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Category: Black Entrepreneurship and Culture

  • 48 Hours in Salt Lake City: A Workcation with Soul

    Swapping your daily commute for a café soundtrack and trading office chatter for neighborhood vibes sounds like a dream for any location-independent professional. But what if that adventure also came with a sense of grounding, a feeling of unexpected community? That’s precisely the experience I found in Salt Lake City (SLC).

    Beyond the Slopes: A New SLC Identity

    While SLC is famously known as a gateway to world-class ski resorts, a different narrative is unfolding. The city is cultivating a vibrant identity centered around wellness, entrepreneurship, and female-led innovation. New community-focused initiatives are actively challenging preconceived notions of what Salt Lake City is all about. If you’re looking for a quick reset that seamlessly blends work and rejuvenation, SLC offers a surprisingly soulful escape.

    The Maven District: A Hub of Intentional Living

    During my 48-hour workcation, the Maven District became my sanctuary. Nestled in Central Ninth, this unique neighborhood is intentionally designed around wellness, creativity, and community connection. It’s the brainchild of founder Tessa Arneson, who envisioned a centralized hub where local businesses could flourish together, rather than scattering clients across the city.

    In collaboration with marketing visionary Rocky Donati, Arneson transformed this idea into a thriving live-work-play district. Grounded in “tenacity, curiosity, and love,” the Maven District is now Salt Lake City’s largest community of women-owned small businesses, with over 80 percent of its brands led by women. This female-forward energy creates a palpable softness and a unique sense of soul.

    Curated Local Businesses: What’s On The Block?

    The Maven District champions everyday living by focusing exclusively on local businesses, eschewing national chains and sterile complexes. Here are just a few highlights that make this district special:

    • **Early Owl:** Perfect for morning energy with smoothies, French toast, and a welcoming atmosphere.
    • **Cosmica:** Offers modern Italian plates and cocktails in a chic setting.
    • **Maven Stay:** A staffless boutique hotel providing suite-style rooms for a comfortable stay.
    • **Maven Live:** Affordable apartments fostering genuine neighborhood continuity.
    • **Maven Create:** A warm, collaborative coworking and event space ideal for remote workers.
    • **Maven Strong:** A Pilates + wellness studio anchoring the district’s energetic vibe.
    • **Randy’s Records:** A beloved neighborhood institution serving the community since the 1970s.

    Meeting Arneson and Donati truly brought the district’s ethos into focus. The word ‘soul’ kept surfacing – in their approach to building the community and in how residents and visitors alike experience it. Even in just 48 hours, I felt a genuine connection to the neighborhood’s rhythm.

    Your 48-Hour Salt Lake City Workcation Itinerary

    Day 1: Arrival & Grounding

    • **Morning:** Start your day at **Early Owl** for delicious smoothies or their famous banana French toast. It’s the perfect light-filled spot to adjust to the mountain altitude.
    • **Midday:** Explore the district’s vibrant murals or join a class at **Maven Strong**. For lunch, try **Tandoori Taqueria** for their unique Mexican-Indian fusion tacos or the Tessa Bowl.
    • **Afternoon:** Settle in for a remote work session at **La Barba**, the district’s resident coffee shop, or grab a day pass at **Maven Create** for a cozy coworking experience.
    • **Evening:** Enjoy shareable plates like elk carpaccio or shrimp linguine at **Cosmica**. Cap off the night with a drink at **Policy Kings Brewery**, Utah’s first Black-owned brewery.

    Day 2: Movement & Exploration

    • **Morning:** Take a gentle sunrise hike on the **Bonneville Shoreline Trail** for stunning city views, or rent a bike from **Greenbike** and pedal through charming neighborhoods to **Sugar House Park**.
    • **Midday:** Return to **Maven Create** for work or enjoy a relaxed session from your suite at **Maven Stay**, fueled by coffee from **La Barba**.
    • **Afternoon:** Discover the Maven District’s unique retail gems, including **Acrely Farms** (CBD products), **Lovebound Library** (a romance-focused bookshop), and **Mineral and Matter** (jewelry). Creative types can book sessions at **Art Haus**, while wellness seekers have various treatment providers within the district.
    • **Evening:** Conclude your workcation with an exceptional dining experience at **Urban Hill**, known for its wood-fired meats and seasonal pairings, just a short distance from the district.

    The Unexpected Ease of Salt Lake City

    Salt Lake City truly surprised me. It’s rare to find a place that allows you to seamlessly transition between deep work focus and profound restoration. The Maven District, and indeed the city itself, isn’t built on exploitation or exclusivity; it’s founded on intention. At 4,300 feet, productivity finds its breath, and if you allow it, so can you.

    Are you inspired to plan your own workcation in Salt Lake City? What aspects of the Maven District appeal most to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • AFROTECH™ Conference: The Tech Executive Networking Hub

    Imagine a place where connecting with industry leaders feels not just possible, but effortless. That’s the experience at the AFROTECH™ Conference, a premier destination for executives in the technology sector. It’s more than just an event; it’s a launchpad for careers, a hub for innovation, and a vital space for professional growth.

    Recruitment and Connection: Attentive’s Experience

    Jamell Watson, director of office operations at Attentive, a leading SMS and email marketing platform, shared his insights from attending the AFROTECH™ Conference 2025. As a founding member of the company’s Black union employee resource group, Watson saw the conference as a prime opportunity for recruitment and learning. “We thought we would [be] boots on the ground and talk to students and people looking for jobs for recruitment purposes,” Watson told AFROTECH™.

    With custom shirts and the distinguished Executive badge, the Attentive team made their presence known. Watson emphasized that the badge signaled their purpose: “I’m not looking for a job. I’m here for a purpose.” Their primary goals were to recruit for sales and engineering roles and to provide learning opportunities for their Black union members.

    Breaking Down Barriers and Building Relationships

    Watson strategically planned their arrival for Monday, when sessions and activations were geared towards students. His personal mission was to connect with at least five attendees, aiming to show students that non-technical roles in tech are very much attainable. As a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, Watson understood the intimidation students can feel when approaching representatives from large corporations.

    “I wanted us to break that barrier down and approach the students, have a human connection with them, talk to them, put them at ease, and really show them that … we are a big company and a thriving company, and have a place here for you,” he explained. The positive feedback from students highlighted the success of this approach.

    The Power of the Executive Pass

    Beyond recruitment, the Attentive team leveraged the conference to expand their market knowledge. The Executive pass, in particular, offered exclusive access to sessions and activations. Watson highlighted an executive brunch co-sponsored by Airbnb and Twilio, and a panel featuring former BET CEO Debra Lee as personal highlights.

    • Higher level of access to exclusive sessions and speaking engagements.
    • Opportunities for executive-level networking and insights.
    • Demonstrates company investment in employee learning and development.
    • Facilitates easier identification and conversation with industry peers.

    “The Executive pass puts you in a different class… It gives you a higher level of access,” Watson noted. This elevated access allowed his team to engage with content not available to student or Premier pass holders, reinforcing Attentive’s commitment to their employees’ growth.

    Looking Ahead

    Watson found that attending with an Executive pass made it simpler to connect with peers from institutions like Howard University and Prairie View A&M University. “I was able to break that ice a little bit better,” he shared. Given the invaluable experience, Watson is already considering a return to the AFROTECH™ Conference, which is set to return to Houston from November 2-6, 2026. Early bird tickets for 2026 are now available!

    Are you a tech executive looking to connect and grow? Will you be attending the next AFROTECH™ Conference? Share your thoughts and plans in the comments below!

  • Tracee Ellis Ross: Beauty Brands Miss ‘Cultural Currency’

    Pattern Beauty founder Tracee Ellis Ross is shedding light on a critical issue within the beauty industry: why are so many brands, particularly those led by Black entrepreneurs, struggling to sustain themselves? Ross believes the core problem lies in how the industry values success, often overlooking a crucial element she calls ‘cultural currency.’

    The Fading Commitments to Inclusivity

    Following the social reckoning of 2020, there was a surge of support and investment in Black-led brands. However, many founders have noted that this commitment has waned, especially under the current administration, which seems to view diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives with skepticism. This shift has led to the closure of several Black-owned beauty brands, including Ami Colé, Beauty Bakerie, Ceylon, and Koils by Nature.

    Diarrha N’Diaye-Mbaye, founder of the clean-beauty brand Ami Colé, shared her experience in an op-ed, citing changing investor attitudes, rising tariffs, and brutal marketing costs as factors in her brand’s shutdown. She noted the stark contrast between the investor enthusiasm for inclusivity in 2020 and the more hesitant approach she encountered later. “The world feels upside down,” she wrote, lamenting an industry that preaches inclusivity but remains unforgiving.

    Beyond the Dollar Signs: Valuing Cultural Impact

    Tracee Ellis Ross, who founded Pattern Beauty by carefully selecting business partners rather than self-funding, discussed these challenges on the “Aspire with Emma Grede” podcast. She acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining a brand in an oversaturated market but stressed that the industry needs to do more to support these unique ventures.

    “I think we have to do better as an industry. I think there are systemic roadblocks, and I think it requires a broader approach to support in understanding how you take a unique value proposition and how you scale that,” Ross explained. She questioned how growth is measured – is it solely through expanded retail or new products, or does it account for the brand’s core value?

    The Unseen Value of Niche Brands

    Ross highlighted the concept of ‘cultural currency’ – the intangible value a brand brings that isn’t always reflected in immediate dollar amounts. “There is a cultural currency that is not accounted for in dollar numbers that we must, as an industry, do a better job of counting,” she stated. She used the example of an exclusive brand serving a specific customer base; while it might not generate the same revenue as a mass-market brand, it can attract new customers and create a ‘halo effect’ that benefits the business culturally and financially in ways not easily quantified.

    Ultimately, Ross argues that the industry needs a more nuanced understanding and a different approach to supporting brands that offer unique cultural value. This means looking beyond short-term financial gains and recognizing the long-term impact these brands have on consumers and the broader market.

    What are your thoughts on Tracee Ellis Ross’s perspective on ‘cultural currency’? Do you agree that beauty brands need to value this more? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • Tuskegee Grads Launch Taliaferro Union

    Tuskegee University graduates Alvin and Alarie Percival, along with David Banks, are bringing Booker T. Washington’s enduring vision to life through their clothing line, Taliaferro Union. This brand isn’t just about fashion; it’s a celebration of HBCU excellence, craftsmanship, and the deep roots they share with their alma mater and the city of Tuskegee.

    A Name Rooted in Strength

    The brand’s name, Taliaferro, is a direct tribute to Booker T. Washington’s middle name, which has Italian origins meaning ‘iron cutter’ or ‘blacksmith.’ This powerful symbol of strength and skill guides the founders, connecting their designs to Washington’s core teachings on labor, skill development, and self-determination.

    All three founders have profound connections to Tuskegee. David Banks was born on campus, and his family has a long history with the university, even sharing the Taliaferro name. The Percival twins’ parents are also Tuskegee alums, and they spent their childhoods immersed in campus life, reflecting the agricultural background Washington championed.

    Drawing Inspiration from the Archives

    Taliaferro Union’s collections are deeply inspired by Tuskegee’s archives. Their ‘Archive Revival Collection,’ for instance, breathes new life into century-old campus uniforms and athletic wear. Imagine collegiate cardigans, chenille-letter pullovers, and even the yellow tracksuits once worn by the Tuskegee swim team – all reimagined for today.

    David Banks emphasizes their local inspiration: “We literally just searched right under our feet. Tuskegee has such a rich visual archive and legacy…” A standout piece is the ‘Singing Windows Shirt,’ inspired by the stained glass in the Tuskegee University Chapel, which depicts the journey of the Israelites and the African American experience. This iconic detail, often overlooked, is beautifully translated onto their apparel.

    Capturing Tuskegee’s Spirit

    The brand aims to capture the unique culture and vibrant energy of Tuskegee, from the passionate undergrads in ‘The Shed’ to the infectious school spirit that rivals any other HBCU. Alvin Percival believes the small-town setting fosters a unique camaraderie and school pride.

    Giving Back and Prioritizing Quality

    Beyond storytelling, Taliaferro Union is committed to making an impact. A portion of every sale is donated back to Tuskegee University, reinforcing their mission to support the institution that shaped them. Alarie Percival also highlights the brand’s focus on quality, aiming to create lasting pieces that stand in contrast to the fast fashion prevalent today.

    They want to fill a market gap for well-made collegiate apparel that truly resonates with students and alumni. Their goal is to create future heirlooms – quality-driven items that leave a lasting impression and reflect the pride they have in their T.U. heritage.

    A Legacy of Storytelling

    Ultimately, Taliaferro Union serves as a bridge between Tuskegee’s past and present. It’s about preserving and sharing their story from their own perspective, demonstrating that with dedication, anything is possible. Their clothing speaks volumes, weaving together the narrative of Tuskegee University and the founders’ journey.

    What do you admire most about Tuskegee University’s history or spirit? Have you checked out Taliaferro Union’s collections? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Mocktail Brand MEDASE: Friendship & Breast Cancer

    Friendships are built on shared moments, laughter, and sometimes, navigating life’s toughest challenges together. For Monica Cornitcher and Inga Dyer, their decades-long bond was tested and ultimately inspired the creation of MEDASE, a premium zero-proof cocktail brand.

    A Friendship Tested by Adversity

    Their journey took a profound turn when Inga Dyer was diagnosed with breast cancer, facing a second, aggressive battle during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022. Monica Cornitcher recalls their constant connection through Zoom, turning virtual hangouts into a lifeline filled with meals, walks, and, crucially, shared sips.

    During this challenging time, the friends craved the sophisticated taste of cocktails but without the alcohol. They found the existing non-alcoholic options lacking, unable to replicate the flavors they loved, like a classic margarita or Moscow mule. This shared frustration sparked an idea.

    MEDASE: Filling a Market Gap

    Driven by their desire for delicious, alcohol-free alternatives, Monica and Inga decided to create their own. The result is MEDASE, a brand that offers low-calorie, gluten-free, caffeine-free, and vegan mocktails. Before her passing in 2024, Inga had the chance to taste their initial creations.

    Initially launching with two popular flavors, margarita and Moscow mule, MEDASE has since expanded its offerings to six. You can now also enjoy their versions of an old-fashioned, rum punch, lemon drop, and mojito. What makes MEDASE even more special is the option for hemp-infused versions.

    The Power of CBD

    Recognizing the potential benefits of CBD, especially for those managing pain or seeking relaxation, MEDASE incorporates hemp extract into select drinks. “If you know anything about cancer or anything where anyone’s suffering from pain, CBD becomes their favorite friend,” Cornitcher explains. The goal is to help manage discomfort and promote a sense of calm, all without altering the delicious taste.

    A Name with Deep Meaning

    The name MEDASE itself carries significant emotional weight. Derived from the Akan language in Ghana, it means ‘thank you.’ This word perfectly encapsulates the gratitude Cornitcher felt for Dyer’s unwavering support. “At the end of every call, it was always, ‘Thank you for listening. Thank you for not judging me. Thank you for just sitting quiet with me sometimes.’”

    Discovering the word MEDASE felt like finding a perfect expression for their bond – a heartfelt ‘thank you’ and a new way to ‘cheers’ to their friendship. This venture is more than just a business; it’s a tribute to a cherished friendship and a way to honor Inga’s memory.

    Advice for Supporting Loved Ones

    During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cornitcher shares invaluable advice for anyone supporting a loved one through cancer: “Be a listener. Don’t try to provide advice because sometimes they just need an ear to just allow them to get everything off their chest.” Her wisdom is hard-won, having also lost both parents to leukemia and her brother to prostate cancer.

    When asked what she would say to Inga now, Cornitcher’s response is heartfelt: “I’m going to continue MEDASE in her honor and work as hard as I can to make it become the company we both dreamed of. And that I love her.”

    Have you tried MEDASE or other premium mocktails? What are your go-to non-alcoholic drinks? Share your favorites in the comments below!