love all things health & wellness and my favorite ways to pass time include watching Netflix or YouTube, being in nature, reading, and listening to music (Afrobeats or Gospel)!
How would you describe your brand?
SohLive is meant to empower people who may struggle with aspects of their wellness including but not limited to emotional And mental health, social health, and spiritual health! I hope to be able to make people realize that they are not alone in navigating their own journeys through life!
Why did you start it?
I'm a premed student who’s had a tough journey that has motivated me to create a brand & business that will encourage others to tend to their wellbeing through speaking on a some of my own experiences!
Follow me on Instagram @sohlive_ and on Facebook @sohlive! Follow me on Spotify (SohLive: Wellness is Essential) where I currently upload every other Monday!
If you ever need a pick me up, go and listen to the SohLive podcast. Kendra is my close friend and roommate and wow I am just so proud of her and what she stands for. What I appreciate about Kendra's platform is how genuine and vulnerable she is with her content, whether it is talking about imposter syndrome or her experiences, she really connects with her listeners and leaves an uplifting message.
Cake Pops by Abs - Abena Osei
My name is Abena Osei, and I'm a rising senior biology major at the University of Maryland! I'm a Christian, and I lead a Bible study on campus (@rosa_umd on IG) while being a Resident Assistant and research assistant as well.
My business mantra is "making cake pops and other sweet treats," with the hope that as my customers enjoy my desserts, they taste and see that God is good (Psalms 34:8).
Why did you start your business and how can people follow and place their orders?
My business started for fun, really! As I would make cake pops for friends and family members, they all encouraged me to sell my treats and eventually, I officially began in 2018. It's truly a great hobby of mine, and I love to use my creative ability in the form of baking.
Please follow me on Instagram (@cakepopsbyabs), and feel free to DM or email me (cakepopsbyabs@gmail.com) for an inquiry! I hope to hear from you.
Let me tell you guys, Abena is a talented baker and a wonderful soul. I've known her since freshmen year of college and I am so excited to be able to support her business. Be sure to place an order for your next celebration!
Lo Nicole
Meet Lo Nicole
I am a recent college graduate who aspires to attend medical school and become a physician. To avoid limiting myself and my many passions, I consider my content theme to be lifestyle. I enjoy all things fashion, beauty, hair, food, pre-med, and pup related!
Tell me about your channel!
My YouTube channel consists mostly of vlogs of various daily activities or special life events. I also film videos related to fashion, beauty, and my pre-med journey. I try to be as real and candid as possible, often joking that the theme of my channel is struggle. There's always something imperfect, yet hilarious happening when I film!
Why did you start the channel?
I started my platform as a way to document my life. I enjoy sharing my experiences with others as a way to reflect on what I’ve done as well as to be a learning experience for others. It’s such an amazing feeling to be able to rewatch one of my videos and feel like I am completely reliving the moment!
Check out the channel, follow her, and contact her here:
YouTube Channel- Lo Nicole | Instagram- lo_nicole24 | Email (for business inquiries)- lonicole19@gmail.com
I think she really gave the perfect description of her channel, I really love her video because they are so real and so funny. I just love tuning in and seeing what Lo Nicole is up to or her new haul. Be sure to check out the channel!
Stephanie x Co. by Stephanie Olebara
Hi! My name is Stephanie Olebara, I’m 20 years-old and I am a student and content creator from Prince George’s County, Maryland. I attend the University of Maryland College Park as a Behavioral and Community Health major. Also, I am a Masters of Public Health (MPH) Candidate through an accelerated BS/MPH program. In addition to being a student, I create beauty and lifestyle content across various social media platforms including YouTube (9.3k subscribers), Instagram,(1.5k followers) and TikTok (700+ followers). When I’m not studying or recording videos, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones, trying new restaurants, and traveling. A fun fact about me is that I know four languages! (English, French, Igbo, and Russian)
How would you describe your channel?
I would describe my content as informative, inspiring, and fun. My content ranges from makeup tutorials, college vlogs, travel diaries, and even discussing more serious topics such as Sexual Assault. I like to say that I create something for everyone. If you’re learning how to apply makeup, if you’re a rising college student and want to know what a dorm room looks like, if you’re struggling with your natural hair, or if you simply just want some advice, there’s a video on my channel for you!
I started my Youtube channel in 2013 but since I was being bullied at school for making videos I would only post sparingly and eventually stopped creating content. In 2017, once I got to college I decided to give Youtube another chance and actually take content creating seriously. I then expanded to creating content on Instagram as well and most recently TikTok.
How can people follow and contact you?
People can contact me via email: stephxco@gmail.com and can follow me on Youtube: Stephanie x Co. Instagram: @stephaniexco TikTok: @stephanieexco Twitter: @stephaniexco
Stephanie's makeup skills are just amazing and I love her channel. I truly looked at her channel for inspiration when I have been working to post more on mine and I am so excited to see her continue to grow as a content creator. Y'all better go follow on all platforms!
Fostering Empathy by Kayla Foster
Hi! My name is Kayla Foster (she/her) and I am from Prince George's County, MD. I am a 21 year old Afro-Caribbean American woman. I attend the University of Maryland-College Park where I major in public health science, minor in sustainability studies, and am on the pre-medical track. I love reading, hanging out with friends and family, being out in nature, exercising, and traveling!
Tell me about Fostering Empathy!
Fostering Empathy is all about enhancing human connection through the sharing of perspectives and experiences! It is a call to action and a reminder to myself and to everyone whose path my content crosses to truly work to see and know each other. Empathy is a skill that we all can work on and become better at, and my hope is that Fostering Empathy as a whole can be the spark that encourages people to work on developing their own empathy.
Fostering Empathy consists primarily of a podcast and bookclub. The podcast is interview based and gives my guests an opportunity to share their stories and perspectives in a frank and vulnerable manner by way of a discussion. In turn, listeners get to learn about the experiences of others, which is one of the best ways to increase empathy. The book club has a similar purpose in that it allows people to immerse themselves in a reality held within a book, be it fictional or otherwise, which is different than their own reality. Overall, the book club provides an opportunity to learn about unique perspectives and discuss books, salient themes, and connections to current events with peers!
Why did you start?
I started Fostering Empathy after coming to the conclusion that so many of the issues I see and want to address in the world could begin to be impacted if only we all had a bit more empathy and cared about each others unique humanity more. This not to say that if the world becomes more empathetic all of the “-isms” will be solved, but instead it is a call to start with a desire to connect with and understand individual perspectives so that much needed humanity can be returned to our discussions on current events and issues. To do this, I wanted to create a platform that made it accessible to learn about other people and stories that are not our own, to walk in someone else's shoes.
Check out the website www.fosteringempathy.org to find a centralized source with everything pertaining to Fostering Empathy! The Fostering Empathy podcast is available on all major listening platforms (Apple Spotify, Stitcher, etc.). I am also on instagram (@fosteringempathy) and twitter(@foster_empathy) so please feel free to connect with me there! Right now the upload schedule is once a month for podcast, but I expect to start churning out episodes on a weekly or biweekly basis soon. Also, the book club meets one a month to discuss the book we've read!
When Kayla launched Fostering Empathy I was just in awe and so inspired by the mission and the platform. I think often times we see problems in society and think that we are too small to fix them, when in fact we can step by step by the ways we can impact others. I really hope you all will check out all the platforms Kayla listed above!
The Signature Touch by Toniesha Johnstone
Meet Toniesha
I am a 24 year old glamtrepreneur. I grew up in West Orange, NJ and I went to the University of Maryland for my bachelors in International Business. From there I started my first corporate job and after 80 days I was fired with no explanation and no money! I knew at that time I wanted to create a business not only for myself and security but to learn how to build a brand and business in order to create something bigger than me in the future. I am now the owner of The Signature Touch Boutique, a growing luxury handbag company who will one day compete with the biggest household name brands.
We provide handbags and accessories guaranteed to add that signature touch to any outfit. Our goal is to provide the EXTRA bougie, fashionista and stylists a place to shop and find unique items.
Why did you start the business?
I started this business because I knew I spent $160k on a business degree and knew if I wasn’t going to use it during my 9-5 I would DEFINITELY use it for personal growth. From there I tried two different businesses and eventually realized I’m the girl who is ALWAYS extra, ALWAYS doing the most , ALWAYS overdressed and AWAYS accessories so I wanted to be the plug! I want to be the company you turn to to find that wooooow piece and I am. Eventually I plan to grow my business enough to know how to help other minority woman create and grow strong successful business and and brands in my own creator house.
You can follow us on Instagram @thesignaturetouch and check out our website www.signaturetouch.co. Feel free to dm all your questions and inquires and tag #SignatureBae to be featured on our account!
I met Toniesha through the Caribbean Student Association at UMD and she is right when she says she has always been that girl when it comes to dressing and accessories. What I love about the business is how unique the products are and how everything she brings out is so on point with the style and brand of the boutique. Be sure to follow the instagram to be the first to know when new products are released.
Amina Symone Photography
Hey hey! I'm a 21 year old photographer and (recently) podcaster. From Connecticut, I came to Maryland for the journalism program but also because of the lively culture in the DMV. I love all things photography and my favorite kind is documentary photography.
How do you describe your brand?
As a young Black woman, my brand is dedicated to capturing my clients in their most powerful moments. I want my clients to feel comfortable coming to me with whatever their ideas may be with the confidence that not only will I help them execute it, but capture that moment they're having in the best and most authentic way possible. My podcast, "This is For Us...By Us" I am dedicated to continuing that dedication to others by highlighting the experiences of Black women entrepreneurs and digital content creators.
Why did you start?
Honestly...I started doing photography because I couldn't paint or draw. I liked art, but I wasn't great at it. I started off taking photos of my best friend's designs and outfits she put together. From there, the pride I had in my Blackness pointed me toward documentary photography and an overall emphasis on creating pieces centered around Blackness in America. I curated my own gallery in 2017 called "We Matter: Looking Inside Ourselves". I continued on to document Black life and events around campus and eventually even working on a project last summer that got me published in the Associated Press, NPR, and The Washington Post.
Y'all can follow my work on Instagram (@aminasymone.jpg). You'll see my work as well as updates for the podcast! The show is available on all platforms, especially Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Check it out by searching "This is For Us...By Us" or going here: https://anchor.fm/amina-symone.
I had the pleasure of being photographed by Amina for our CRD photoshoot....and when I tell you am still in love with those photos every time I look at them! Don't you worry a StylebyKye x Amina Symone Photography collaboration is coming soon!! I also love the podcast and so proud of her journalism work! Be sure to tune in and book her for your photo needs!
Legi-slay-te by Alaysia Johnson
My name is Alaysia Johnson, I'm 21 year-old from Maryland. I am currently a senior at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA where I double major in Political Communication and African & African American studies. I am currently in the process of applying to law school.
Legi-slay-te is both a blog and a podcast that assesses the climate of the world. It combines my two favorite topics, legislature (because I love politics) and slaying. I talk about law, politics, life, and pop culture. My content is mainly for Black women but is open to anyone who wants help navigating politics or just looking for some tea.
Why did you start?
I started Legi-slay-te to organize and solidify my thoughts and views of the world around me. The intersectionality of my identity as a Black woman has largely shaped the lense of which I view the world. So, I wanted to start a platform to share how I'm feeling in a space that has largely been dominated by white people. On my platform, I talk about key issues and things Black women experience, I've done blogs about the Crown act or SCOTUS decisions, and I keep giving my opinion because it matters. I love being able to share what I think and feel because attending a PWI, it's easy for people to underestimate Black people, especially Black women, but we are the trend, WE are important and I deserve to be heard. This platform gives me space to just be. I can be whatever and whoever I want and say whatever I want without being mansplained or experiencing misogynoir.
My platform is especially great for anyone who is looking to pursue law school or politics because in the next coming months I'll be giving insight on my legal journey.
Follow me personally @ajoh__(insta) alaysia_jenal (twitter) follow my platform: @legislayte (on all platforms) to follow my blog and podcast
I've been close friends with Alaysia since high school and this girl is meant to be a lawyer! I could really write a whole paragraph on how proud and inspired I am of her, she has really taught me the importance of speaking up for what you believe in. Be sure to check out her platform and follow her journey to being an attorney at law!
mimipenka by Michelle Penka
Meet Michelle
I'm 22 years old, Cameroonian-American, and a recent Psychology graduate from the University of Maryland! I started doing my own makeup during my sophomore year of college (I used to dabble in lipstick during my later years in high school). I am really passionate about how race intersects many different industries, including the beauty industry.
Mission: To show creative, everyday looks and encourage newcomers to makeup
Content: I'm a makeup enthusiast who makes makeup looks that are heavily influenced by artists/music or random inspiration. I've recreated looks inspired by Saweetie, Summer Walker, Chloe and Halle, etc and I've been honored enough to have some of these looks acknowledged by some of these artists! I mainly drop pictures and moving towards regularly dropping tutorial videos on my media platforms.
Why did you start?
I started my brand/platform because I have fun doing my makeup and I often draw inspiration for my makeup looks from music. I also wanted to show creative makeup looks that could still be worn on a regular day.
You can follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube: @mimipenka
Be sure to clock in for the weekly Instagram lives on Sundays around 2-3 pm and follow to see uploads at least twice a week!
Honestly Michelle's makeup...I mean you can see for yourself. The girl slays every look and I just love the creativity and the album inspired looks! I am always excited to see what her next makeup look will be!
Dose of Tos by Tosan Eweka
Meet Tosan
I'm a recent graduate of the University of Maryland who is preparing to apply to PA school. I'm passionate about health policy and advocacy, as well as many non-medical things like beauty and shopping.
How do you describe Dose of Tos?
Dose of Tos is a blog I started to document my journey to PA school. I hope to use my platform to share my unique experiences and advice with other pre-PA students, while also sharing other glimpses of my life. I hope to be a relatable resource for pre-PA's, promote diversity in the PA profession, and advocate for PA's and the importance of their role in healthcare. In addition to my blog posts, I share tips and advice on instagram and add another voice to the PA instagram community.
I started my blog because I personally learned a lot about the PA profession and fell in love with the career path after engaging with PA students and PA-Cs on social media. I wanted to start my own blog to educate and inspire other prospective PA's by documenting my journey through my own personal lens. I don't consider myself the perfect student and have so many interests outside of the career path I've chosen so I hope that I can use my platform to inspire people like me as I grow and learn throughout this process. I also hope to use my platform to advocate for the PA profession in my own small corner of the internet.
You can read my blog at doseoftos.com or find me on Instagram or Tik Tok at @doseoftos
First of all - I love the name and I love the blog. I really love the mission of sharing her journey and educating and inspiring others. I know I have already learned a lot about the PA profession through her blog. Be sure to check it out!
StylebyKye by Kyeisha Laurence
Soo I guess it's my turn? Just wanted to share a little bit about my brand as well for any new viewers here! My name is Kyeisha and I am from Saint Martin in the Caribbean. I am twenty years old and a rising senior at the University of Maryland, College Park. I am studying Cellular Biology and Genetics with a French minor on the pre-medical track and here on my blog you can follow me on my college journey and my mission to medicine.
StylebyKye is a college, fashion, and lifestyle brand. I started it back in 2015 (5 year anniversary is coming up!!). I started it just for fun and for a place to post my outfits, now it has blossomed into a brand that is really centered about not only my journey but inspiring and motivating others on their journey as well.
I am in awe of the women and their platforms that I have shared here today. As far as my advice to anyone wanted to start a brand, I fully agree with what my fellow ladies have had to say. It is a bold step to put yourself out there and share your craft whether via Youtube, taking a risk by starting your own business, or sharing you stories on your podcast or your blog.
But, it is so worth it! Just be sure you are doing it for YOU!
I hope that this blog has inspired you to start and to support Black women. Support Black businesses. Support Black creatives. Support Black professionals. Support Black students. Support Black women.
Thank you to all the women who allowed me to feature them today! I would love to do a part 2 and use my platform to highlight more brands and businesses. It is so important to support each other and remember that it is free.99 to simply share and subscribe to help everyone grow.
Thank you for reading!
xoxo,
Kye