Black Entrepreneur Wins SBA Award for Mississippi

In a fantastic win for Black entrepreneurship, Ameka Coleman, the visionary founder of Strands of Faith, has been named the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Small Business Person of the Year for Mississippi. This incredible achievement highlights her dedication and the significant impact of her innovative hair care brand.

Representing Mississippi on a National Stage

This prestigious honor means Coleman will travel to Washington, D.C., on May 4th to represent Mississippi during the National Small Business Week. This event celebrates business leaders nationwide who are making a real difference through their impact, innovation, and contributions to their communities. It’s a huge recognition for both Coleman and the state she represents.

From Personal Journey to Thriving Brand

Coleman founded Strands of Faith with a powerful mission: to create top-tier hair care products that not only promote healthy hair but also foster confidence, self-care, belief, and faith. What started as a personal endeavor has blossomed into a successful, bootstrapped brand that now serves customers across the country. It’s a true testament to her vision and hard work.

Remarkably, Strands of Faith has grown into a multiple seven-figure business without any outside funding. This impressive growth is a direct result of Coleman’s unwavering commitment to discipline, consistency, and a focus on sustainable, long-term development. As a first-generation founder, she’s navigated the entrepreneurial landscape by learning on the fly and overcoming numerous challenges.

A Testament to Persistence and Faith

This recognition represents years of persistence and faith in the process. It’s an honor to represent Mississippi on a national stage and to highlight what’s possible when you take the leap of faith to follow your dreams. — Ameka Coleman

Beyond leading her flourishing business, Ameka Coleman is deeply committed to giving back. She actively supports aspiring and established entrepreneurs, generously sharing her insights, encouragement, and practical lessons learned throughout her journey. Her dedication to mentorship is as strong as her business acumen.

Celebrating Small Business Impact

National Small Business Week, observed from May 3rd to May 9th, is a crucial time dedicated to recognizing the vital role small businesses play in fueling economic growth and strengthening communities throughout the United States. Ameka Coleman’s story is a shining example of this impact.