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Category: Black Excellence and Entrepreneurship

  • Black Woman Engineer Invents Automated Double Dutch Machine

    Remember the distinct sound of beaded ropes slapping against pavement, the rhythmic chants, and the thrill of jumping into the middle of a Double Dutch game? For many Black girls, Double Dutch was more than just a game; it was a cultural cornerstone, fostering rhythm, coordination, community, and creativity. Now, a Black woman engineer is ensuring this cherished tradition continues to evolve with a groundbreaking invention.

    From Childhood Dream to Automated Reality

    Dr. Tahira Reid Smith, a mechanical engineering professor at Penn State, has unveiled what is believed to be the world’s first automated Double Dutch machine. Dubbed ‘Jump Dreams,’ this innovative device was recently showcased during Philly Girls Jump’s Double Dutch Day celebration in Philadelphia. The invention is the culmination of a decades-long dream, tracing back to Reid Smith’s own childhood.

    Growing up in the Bronx as an only child, Reid Smith harbored a vivid imagination and a passion for jumping rope. At just 8 years old, she sketched an idea for a machine that could keep the ropes turning continuously, allowing anyone to jump without needing human rope-turners. This childhood vision has now transformed into a remarkable reality.

    Blending Culture, Nostalgia, and STEM

    Dr. Reid Smith emphasizes the cultural significance of Double Dutch, stating, ‘Jumping double Dutch is like being a part of a club. It’s culture. It’s a part of our history. It’s part of our heritage.’ This sentiment resonates deeply with generations of Black women who grew up with Double Dutch as a central part of their social and recreational lives, particularly in urban communities where it evolved into both a pastime and a competitive sport.

    The ‘Jump Dreams’ machine ingeniously merges this cultural nostalgia with cutting-edge engineering. The app-controlled prototype features mechanized arms that swing the ropes, allowing participants to jump in the center. Attendees at the Philly event, ranging from children to adults, eagerly lined up to experience the machine firsthand, with some traveling from as far as Atlanta.

    Future Visions and Community Impact

    While participants noted that jumping with the automated system required an adjustment period compared to human turners, the potential was widely recognized. Dr. Reid Smith acknowledges that the current prototype is a step in a larger development process. Future versions are planned to better accommodate beginners and jumpers with varying skill levels.

    Through her company, Jump Dreams Inc., Reid Smith aims to officially launch an updated design in 2027. Her long-term vision extends beyond mere nostalgia; she hopes the machine will be integrated into schools, youth programs, and recreation centers. This could introduce a new generation to a cherished tradition, reinforcing its place in Black communities for decades to come.

    Ultimately, Dr. Reid Smith’s invention is a powerful symbol of Black innovation. It demonstrates that groundbreaking ideas can emerge from anywhere, even from the childhood dreams of a young girl in the Bronx imagining a way to keep the ropes turning forever. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and cultural preservation.

    What do you think of Dr. Tahira Reid Smith’s ‘Jump Dreams’ machine? Does it capture the spirit of Double Dutch for you? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!

  • Joy Frazier’s Luxury Handbags for Women Finding Their Way

    Imagine walking into a room and commanding attention, not with words, but with a powerful statement piece that speaks volumes before you even utter a syllable. This is the vision behind Keis to Joi, the luxury handbag line founded by Joy Frazier. After years navigating corporate boardrooms as a financial director, often as the sole Black woman present, Frazier realized the profound impact of perception and sought to create accessories that empowered women to express themselves on their own terms.

    From Boardrooms to Handbag Design

    Frazier’s journey into entrepreneurship was inspired by her experiences in environments where she felt her voice was often judged before it was heard. She observed how societal expectations could lead to the ‘angry Black woman’ stereotype. Frazier wanted to offer an alternative: a way for women to project confidence, wisdom, and self-assuredness through their style. “I feel with the bags, it’s like you step in the room and you speak volumes without saying anything,” she told theGrio.

    This philosophy is woven into the very fabric of Keis to Joi. The brand debuted with three distinct handbag silhouettes and 27 colorways, each designed in collaboration with Jean Rousseau Paris and lead designer Alejandro Guillen. Frazier aimed to create more than just beautiful accessories; she wanted to craft pieces that resonate with wearers, allowing them to feel a connection to the story and the message behind the brand.

    The ‘Keyhole’ Philosophy: Chapters of a Journey

    The name ‘Keis to Joi’ itself is a nod to Frazier’s first name and embodies a deeper philosophy. The keyhole, a recurring motif in the hardware, symbolizes the act of stepping into oneself with courage, wisdom, and love. Each of the three handbag designs represents a different stage in a woman’s journey: from visionary ambition to the wisdom gained through experience, and finally, to the love and connection that sustains her.

    Frazier likens this concept to Dorothy’s journey in ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ where she encounters characters seeking courage, heart, and wisdom. Frazier believes these qualities are inherent within us all. “I believe my bag line is not something that we just carry. Luxury is what we just carry. It’s luxury — what’s inside of us,” she explained. The handbags are designed to complement the inner strength and self-discovery that women carry with them.

    A Legacy of Giving Back: The MIM Foundation

    Frazier’s commitment to empowerment extends beyond her fashion line through her decade-long involvement with nonprofit work. Inspired by her late mother, Mihaela Isadora Miller, a nurse who opened her home to single mothers and their children in London, Frazier founded the MIM Foundation in 2015. The foundation provides life skills programming, health resources, and essential supplies for mothers in need.

    Growing up witnessing her mother’s quiet acts of kindness profoundly shaped Frazier’s desire to give back. The MIM Foundation has created a supportive community where mothers who have received help often return as volunteers, perpetuating the cycle of support. Frazier cherishes this community, noting, “They check on me… and seeing if I’m okay. And that’s what I love.” She sees this as building a ‘circle’ rather than just a service, emphasizing community over mere followership.

    A Message to Aspiring Mothers and Dreamers

    As Mother’s Day approaches, Frazier offers a powerful message to mothers who may be hesitant to pursue their dreams: Stop waiting. Identify your fears and obstacles, and find ways to overcome them. “The big F-E-A-R kicks in,” she acknowledged. “We don’t feel we can, or we’re told we can’t do it.”

    For those mothers who are ready to pursue their aspirations, Frazier encourages them to dream big. “The sky’s the limit. Just tell me what your block is. How can we get you to that space?” she urged. Joy Frazier, embodying the spirit of the women she designs for, continues to build her legacy as a financial director, nonprofit founder, luxury bag designer, daughter, and community pillar, proving that finding your way is a continuous, empowering journey.

    What does ‘luxury’ mean to you? Does Joy Frazier’s philosophy behind Keis to Joi resonate with your own journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Oprah Surprises Morehouse Scholars At Graduation Dinner

    Talk about a surprise guest! Oprah Winfrey, known globally as a media mogul, made a heartwarming appearance at Morehouse College to celebrate the soon-to-be graduates of her Endowed Scholars Program. These students, who affectionately call her ‘Auntie O,’ were treated to an unforgettable pre-graduation dinner on April 24th, where Oprah herself showed up to honor their hard work and success.

    Auntie O’s ‘Safest Investment’

    Oprah shared a video of the special visit, playfully joking that she was there to ‘check on those grades.’ More importantly, she expressed her deep pride in the scholars, stating, ‘Each one of the students—from the very first class in 1989 to today—are the best investment I or anyone could make.’ For Oprah, an alumna of Tennessee State University, supporting the education of Morehouse men is more than just philanthropy; it’s a deeply personal commitment.

    She revealed that her scholarship program, initially funded from a ‘risk bucket’ of her early earnings, has become the ‘safest investment’ of her life. She sees these students as being in her ‘savings bucket,’ representing a secure bet on their dreams and the aspirations of their ancestors.

    Impact and Gratitude

    The scholars themselves shared moving speeches about how the program empowered their academic journeys. For many, Oprah’s surprise appearance was an emotional moment, with graduating senior Marcellis McQueen admitting he initially thought it was a joke. ‘You just see her coming from the back and I was in utter shock,’ he told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. ‘I jumped up and I was like, there’s no way this is happening.’

    Oprah was visibly moved by their stories, and the students expressed their gratitude not only to her but also to everyone who supported them. Since 1989, the Oprah Winfrey Endowed Scholars Program has helped approximately 800 Morehouse students graduate, providing crucial funding for tuition, fees, room, and board. The total scholarship amount each year is $25,000 per student.

    A Priceless Return on Investment

    As another year of academic achievement at HBCUs is celebrated, Oprah feels the profound impact of her investment. She emphasized that the students’ success is the true return, honoring not just her name but everyone who believed in them. It’s a powerful reminder of how investing in education can create a ripple effect of success for generations to come.

    What do you admire most about Oprah Winfrey’s commitment to education? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Chireal Jordan: Building A Chicago Hospitality Empire

    Imagine being the only Black general manager on Chicago’s entire north side. That was Chireal Jordan’s reality early in his career. It’s a challenging position that not only shaped his perspective but also fueled his ambition to build something truly his own. Today, Jordan is a co-founder of Machine Hospitality Group, a testament to his vision and resilience in one of America’s most competitive restaurant cities.

    From Lone GM to Hospitality Mogul

    Alongside his business partner Brian Galati, Jordan co-founded Machine Hospitality Group in 2012. For over a decade, they’ve been creating unique dining and drinking experiences in Chicago. Their portfolio includes popular spots like Headquarters Beercade and Machine Cocktail Bar in River North, and Dearly Beloved, a cocktail restaurant celebrated for its star drinks. And the expansion doesn’t stop there – a fourth location is set to open in Fulton Market this August.

    The initial vision was simple yet powerful: create establishments that they themselves would be proud to own and excited to visit. This guiding principle has helped them navigate the complexities of the industry, transforming from their earlier name, Capacity Bar Group, into the more defined Machine Hospitality Group. The name ‘Machine’ perfectly captures how Jordan and Galati, despite their different approaches, function seamlessly as a unit.

    Navigating a Tough Industry

    Breaking into the hospitality industry wasn’t easy. Jordan learned the ropes in large bar and nightclub groups, often feeling like he was thrown into the deep end. The most valuable lessons weren’t about mixology or service, but about the drive to build his own success. ‘I could not handle making someone else rich when I felt that I knew more than my predecessors,’ he explains. The risk of striking out on his own felt more manageable than staying under someone else’s ceiling.

    He quickly learned that success in this business hinges heavily on relationships, from the neighborhood level right up to the alderman. Each area operates differently, requiring a delicate touch to avoid jeopardizing opportunities. The leap to ownership brought a profound sense of humility. Jordan notes that the reality of submitting payroll, paying rent, and dealing with hidden taxes and fees keeps you grounded and focused on the fight.

    The Power of Partnership and Vision

    Jordan admits that he and Galati often disagree, but after 14 years, they’ve learned to harness these differences. ‘We always reach the same finality, however 99% of the time we offer differing paths,’ Jordan shares. He believes their contrasting instincts, combined with discipline, accountability, and laughter, make their partnership stronger. Crucially, their vision for the spaces they create has always been aligned. Jordan emphasizes his goal is to build inclusive environments where everyone feels comfortable, regardless of background.

    Having spent 25 years in the industry, Jordan has witnessed significant changes, particularly in representation. He notes the encouraging increase in Black ownership across Chicago in recent years, moving beyond just pockets on the South Side. ‘It is fantastic to see and more importantly, to be a part of,’ he says. He understands the profound importance of representation, often receiving heartfelt sentiments from individuals who are inspired by his journey.

    Looking Ahead

    With national ambitions that were put on hold by the pandemic, Machine Hospitality Group is looking towards future expansion. Despite the company’s growth, Jordan’s core advice remains the same. He acknowledges Chicago’s challenging restaurant landscape, stating, ‘This city is not pro-restaurant.’ His enduring message? ‘Do it with your heart because there are no easy days, no weekends. But you can do this and you’re never alone.’

    What inspires you most about Chireal Jordan’s entrepreneurial journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Atlanta News Station Gets $3M Gift

    In a remarkable show of support for local journalism, Atlanta’s public media station, WABE, has received a groundbreaking $3 million gift. This generous donation comes from the estate of Atlanta resident Richard “Rick” Bortle, who sadly passed away after battling esophageal cancer. This contribution marks the largest single gift in the station’s history.

    A Landmark Donation

    Bortle, originally from Florida, spent the last two decades of his life in the Atlanta area. His entire estate was bequeathed to WABE, making the 72-year-old a pivotal figure in the station’s future. WABE CEO Jennifer Dorian described the donation as a “historic commitment” that will significantly enhance their ability to produce in-depth and caring journalism.

    Dorian emphasized that Bortle’s gift will enable WABE to “invest in journalism that serves all parts of Atlanta, especially communities that deserve more consistent local coverage.” This timely contribution arrives as the station plans for long-term growth in local journalism and community programming. Dorian noted that such a substantial, unexpected gift is “uplifting,” especially considering typical individual donations range from $10,000 to $100,000.

    Strengthening Local Journalism

    The $3 million boost comes at a critical time, helping to offset potential impacts from changes in funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Notably, the Trump administration had previously cut approximately $1.9 million from WABE’s 2025 budget, which led to staff reductions and the closure of programs like the arts show “City Lights.” WABE had already reduced its workforce from 99 to 79 employees over the past 18 months.

    With this new funding, WABE plans to expand its investigative reporting, launch new digital storytelling projects, and provide additional training for early-career journalists. The gift will also bolster the station’s technology infrastructure and support audience engagement initiatives, aiming to bring reporters directly into neighborhoods for community conversations. For staff who have navigated significant changes in the newsroom, this donation signifies renewed confidence in WABE’s mission.

    A Commitment to Service

    In recent years, WABE has expanded its civic coverage, adding reporters dedicated to the Atlanta City Council, regional housing issues, and the local arts scene. Dorian shared with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the donation offers “the long-term stability needed to serve listeners with clarity and purpose.” This incredible act of generosity ensures that WABE can continue its vital work of informing and engaging the Atlanta community.

    What do you think about this incredible donation to WABE? Share your thoughts on the importance of supporting local journalism in the comments below!

  • Student Baker’s TikTok Success Story

    Imagine starting a business with just $100 in your bank account, juggling college classes, and working 30 hours a week. Sounds tough, right? Well, that was the reality for Joulenie Pierre, a college student who found her peace and passion in baking. What started as a therapeutic hobby has blossomed into a wildly successful bakery, Roll and Dough, thanks to the power of TikTok and a whole lot of hustle.

    From Therapy Baking to Entrepreneurship

    Pierre, who was double-majoring in economics and political science with dreams of law school, found herself stressed by her demanding schedule. Baking became her escape, her way to find clarity and stay grounded. “It was like my form of therapy essentially,” she shared on TikTok.

    With her business partner, Jovan, she launched Roll and Dough. The initial investment? A mere $100. Pierre even faced the challenge of waiting two months for financial aid to cover rent, all while investing in a stand mixer that broke after its first use. “I don’t care about taking a little risk because I know it’s always going to pay off,” she explained, highlighting her belief in manifestation and taking calculated chances.

    A Taste of Haitian Heritage

    Initially, Pierre was baking just a few cinnamon rolls a week for friends and classmates. But she soon expanded her offerings to include cookies, adding a special touch inspired by her Haitian roots. “It made my cookies transform to a whole different type of like palette that a lot of the other cookies that I was trying did not,” she said, excited to share the flavors she grew up with.

    Operating legally from her Florida kitchen, Pierre discovered she could sell online as long as she stayed within a certain revenue limit. Roll and Dough’s website now boasts a delicious menu featuring items like the original snickerdoodle, dark chocolate chip cookies with sea salt, almond croissants, and honey cornbread. Their signature cinnamon rolls come in a variety of exciting flavors, including apple pie, pumpkin chai, blueberry muffin, matcha, and dark cocoa s’mores.

    TikTok Fame and Farmer’s Market Success

    The visibility from TikTok has been a game-changer for Roll and Dough. Pierre’s business has amassed an impressive 195,300 followers and 4.8 million likes on the platform. This surge in demand led her to switch to online courses, allowing her to dedicate more time to baking daily. She’s even pursuing a degree in marketing and advertising to better scale her business, with plans to open a physical storefront.

    Most recently, Pierre took her treats to a local farmer’s market, where the response was phenomenal. She revealed that 300 cinnamon rolls sold out in just two hours! “Having this business right here literally has provided me the freedom that I want, not only the mental freedom, but financial freedom as well,” she expressed, thanking her supporters for being part of her journey.

    What do you think of Joulenie Pierre’s incredible entrepreneurial journey? Have you tried any of Roll and Dough’s treats? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

  • Melanin Beauty Awards 2025: Glow Deeper

    As the 2025 Melanin Beauty Awards approach, it’s the perfect moment to hit the pause button and focus on ourselves. This year’s theme, “Glow Deeper,” is a beautiful invitation to not only recognize the best in beauty but to also dive deep into self-love and inner connection. It’s a reminder that our beautifying rituals—whether a soothing facial, a relaxing massage, a flawless makeup application, or a nourishing hair treatment—do more than just enhance our appearance.

    The Power of Ritual and Connection

    These moments of self-care are grounding. They allow us to connect with ourselves, because true beauty, both inside and out, is deeply intertwined. Khadija Tudor, founder of Life Wellness Center in Brooklyn, emphasizes this connection: “If you feel grounded, if you feel centered, if you feel well—your skin is going to look good, your body is going to look good, you’ll love yourself more.”

    The women celebrated at the Melanin Beauty Awards are more than just entrepreneurs or artists; they are healers and community pillars who understand the profound significance of self-care and beauty. Toni Blackman, a hip-hop ambassador and wellness practitioner, beautifully articulates this ancestral connection: “The capacity for Black women to honor our beauty is ancestral. It’s in our DNA to adorn ourselves. We were raised to care for our hair, to care for our appearance, and we know how important it is to remind each other.”

    Finding Beauty Within and Without

    Nicole Grant, founder of The Healthy Hair Loft, creates a sanctuary where healthy hair, ritual, and community converge. For Grant, her Brooklyn salon is more than just a place for hair services; it’s a ministry. “I do believe that this is ministry for me, so it’s definitely more than just the hair,” she shares. “It’s about us as women and how we take care of ourselves.”

    Khadija Tudor’s journey to self-acceptance was hard-won. Growing up between Guyana and New York, she faced judgment for her dark skin tone. “My skin would be deep, beautiful dark chocolate. And I would go to school and be ridiculed and fight with people because my skin was dark,” Tudor recalls. “I didn’t believe that I was beautiful.” It was through massage that she discovered the healing power of touch, connecting her to her own beauty. “I encourage Black women to stand in the mirror and gaze at yourself and love yourself on purpose. It creates the beauty that you see, and then the world sees.”

    The Importance of Pausing

    Uplifting others is a core value for these inspiring women. Joanny Jimenez, founder of Everything Soulful, curates spaces for reflection, meditation, and renewal. Through sound healing, incense, and calming oils, her practices help soothe the nervous system. “It’s very important for us, people of color, to take the time for ourselves and take a pause,” Jimenez states. “Because when we stop and we pause and we breathe, that is power.”

    Jimenez further emphasizes the link between self-love and confidence: “Confidence is beauty. Self-love is the seed of where your confidence comes from, how you carry yourself, and the energy that you exude. If you feel good from the inside, it shows on the outside.”

    Toni Blackman’s own experience with burnout in 2016 led her to prioritize wellness. “I was entrenched in this strong Black woman syndrome. I suffered from it for most of my life,” she reflects. Embracing a holistic approach to her mind, body, and spirit, including dietary changes and increased activity, has been transformative. “Taking better care of myself has led me on a path to loving myself more deeply.” Blackman believes that celebrating and uplifting each other is a fundamental gift of Black women: “One of the gifts that Black women are here on Earth to do is to celebrate, and by God, we’d better start with celebrating each other first.”

    How do you practice self-love and incorporate beauty rituals into your life? Share your favorite ways to “Glow Deeper” in the comments below!