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Tag: Lifestyle

  • Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker Divorce After 11 Years

    Well, it’s a tough day in the world of reality TV! Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker, who have been a fixture on “Real Housewives of Atlanta” and a couple for over a decade, have announced they are divorcing. This news comes after 11 years of marriage, and it’s definitely a moment that has fans talking.

    A Difficult Decision Announced

    Kandi, 49, shared the personal news in an exclusive statement to People magazine on Friday, November 21st. She explained that after a lot of thought and prayer, she’s decided to move forward with the divorce. It’s clear this isn’t an easy step for her.

    “This is a difficult and emotional time, but my focus remains on protecting my peace, being the best mother I can be, and co-parenting with love and respect,” Kandi shared. She also mentioned she’s ready to embrace a new phase, focusing on her career, family, and personal growth. It sounds like she’s determined to navigate this transition with grace.

    A Look Back at Their Journey

    Many viewers first met Todd, 52, back in season four of “RHOA.” Their connection sparked when he was working behind the scenes during the show’s trip to Africa. They got engaged in 2013 and tied the knot the following April, officially starting their life together.

    Their family life was always a big part of their story on the show. They brought daughters from previous relationships into their union: Kandi’s daughter Riley, now 23, and Todd’s daughter Kaela, 29. Together, they welcomed two more children, son Ace in 2016 and daughter Blaze in 2019, creating a lively blended family.

    More Than Just a Couple: Business Partners

    Beyond their personal lives, Kandi and Todd were also a formidable business duo. Their journey into producing Broadway shows and other entertainment projects was a significant storyline. Audiences watched them build, collaborate, and sometimes clash as they pursued their ambitious ventures together.

    Their partnership extended to their restaurant empire, which also played a role in their on-screen narrative. It was clear they shared a passion for building and creating, making their professional collaboration a defining aspect of their public life.

    Recent Public Support

    Interestingly, Kandi publicly acknowledged Todd’s support just last week. While accepting the Wifetime Achievement Award at The Bravos during BravoCon 2025 in Las Vegas on November 14th, she thanked him onstage. She humorously noted that he had earned the award too, referencing the challenges they’d faced together.

    “To Todd, thank you for surviving the blogs, the shade, the rumors, the lies, the truth, the almost fights, the actual fights, the reunions… You earned this award too.” — Kandi Burruss

    This announcement marks the end of an era for fans who have followed their relationship and family life for years. As they both step into new chapters, the focus remains on their children and navigating this significant life change with respect.

    What are your thoughts on Kandi and Todd’s announcement? Share your reactions in the comments below!

  • Bethann Hardison: Fashion Icon, 83, Never Dated

    Get ready for a revelation from a true fashion legend! Bethann Hardison, an icon who has shaped the industry for decades, is sharing some surprising insights about her personal life. At 83 years old, she’s admitting something quite unexpected: she’s never actually ‘dated’ in the way most people understand it. How fascinating is that?

    A Unique Take on ‘Dating’

    During a special conversation on “IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson,” as part of a series promoting Obama’s new book, Hardison dropped this bombshell. Joined by actress Jane Fonda and designer Jenna Lyons, the fashion trailblazer declared, “I have never dated in my life. Dating is a very funny word.”

    Michelle Obama and Jenna Lyons were visibly surprised! When asked to explain what ‘dating’ means to her, Bethann clarified, “You know, you go to a bar and you sit there and meet somebody or you start going out.” She continued, explaining her perspective: “It seems like every time I ever met somebody, that was my boyfriend. So I never ‘dated.’” Talk about a different approach to relationships!

    Who’s Taking Care of Bethann?

    This naturally led to the question: does she have a boyfriend now? Bethann’s answer was as intriguing as her definition of dating. She replied, “I have people who take care of me in a very nice way.” When pressed for details, she hinted that these individuals are located all over the world, leaving Obama and Lyons even more astonished.

    She playfully laughed off questions about whether these men knew about each other, simply stating with a smile, “They’re not going anywhere.” It seems Bethann has cultivated a unique and supportive network of individuals who care for her.

    Too Cool for Dating Apps?

    And what about the modern dating scene? Bethann admitted she’s not on any dating apps. Her reason? She considers herself “too cool” for them, a sentiment the other women in the conversation readily agreed with. It’s hard to argue with someone who has such an established sense of self and style!

    Wisdom for Aging Gracefully

    Beyond her unconventional love life, the always-chic octogenarian shared some valuable advice on aging with grace. Her top tip? “You must maintain selfishness as you get older.” She believes this self-focus should start early, ideally around 13, but is crucial for older individuals.

    • Prioritize your own needs and well-being.
    • Embrace self-care as a lifelong practice.
    • Don’t be afraid to put yourself first, especially as you age.

    Another piece of advice, particularly for women, is to learn the art of traveling alone. Bethann explained that solo trips can be more rewarding, leading to more interesting encounters and a greater chance of meeting new people. It’s about embracing independence and openness to new experiences.

    A Legacy of Inclusion

    Bethann Hardison’s influence extends far beyond her personal life. As a pioneering force in fashion, she has consistently championed diversity and inclusion. From her days as one of the few prominent Black models in the 1970s to her work as an agent and advocate, she has been instrumental in changing casting standards globally.

    Her remarkable journey, activism, and enduring role as a truth-teller in the fashion world were beautifully captured in the 2023 documentary “Invisible Beauty,” which she co-directed. It’s a testament to her lasting impact and her commitment to making the industry more representative.

    What do you think about Bethann Hardison’s unique perspective on dating and aging? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Simone Biles Gets Real About Breast Augmentation Pain

    Simone Biles, the gymnastics legend we all know and admire, is getting incredibly candid about a recent personal journey: her breast augmentation surgery. She’s not holding back, sharing the raw truth about the procedure and, most notably, the intense recovery process that left her stunned.

    The Pain Was Real

    Forget what you heard about a quick and easy recovery! Biles took to TikTok to tell her followers, “Y’all lied.” She explained that contrary to what some people had told her, her recovery was far from pain-free. “This sh-t hurts so bad,” she admitted, contrasting her experience with others who claimed they were out shopping or at the movies shortly after their procedures.

    Simone revealed that she was so incapacitated initially that her husband, Jonathan Owens, had to physically help her get out of bed and even assist her with basic needs like going to the restroom. She emphasized that she took the full two weeks to recover, and she’s glad she did because her experience was genuinely rough, though thankfully without major complications.

    Details on the Procedure

    The surgery took place in June with Dr. Kriti Mohan in Houston. Biles opted for “310 high-profile, extra-filled, silicone” implants, placed underneath her muscle to achieve what she described as a “natural look.” However, her journey wasn’t without its initial hiccups.

    She admitted that at first, she wasn’t happy with how high the implants were sitting, even joking they looked like “aliens” and were “to my neck.” This led her to ask her doctor for a second surgery to adjust them, and now she’s happy with the results, calling them “perfect.”

    More Than Just Augmentation

    Interestingly, Biles revealed that the breast augmentation wasn’t her only procedure. She confirmed undergoing two other surgeries: a lower blepharoplasty to address severe eye bags and a procedure on her earlobe where an earring had been ripped out years ago. She clarified that she didn’t undergo surgery because she disliked her appearance, but rather because it was something she felt comfortable pursuing.

    Empowering Young Girls

    Biles hopes her transparency will empower young girls. She stressed that social media often presents an unrealistic portrayal of life and beauty. “Social media is not real, so that’s why I try to be as transparent as possible,” she stated. Her message is clear: young women have the right to make their own choices about their bodies without shame.

    Simone Biles’ honesty about her surgery and recovery is truly inspiring. What are your thoughts on her decision to share her experience so openly? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Sisterhood & New Movie: Atkins & Brown on ‘He Wasn’t Man Enough’

    Let’s talk about something we can all relate to: the incredible power of adult friendships. They don’t just shape who we become; sometimes, they’re the very thing that gets us through tough times. This powerful theme is at the heart of Lifetime’s new movie, ‘He Wasn’t Man Enough,’ which stars the amazing Essence Atkins and Yvette Nicole Brown alongside the legendary Toni Braxton.

    A Story Inspired by a Hit Song

    The film draws inspiration from Toni Braxton’s iconic hit song of the same name. Atkins shared how much she loved how the script expanded on the song’s themes, turning it into a compelling story about recognizing what truly matters – in this case, the enduring bond between friends. “I really love how it was brought to a story and made this great film about coming back around and recognizing what really matters. And in this particular instance, it is us. It is the friendship,” Atkins told TheGrio.

    The movie centers on three women in Atlanta: Mel (Braxton), a successful writer; Monica (Atkins); and Candy (Brown). Their once-strong friendship took a hit years ago due to life’s complexities, including love and a difficult breakup. The plot brings them back together when a new situation forces them to confront old wounds and the reasons they drifted apart.

    Sisterhood On and Off Screen

    For Atkins and Brown, bringing this dynamic to life felt incredibly natural, especially since they are real-life friends. They also had the pleasure of meeting Toni Braxton for the first time on set. “It was like playing with your friends for three or four weeks,” Brown remarked, adding that Braxton was a joy to work with.

    Both actresses hope the film highlights the essential, and sometimes complicated, nature of adult friendships. Atkins shared that her female friends have been the true “epic love story” of her life, playing a crucial role in her growth, grief, and celebrations. Brown echoed this sentiment, explaining how her own circle of friends provided vital support, especially when she first moved to Los Angeles.

    The Nuances of Maintaining Friendships

    The actresses emphasized that true sisterhood isn’t just about being there during the good times. It’s about actively choosing each other, even when things get messy or uncomfortable. Brown pointed out how societal expectations can sometimes lead women to neglect their friendships after finding a partner. “Women will meet the guy and then toss the girls that were ‘the Bridge Over Troubled Water’ aside,” she observed. “We have to honor those relationships and build a bridge when something goes terribly wrong.”

    Atkins shared a personal example of adapting her friendships to accommodate a friend’s new engagement. She’s consciously taken a step back to allow her friend’s fiancé to become the primary focus, ensuring he doesn’t feel like an outsider to her friend’s strong support network. It’s about making space and consciously integrating new relationships.

    These real-life insights into friendship dynamics are woven into the film’s plot, which sees the women navigating their reconnection amidst the men in their lives. Atkins described it as a “very fun and funny glimpse” that offers a “very real peek into what it’s like to really have a great sisterhood and the realities of that.”

    ‘He Wasn’t Man Enough’ premieres on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 8/7c on Lifetime. Don’t miss it!

    What does sisterhood mean to you? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

  • Candis Grace & UBS Honor Black Cultural Leaders

    Creatives, tastemakers, and industry leaders recently gathered in downtown Manhattan for an exclusive dinner experience called ‘The Toast, New York.’ Presented by entrepreneur Candis Grace and in partnership with UBS, the intimate event celebrated culture, excellence, and the lasting legacy of Black trailblazers.

    Honoring Trailblazers in Culture and Business

    Held at The Chica & Don on November 6th, the evening featured modern Latin American cuisine and drinks from notable Black-owned spirit brands, including D’usse, Gran Coramino, and Ja Rule’s Amber & Opal. The event specifically honored three individuals making significant impacts in their fields: Carlos King, CEO of Kingdom Reign Entertainment and a renowned reality TV producer; Cari Champion, a respected sports broadcast journalist; and Santi Miller, Head of Diverse Wealth Initiatives at UBS.

    Champion, accepting the ‘Champion of Women in Sports Award,’ spoke passionately about her commitment to advocating for Black and brown people and women. “I was at ESPN for 10 years, and now I’m at CNN, and I am unapologetic in the fact that my agenda is for Black and brown people [and] for women,” she stated. “It’s costly and sometimes scary, but I know that when it is all said and done, if you look in the history books, I’m doing it for the right reasons.”

    Stories of Legacy and Empowerment

    Carlos King, receiving the ‘Cultural Storyteller Award,’ reflected on his behind-the-scenes work, noting, “It is not every day that I get celebrated because, being behind the scenes, it’s our job to celebrate others.” The award was presented by former NFL player Wale Ogunleye, who now serves as Executive Director and Head of Sports and Entertainment at UBS.

    Santi Miller was honored with ‘The Legacy Builder Award.’ She shared how her upbringing as someone who often felt like an outsider, being born in Vietnam, fueled her passion for empowering diverse communities. “I was born in Vietnam, and I was always the other,” Miller explained. “The higher you climb, the lonelier it gets. And, guess what? The dots get smaller and the target gets bigger.” Her work at UBS focuses on expanding the firm’s presence in diverse markets, ensuring authenticity and relevance within the communities it serves.

    A Vibe of Community and Collaboration

    Beyond the honorees, ‘The Toast, New York’ brought together a notable group of activists, authors, and reality stars, fostering an atmosphere of community, collaboration, and Black excellence. Attendees included music executive Lenny S. Santiago, Real Housewives of Miami star Guerdy Abraira, media personality Bevy Smith, former VIBE Editor-in-Chief Datwon Thomas, and social justice advocate Tamika D. Mallory.

    Candis Grace, founder and CEO of The Brand Group, described the event’s vibe as intentionally “unorthodox, beautiful, sexy, and vibey,” moving away from anything “stuffy.” She aimed to create a space where guests could genuinely have fun and celebrate their peers. Jeffrey Morneau, founder of Jeffrey Morneau Atelier, who partnered with Grace on the event’s production, praised the collaboration, stating, “Candis’ vision and commitment to uplifting our community made this collaboration especially meaningful.”

    Grace also acknowledged UBS as an invaluable partner, highlighting their continued support for her annual events. BLACK ENTERPRISE was also recognized as a media partner, having previously honored Grace with the 2024 Business Disruptor Award. “Black Enterprise has been an integral part of my journey from the very beginning,” Grace said, expressing deep gratitude for their support in uplifting the community.

    What are your thoughts on events that celebrate Black excellence and cultural impact? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Hofstra’s First Black Rhodes Scholar Aims to Change Science

    In a world often filled with challenging news, especially for Black women navigating various industries, Hofstra University is celebrating a monumental achievement. Meet Resa Nelson, a biology major who has not only made history as the university’s first-ever Rhodes Scholar but is also poised to make significant contributions to the future of science.

    A Historic Achievement and a Vision for the Future

    Nelson is the first student from Hofstra to receive the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship, one of the most coveted academic honors globally. She also holds the distinction of being the second student from Antigua to earn this award. Nelson’s commitment is to tackle complex issues both on her home island and on a larger scale.

    Her groundbreaking research at Hofstra, with guidance from Biology Professor Dr. Javier Izquierdo, focused on converting seaweed into bio-fuel. Dr. Izquierdo himself expressed immense confidence in Nelson, stating, ‘I would not be surprised if we’re talking about Resa becoming not only a Rhodes Scholar, but the president of a corporation or a Nobel Prize winner at some point.’ He described her as someone dedicated to making positive global contributions.

    From Medicine to Discovery: A Passion for Science

    Initially, Nelson planned a career in medicine upon arriving at Hofstra. However, her path shifted as she discovered a profound love for ‘the act of discovery’ – the process of asking questions and uncovering answers. This passion has fueled her academic journey and her future aspirations.

    Nelson highlighted the critical need for representation, particularly for Afro-Caribbean individuals in fields like cell biology and research. She shared, ‘I know what it’s like to grow up where your options feel limited. Having someone believe in you can make all the difference.’ Her journey is an inspiration to many who may feel their options are constrained.

    Embracing Servant Leadership and Future Dreams

    While still exploring the specifics of her future endeavors, which have included studies in cancer immunology and neurobiology, Nelson is committed to embodying ‘servant leadership.’ This principle, taught by her father, reflects her belief that her research is a way to serve and contribute meaningfully to the world, much like Jesus served by washing feet.

    After graduating this spring, Nelson will head to the University of Oxford in the U.K. Her ambitious long-term goal is to develop ‘the first Afro-Caribbean stem cell line.’ She envisions taking a stem cell and transforming it into various forms that can be used as a diagnostic tool, a testament to her innovative spirit and dedication to advancing medical science.

    Resa Nelson’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of representation and the pursuit of knowledge. What inspires you most about her journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • D’Angelo Estate Launches Pancreatic Cancer Fund

    The music world is still reeling from the loss of the iconic D’Angelo, whose soulful voice captivated millions. In the wake of his passing, his estate is transforming grief into a powerful force for good by launching the D’Angelo Estate Pancreatic Cancer Fund. This new initiative, created in partnership with the Black Boy Joy Foundation, aims to honor the legendary artist’s fight and support others facing this devastating disease.

    Fighting a Formidable Disease

    Pancreatic cancer is notoriously one of the most lethal malignancies, with a survival rate hovering around a mere 13%. Jean-Claude Kalim, founder of the Black Boy Joy Foundation, highlighted the particular challenges of this cancer, noting its insidious onset and frequent late-stage diagnosis. The impact is even more pronounced in Black men and boys, who face the highest incidence and mortality rates.

    Studies reveal that Black men are up to 50% more likely than white men to develop pancreatic cancer. Compounding this, systemic inequities often lead to delayed diagnoses, limited treatment options, and poorer outcomes for these communities. D’Angelo himself passed away on October 14 after a private battle with the disease, underscoring the urgent need for greater awareness and research.

    A Mission for Awareness and Research

    The mission of the new fund is clear: to accelerate research, broaden public awareness, and provide crucial support to families affected by pancreatic cancer, especially those facing systemic neglect. Every dollar raised will be directed towards rigorously vetted research institutions and community-centered health initiatives focused on innovative science and equitable access to care.

    In true D’Angelo fashion, the fund is also issuing a call to action for his extended community – artists, creators, athletes, executives, labels, and fans – to join the cause. This collective effort aims to make tangible progress in the fight against this relentless disease.

    A Daughter’s Dedication

    Leading this vital initiative is D’Angelo’s daughter, Imani Archer. She has pledged to dedicate the rest of her life to supporting pancreatic cancer research and patient advocacy. “My dad was my inspiration, my hero, and a truly one-of-a-kind soul,” Imani shared in a statement.

    She continued, “Losing him to pancreatic cancer last month shattered our world… Yet even in this dark time for the Archer family, we hold on to one hope: that by sharing his story and fighting back, we can save at least one other family from losing someone they love as deeply as we loved him.” Through this work, she aims to ensure her father’s legacy continues to shine a light and uplift others.

    My father’s passing will not be in vain, and through this work, his light will continue to guide and uplift others. — Imani Archer

    The D’Angelo Estate Pancreatic Cancer Fund, in partnership with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, is a testament to the power of turning personal tragedy into a catalyst for change. It’s a way to ensure that D’Angelo’s influence extends beyond music, offering hope and support to countless families.

    How can we best support pancreatic cancer research and patient advocacy? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!

  • Tina Knowles Recalls Racist Derby Incident

    Imagine attending a prestigious event, dressed to the nines, ready to enjoy the spectacle, only to be met with blatant discrimination. That’s exactly what happened to Tina Knowles at the 2024 Kentucky Derby, and she’s opening up about the shocking experience in the new Peacock documentary, ‘High Horse: The Black Cowboy.’

    A ‘Wake-Up Call’ at the Derby

    The Kentucky Derby, a symbol of American horse racing, has a rich but often overlooked Black history, with Black jockeys dominating its early years. Today, it’s known for its high fashion and elite guests. However, Tina Knowles, 71, found that even in such a glamorous setting, racism is still present. She described the incident as a ‘very big wake-up call’ to the ‘closed-off culture’ she encountered.

    While standing in line for the red carpet, Knowles was approached by a handler who seemed flustered. When she inquired why she couldn’t go next, the handler stammered, implying they ‘needed…’ before Knowles herself finished the thought: ‘A white person?’ Moments later, a white couple who had been behind her were escorted past her down the carpet.

    Reclaiming Black Contributions

    Knowles stated in the documentary that the energy at the Derby was ‘racially charged.’ This experience highlights the documentary’s aim to reclaim the often-erased legacy of Black contributions to Western and Southern culture, including events like the Derby. ‘High Horse: The Black Cowboy,’ executive produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, seeks to shed light on these historical narratives.

    Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ and Country Music Roots

    During the same period, Knowles’s oldest daughter, Beyoncé, faced criticism for her album ‘Cowboy Carter,’ with some accusing her of ‘appropriating’ country music. Knowles firmly pushed back against these claims, emphasizing that the genre has deep Black roots. She believes that instead of rewriting history, artists like Beyoncé are simply ‘going back and straightening the story out’ by highlighting these origins.

    The documentary ‘High Horse: The Black Cowboy’ is currently streaming on Peacock, offering a deeper look into the Black cowboy legacy and the cultural forces that have shaped it.

    Have you experienced or witnessed racism in unexpected places? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

  • Wendy Williams: Guardian Punishing Her?

    Just days after receiving positive health news, Wendy Williams is speaking out about her current living situation, claiming her court-appointed guardian is actively preventing her from seeing friends. Williams, who has been under guardianship for the past three years, alleges this restriction is a form of punishment.

    A Missed Dinner and Allegations of Control

    Sources close to the former talk show host revealed that Williams was supposed to have dinner with friends on Wednesday, November 19th, to celebrate neurologists clearing her of a previous frontotemporal dementia diagnosis. However, the outing never happened because Williams couldn’t reach her bodyguard, leading her to suspect her guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, had dismissed him.

    This isn’t the first time Morrissey has allegedly taken such action. According to an unnamed source, the guardian has fired previous bodyguards and generally doesn’t keep Williams “in the loop” about her own arrangements. “She’s being punished. What should’ve been a safeguard became a system of control that limited her voice, her choices, and her dignity,” stated Joe Tacopina, Williams’ power of attorney, per Page Six.

    Williams’s Previous Statements on Guardianship

    Williams has been residing in the memory unit of a luxury living facility, where leaving requires permission from Morrissey, the presence of a bodyguard, or a visit from her niece, Alex Finnie. Earlier this year, Williams described her conservatorship as “emotional abuse” in a phone interview with The Breakfast Club. She stated, “I am not cognitively impaired. But I feel like I am in prison. This system is broken.”

    Despite these restrictions, Williams has reportedly made efforts to escape the facility by frequenting restaurants and attending church to maintain some sense of normalcy and connection. However, her power of attorney argues that these outings don’t equate to true protection, suggesting the system has become a “system of control.”

    Legal Efforts to End Guardianship

    In light of the recent health updates and Williams’s ongoing concerns, her legal team has reportedly filed a motion requesting a hearing to terminate the guardianship. If this request is denied, they are prepared to demand a jury trial in an effort to restore Williams’s freedom and autonomy. The situation highlights the complex and often contentious nature of legal guardianships, particularly when the individual under guardianship expresses feelings of being controlled rather than protected.

    What are your thoughts on Wendy Williams’s claims about her guardian? Do you think the guardianship is serving her best interests? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • 6 Black-Owned Cafés for Your Matcha Fix

    There’s a new vibe taking over, and it’s all about embracing a more polished, mindful aesthetic. Young men are shifting from flashy streetwear to sophisticated quarter-zip sweatshirts, and with this ‘YN to YG’ transition comes a new daily essential: matcha. This vibrant green tea isn’t just a trendy drink; it’s associated with mental clarity, a unique taste, and a certain social status. While matcha is popping up everywhere, Black-owned establishments are offering something extra special – unique experiences that blend community, culture, and wellness with every sip.

    More Than Just a Drink: Building Community

    These aren’t just places to grab a beverage; they’re vibrant community hubs. From Compton to Beacon, these cafés are fostering wellness initiatives and showcasing the incredible viability of Black entrepreneurship. So, if you’re looking to support Black businesses, enjoy a delicious matcha, and perhaps even update your wardrobe with some quarter-zip drip, these spots are for you.

    Gotcha Matcha & Espresso (Charlotte, NC)

    Founded by Eric “Braek Haven” Hicklen Jr., Gotcha Matcha & Espresso in Uptown Charlotte is a haven for matcha lovers. They boast over 12 matcha latte options, including unique flavors like Biscoff and ube. After starting as a pop-up, Gotcha found its permanent home in 2024, focusing on quality ceremonial-grade matcha and cultivating a dedicated matcha culture in the city.

    Kinfolx (Oakland, CA)

    More than just a coffee shop, Kinfolx in Oakland is a wine bar and a vital community space. Founders Creighton Davis and Akintunde Ahmad created Kinfolx to build a cultural and wellness-focused hub for Black creatives and their community. Their Matcha Latte, made with premium Japanese matcha, is a must-try.

    HustleBlendz Coffee (Fort Worth, TX)

    Patrice Angwenyi’s HustleBlendz Coffee Café in Fort Worth is a shining example of Black-owned businesses diversifying tea culture. Beyond standard coffee, they offer specialty drinks, including delicious matcha options. It’s a testament to the growing movement of Black entrepreneurs expanding their offerings.

    Matcha Thomas (Beacon, NY)

    This Black- and family-owned wellness teahouse in Beacon, New York, is dedicated to all things matcha. Matcha Thomas offers vegan and gluten-free iced matcha lattes, strawberry milk matcha boba, and more. Since opening on May 21, 2021, they’ve prioritized wellness accessibility and social impact.

    Soul Blends Coffee Roasters (West Oakland, CA)

    Justice Chambers and Jenna Garrett are the forces behind Soul Blends Coffee Roasters. This specialty coffee business, located in West Oakland, uniquely blends African-origin coffee beans with tea traditions. Born during the pandemic, they now operate through pop-up carts and community projects, using coffee and tea as a platform to champion Black entrepreneurship in a traditionally non-diverse industry.

    404 Coffee (Atlanta, GA)

    In Atlanta’s booming coffee scene, Kelli Jones’s 404 Coffee stands out. This specialty café serves innovative drinks like their Coconut Matcha with Strawberry Sweet Cream. As one of many Black-owned cafés in the area, 404 Coffee appeals to young adults seeking familiar flavors with a modern, exciting twist.

    Which of these Black-owned cafés will you be visiting first for your matcha fix? Let us know in the comments!